Things to do in Oldtown Salinas

Activities, attractions and tours

National Steinbeck Center which includes interior views
National Steinbeck Center featuring signage
National Steinbeck Center featuring signage, interior views and modern architecture
National Steinbeck Center showing interior views and signage
National Steinbeck Center featuring signage and interior views
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Top places to visit

1. Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases more than 35,000 animals and plants across 550 species. You’ll discover all kinds of local wildlife here, including fish of all sizes, invertebrates, mammals and plants.
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Monterey Bay Aquarium showing interior views and marine life

2. 17-Mile Drive

Gaze at dazzling mansions and barking sea lions along 17-Mile Drive, a privately owned stretch of road that winds between Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. This exclusive seafront drive hugs the wild, craggy coastline, passing great cypress trees, rocky coves, sandy beaches and undulating golf courses.
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17-Mile Drive showing rugged coastline and a sandy beach

3. Cannery Row

Discover the leisure attractions along the historic street of Cannery Row. Once a thriving and rather smelly sardine-canning district, today this strip of coast offers fun for the whole family. Peruse the specialty shops and art galleries, dine in seafood restaurants, take the kids to Monterey Bay Aquarium and enjoy watersports in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
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Cannery Row which includes a beach as well as a small group of people

4. Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach is a long stretch of soft, white sand in Carmel, a picture-perfect town just 15 minutes’ drive south from Monterey. Steady swells make this a popular destination with surfers, swimmers and kayakers. Rent a kayak and paddle out across the kelp beds. Bring a wetsuit, as the water is often cold except in the heat of summer.
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Carmel Beach showing landscape views and a beach as well as an individual femail

5. National Steinbeck Center

John Steinbeck was a celebrated American novelist and winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. The National Steinbeck Center celebrates his work through photos, artifacts, interactive exhibits and the author’s personal belongings. It also explores the area’s agricultural history, which was a major influence on Steinbeck’s work.
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Immerse yourself in the life, times and works of legendary American novelist John Steinbeck through memorabilia, photos, journals and film.

What to do in Oldtown Salinas

Popular places to visit

National Steinbeck Center

National Steinbeck Center

Immerse yourself in the life, times and works of legendary American novelist John Steinbeck through memorabilia, photos, journals and film.

National Steinbeck Center
Toro County Park

Toro County Park

Explore the lovely green spaces of Toro County Park and enjoy the biking trails in Salinas. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.

Toro County Park

Salinas Sports Complex

Catch an event at Salinas Sports Complex, and enjoy other activities in Salinas such as golfing. Wander the marina and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Salinas Sports Complex

California Rodeo Grounds

Catch an event at California Rodeo Grounds, and enjoy other activities in Salinas such as golfing. Wander the marina and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

California Rodeo Grounds

Northridge Mall

During your trip to Salinas, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Northridge Mall. Wander the marina and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Northridge Mall

Monterey Zoo

See the exotic and native animals who call Monterey Zoo home during your travels in Salinas. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Monterey Zoo

Steinbeck House

You can find out about the history of Salinas with a stop at Steinbeck House. Wander the marina and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Steinbeck House

The Farm

Learn about the local history of Salinas with a stop at The Farm. Amble around this family-friendly area's marina or attend a sporting event.

The Farm

Natividad Hospital

Though Natividad Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Salinas while you are here.

Natividad Hospital

Frequently asked questions

Is Oldtown Salinas worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor activities and history, there are plenty of fun things to do in Oldtown Salinas. Don't forget to discover the area's blend of cool attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Oldtown Salinas?
When you've checked off major attractions like Salinas Valley Model Railroad Museum, spend some time enjoying the food and retail options in Oldtown Salinas.
What is the top tourist attraction in Oldtown Salinas?
Boronda Adobe History Center is rated the top tourist attraction near Oldtown Salinas, so don't leave without checking it out.
Is three days enough to stay in Oldtown Salinas?
You'll have plenty of time to check out Boronda Adobe History Center, Steinbeck House and other popular attractions around the area when you plan a three-day break in Oldtown Salinas.
Is Oldtown Salinas a walkable neighborhood?
That depends on the things you want to experience in and around Oldtown Salinas. Several top attractions, including Boronda Adobe History Center and Steinbeck House are easily accessible on foot. In the mood for a stroll to some other nearby neighborhoods? Chinatown is 2 kilometers from Oldtown Salinas, while Boronda is 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Oldtown Salinas with kids?
If you're searching for sights and tours for all ages, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Oldtown Salinas with kids.

What to do in Oldtown Salinas for adults?
Steinbeck House is one of the best things to do in Oldtown Salinas. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Oldtown Salinas?
You won't have to go out of your way to find free things to do in Oldtown Salinas. If you ask a local tour guide and they'll have suggestions for attractions you can enjoy for nothing. One of the best free options to check out is Boronda Adobe History Center.