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.
Cannery Row
Luxury, leisure and nature come together at this historic sardine-canning district, which is one of Monterey’s most acclaimed recreational areas.
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
All staff was very courteous. Waiters on the restaurant as well. Everything I ate was delicious.
Reviewed on 20 Feb 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Charming older hotel. Clean room, very nice staff, great location.
Reviewed on 21 Feb 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
I have always stayed at this property when visiting Monterey. Upon check in they had no power due to a transformer that blew. We had to wait about 4 hours to have power which set us back since we couldn’t get ready for dinner after a 6 hour drive. Outlets not working, no lights, no WiFi Pretty shocked ...
Reviewed on 20 Feb 2026
Hotel Pacific
Perfect as always! Love it!
Reviewed on 20 Feb 2026
Monterey Marriott
Wonderful location and accommodation
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
Cleaned room, quiet neighborhood, close to places to go to eat and drinks
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
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.
