Downtown Monterey Travel Guide
Monterey
Visit Downtown Monterey
Popular places to visit
Golden State Theatre
Sit back, relax and enjoy the show at Monterey’s legendary movie palace, which has been delighting theatergoers since 1926.
Dennis the Menace Playground
Set up a picnic on the tranquil shore of Lake El Estero and let the kids run free in this sandy playground.
Monterey State Historic Park
Find out about California’s Spanish, Mexican and American past with a tour of this park’s restored historical houses and museums.
Maritime Museum
Follow the story of this fascinating area from the first inhabitants 6000 years ago, to the days of Cannery Row and beyond.
San Carlos Cathedral
Admire ecclesiastical relics on display in the heritage center to learn about this cathedral, which is California’s oldest stone building.
Monterey Convention Center
Learn about the events happening in Monterey Convention Center during your trip to Monterey. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.
Things to do
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
staff were polite but the bathtub was too dirty to take a bath in and the power in our room kept coming on and off. Not as nice as I expected.
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Room was very old and carpet was
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Room was small, but clean and cozy. I love the Spanish inspired details. There is ample parking space, pool, and a patch of grass to let your dog do its business. The inhouse restaurant was very lovely! It was very cozy, especially at night. They have a fireplace and some good music.
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2026
Hotel Pacific
Was very disappointed by the general upkeep and cleanliness of the facility. Our junior suite was nicely laid out, but given them out of dust all over the room as well as the dirty Q-tips. I was a little disgusted to say the least. I also had specifically asked to have a quieter room as I was no ...
Reviewed on 25 Feb 2026
Monterey Marriott
Great location and perfect for a short stay. We stayed for one night and really appreciated how close it was to everything. Fisherman’s Wharf is nearby, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium is just a short drive away. There are plenty of things to do in the surrounding area, with restaurants, shops, and ...
Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
Room was nice and as expected, although shower faucets were different than usual. The staff was really nice and welcoming! Great location for easy access to the downtown and restaurants.
Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026
Check Downtown Monterey hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Monterey
Old Monterey
Old Monterey is a destination visitors seek out for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium. You might also want to check out attractions like Waterfront or Perry House while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Oak Grove
While Oak Grove may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Dennis the Menace Playground.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
Lighthouse District
Lighthouse District is well-regarded for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium, and you might also want to make a stop by Cannery Row, a top sight in the neighbourhood.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Munras Avenue and Waterfront are some notable places to visit nearby.
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater are top sights worth seeing.
