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.
San Carlos Cathedral
Admire ecclesiastical relics on display in the heritage center to learn about this cathedral, which is California’s oldest stone building.
Maritime Museum
Follow the story of this fascinating area from the first inhabitants 6000 years ago, to the days of Cannery Row and beyond.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Hotel was perfect. We celebrated anniversary without kids and it was perfect!
Reviewed on 21 Oct 2025
The Monterey Hotel
Staff was super pleasant, and as always, i enjoyed my stay.
Reviewed on 24 Oct 2025
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
This gem is one of the most beautiful boutique hotels! Very accommodating and accessible to surrounding activities
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
The Stevenson Monterey
Friendly Staff.
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
Colton Inn
Clean room and quiet place I woul recommend to my family relatives and friends 👍👍👍
Reviewed on 19 Oct 2025
Monterey Marriott
One of the best breakfast we ever had
Reviewed on 24 Oct 2025
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 Monterey State Historic Park 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 Monterey State Beach.
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.
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row are top sights worth seeing.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Munras Avenue are some notable places to visit nearby.
