Downtown Monterey
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 at 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
Scenic 17-Mile Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Monterey's 17 Mile Drive Guided Electric Bike Tour, 3 hr
Explore Big Sur: Self-Guided Audio Tour from Monterey or Morro Bay
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Good location, friendly staff
Reviewed on Apr 26, 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Parking was easy and right down the street. The coffee was very good!!
Reviewed on Apr 25, 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Overall an amazing experience the property is gorgeous how clean it is how professional the staff is A perfect location I highly recommend staying here
Reviewed on Apr 25, 2026
Hotel Pacific
Loved the size of the room, and the fireplace was the bomb!
Reviewed on Apr 27, 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
Parking was easy and room was clean
Reviewed on Apr 27, 2026
Monterey Marriott
The room was clean, the staff really REALLT friendly and helpful! The hotel was perfect to stay for the Big Sur marathon. Hydration stations in the hallways, staff cleaning constantly, friendly helpful staff. Just wish the property had some refurbishing upgrades to make it nicer. The gym was doable ...
Reviewed on Apr 27, 2026
Check Downtown Monterey hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Monterey
Old Monterey
Old Monterey is a destination visitors seek out for is 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 neighborhood.
Oak Grove
While there might not be top attractions in Oak Grove, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Monterey State Beach.
Alta Mesa
If you're spending some time in Alta Mesa, Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center are top sights worth seeing.
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 neighborhood.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Munras Avenue and Waterfront.
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater are top sights worth seeing.
