14. Check out this highly-rated walking tour of Cannery Row, the historic (and picturesque) Monterey waterfront. With her husband Kishore, she has done numerous road trips in the state in every season. I am visiting Monterey next week and this is extremely helpful. A post shared by S A R A H | Business Mentor (@sarahmartignoni). Until now, the Custom House performs the same function, and its days are virtually the same as they would have been in the 1840s. From LA, the drive to Monterey is about 5 hours by the highway, so plan on a relaxing weekend getaway to the Monterey Peninsula from the LA area. Photo: Christina Pfeiffer. Blubber was used as natural oil for maps or machine lubrication. In the Colton Hall Museum, you can view a re-creation of the meeting room where this historic event took place. The 17-Mile Drive, situated on the Monterey Peninsulas southern side, is one of the most rewarding activities that you can take at your own pace. Looking for more California travel inspiration? Asilomar State Beach is especially beautiful at sunset. Book this tour now! Please try again. Rock Climbing See how high you can take the fun with a rock climbing trip. Some of the aquariums displays are particularly special, as it is one of the only in the world to host fish like the yellowfin tuna, sunfish, and Bluefin tuna. 4. A tour to explore marine life sounds fine if you are listing what things to do in Monterey this weekend. If one is being offered when you visit, dont miss the opportunity to go! The building itself was constructed as a family home by David Wight, a Scottish adventurer, in 1847, but after they left for the gold fields of California, it was left alone. Pelicans and heronsplus countless fish, sharks, crabs, sea lions, and otterscall the Elkhorn Slough home, so have your camera ready at all times to snap a once-in-a-lifetime picture. In season, the aquarium does get crowded during the day, especially on weekends. The park is located a short drive south of Monterey, along scenic California Highway 1. you'll be introduced to the areas history in a very unique way. Address: Cannery Row & Wave Streets, Monterey, CA 93940, United States. Looking for a car rental for your Monterey getaway? You can pick up the trail at Cannery Row, and walk it to its southern end in Pacific Grove and back, for a total of about 3 miles. 1. Follow the waterfront to find Old Fishermans Wharf, another iconic Monterey destination. Simply love the old comic strip character of Dennis the Menace? Book this tour now! A post shared by Domme (@sickindividualsdesign). Enjoying a great meal with an incredible view is one of the best things to do in Monterey at night. This pristine beach is quite a sight to behold. Kayaking the bay is one of the top Monterey activities visitors (and locals!) Starting at the Sunset Drive gate in Pacific Grove, the drive takes you past Spanish Bay to provide stunning vistas of beaches, the ocean, and golf courses, before finishing up in Carmel. Keep walking and youll find 20 oceanfront restaurants, a Ghirardelli store, art galleries, jewelry stores, and many boutiques to browse. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is one of the more famous things to see in the city. Or visit Old Fishermans Grotto, a family-run seafood joint operating since 1950, whose clam chowder is voted best in town year after year. Near the Southern Pacific Railway and, in fact, taking its very route the Coastal Recreational Trail hugs, as its name suggests, the coastline. Whether this is your first time in the city or a repeat visit, going to a museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Monterey. 1 Main St, Salinas, California 93901. The River Road Wine Trail stretches along the Santa Lucia Highlands, offering spectacular views of the fertile Salinas Valley below. No one knows for sure if Robert Louis Stevenson found his inspiration for Treasure Island while staying at the two-story rooming house on the Monterey peninsula, but I like to think so. In 1846, what was known at the time as Alta California was occupied by America. Our favorite place to visit. Its a great way to experience this beautiful stretch of coast. Still, that just makes it even more worthy of being on your list of what to see with all its activities! Some links on this page may be affiliate links. A walking tour is a great way to learn about the history of a city, and Monterey has a lot of history. In 1935, some modern amenities were added, like concrete floors and systems for ventilation and heating. There is also a Jazz Legends Gala where the Jazz Legends Award is presented to an influential artist of the genre each year. Today, visitors can walk through the structure and see the conditions the original prisoners endured. If youre into history, or your kids are studying Californias beginnings as a state, Colton Hall Museum is the place to visit. The Monterey Jazz Festival is an annual music festival held in Monterey, California, United States. The Larkin House, on Calle Principal, is both a National and California Historic Landmark. Californias First Theatre was the first place to stage public performances at the birth of the state, but the temptation of the Gold Rush soon lured away the performers. In La Mirada, youll walk through a gorgeous mansion with a delightful rose garden set on beautiful grounds. Every table offers stunning views of the ocean and the outdoor patio is heated. There are separate sections for cyclists and pedestrians, which makes for an easier ride. Loulous Griddle in the Middle, located on the pier, is a tiny place, but the food will have you waiting to return. If you enjoy sweet treats, stop in for a pastry (or three!). Pools and tanks show off some unique and fascinating marine animals and plants in accessible ways. In the springtime, the six miles of waterways are a nursery for seal and otter pups. Enjoy your visit! The former capital of Alta California has introduced plenty of firsts to the states history: The first theater, public library, public school, printing press, and newspaper all hail from 19th-century Monterey. Your first hand insights are valuable and the photographs are beautiful. On sunny weekends, youll need to get to the parking lot early because this place draws serious crowds. Feast at the Steinbeck House in Salinas, Fans of California author John Steinbeck, rejoice. 28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Golden Colorado. If you like getting some exercise in the great outdoors or just want a bit of a walk, the Coastal Recreation Trail is a great way to do so. During this tour, you ride in a small car. Point Lobos is just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea along scenic Highway 1. A year after the City of Monterey was founded by Father Junpero Serra and Don Gaspar de Portol in 1770, Father Serra moved his mission to Carmel. There is even a steam engine that is authentic from Southern Pacific, dating back to 1924. 1. The Cannery Row Antique Mall on Wave Street is worth a visit if you enjoy browsing old treasures. Carmel-by-the-Sea has plenty of tasting rooms located downtown, so you can sip and stroll around town. Many of these structures date back to the early years of the 19th century and are individually among the top most fun Monterey attractions in themselves. Our recommended businesses are top-quality and are committed to their communities. At the time of writing, general adult admission is $15.00. Its famous for its unorthodox, striking rock formations and granite cliffs that are spread throughout the oceanside, each one dramatic and dissonant to the many cute animals that live in its vicinity. The hotel features an onsite spa, a pool, and a childrens club. I never get tired of this city of fresh ocean breezes, amazing food, and a surprise around every corner. Two guest passes to the Monterey Bay Aquarium are provided for use during your stay. The mission is recognized as both the oldest stone building and the first cathedral in California. Other businesses and restaurants followed, and, after a mishap in 1923, Old Fishermans Wharf was rebuilt stronger and longer. With breathtaking coastal views, the center is a spectacular venue for special events, conventions, and trade shows in downtown. 9. 12 Epic Things To Do In Northern California [Map Included] For a more active way to experience this scenic drive, check out this popular 3-hour electric bike tour from Pacific Grove. Spouts are more visible on bright calm days. Its truly a whimsical and beautiful experience, with relaxing shorelines, tide pools that shimmer in the sun, majestic canyons, wildlife-filled seamounts, and forests of lush kelp. Select an address . Fortunately, many of its old buildings have been preserved and you can tour them at Monterey State Historic Park. Take a tour of the Point Sur Lighthouse in Big Sur to learn about its intriguing and spooky past. Take a trip to the unique Pinnacles National Park to explore talus caves and see towering rock spires formed by volcanic eruptions. You will likely see wildflowers along the roadsides and by trails, no matter where in Monterey you stroll. Located in the heart of Cannery Row, McAbee Beach is a small but pleasant spot to sit and watch the kayakers in the bay. The Spanish built the Presidio, and the Mission de San Carlos Borromeo de Monterey. It opened its doors in 1984 as a public aquarium and now boasts over 600 different flora and fauna species, mostly native to California. Casa del Oro, known also as the Joseph Boston Store, was one of the citys first-ever general stores. ). In 1854, the large building, stout in shape and intimidating in its stone appearance, was set up beside Colton Hall. Carmel protects its traditions, rejecting modern developments in favor of its traditional architecture. History buffs shouldnt miss out on visiting Colton Hall, the location where California became Americas 31st state. British ships were already there, interested in the state, and Sloat knew he had to act now if he wanted to press any advantage at all. You'll hike through one of the three remaining natural stands of Monterey Pine, see a waterfall and, in springtime, plenty of colorful California wildflowers. The current structure dates from the late 18th century, and is the oldest stone building in the state. Both beginner and advanced climbers are bound to enjoy conquering the cool rock formations of Pinnacles National Park. Its a long road that you can drive through in order to view some of the most beautiful landscape views that the city and state have to offer. The structure was built by Thomas O. Larkin, the Consul of America to what was, at the time, Alta California, in 1845. Located a little over 230 miles from here is the beautiful city of Santa Barbara. For more details, refer to our disclosure. But in order to fully appreciate the monument at all, you need to know a little bit about the person it was built for: Commodore John Drake Sloat. The chapel was used primarily by soldiers that remained to guard the newly created Spanish Presidio. Monterey is one of Californias oldest cities and was a capital city under Spanish, Mexican, and US military rule. Once it reopens, swing by to observe sunfish, huge bluefin tuna, and yellowfin tunafound in only a select number of aquariums worldwide. Check out Discover Cars! La Mirada was an adobe during Mexican rule, and later rebuilt as an elegant home. The Golden State is a world-renowned travel destination, and our articles will hopefully inspire you to explore it in depth. ", 1. Springtime is the best time for wildflowers and walks at Point Lobos. Monterey Bay Aquarium 2. During the day, this former sardine canning district is busy with family fun activities, shopping, and dining. The International Whaling Commission attempted to moderate the industry but ultimately failed, and in 1986, commercial whaling was halted. There are many activities you can partake in here, from taking photographs to observing nature and from scuba diving to getting a little exercise on one of its 13 trails, each one with different levels of difficulty to get through. 9. Hi! Mimi founded The Atlas Heart to create a community of travelers inspired to see the world. Fin whales and minke whales are less common. The collection includes works by artists such as Jules Tavernier and Raymond Dabb Yelland. There are pullouts where you can stop to admire the views and take photos. Im excited to share my favorite spots so you can discover Monterey for yourself! Old Fishermans Wharf has a rich history, and its one of the top places to visit in Monterey. If you are looking for weekend road trip getaways from San Diego. Dennis the Menace Playground was designed by the creator of the beloved comic book character, Dennis the Menace. Address: Monterey County Fairgrounds. Check out what's happening this weekend in Monterey below, and download our full year of events . Upon his return, the seeds were dispersed and planted all around the country. Watch the sun rise at Lovers Point Park, and enjoy Lovers Point Beach, one of. If you can find your way out, the Cannery Row venue also has a Lazer Challenge room, where you can compete for the lowest time through the obstacle course. For centuries, it has sat 361 feet over the water, dutifully watching over the seas of Monterey and beyond. Featuring several play structures, large slides, a climbing wall, a maze, and a giant adventure ship, this fun attraction will satisfy both the young and young at heart. Thanks so much for this comprehensive guide! Monterey has a great cycle track following the path of the Old Southern Pacific Railway. Address:500 Church St, Monterey, CA 93940, United States. Winter is Californias rainy season, but its also the time when you can catch the monarchs at Pacific Grove. The two-hour Original Monterey Walking Tour takes you down Cannery Row, and back to the days of sardine fishing. Stunning views of the beloved comic book character, Dennis the Menace Domme ( @ )! 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