Downtown Monterey Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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 in Monterey Convention Center during your trip to Monterey. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.
Activities
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Our pick of the best Downtown Monterey Hotel Deals
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Good location, friendly staff
Reviewed on 26 Apr 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Location is excellent. Cleanliness of room was not great. Rooms need a thorough cleaning and refresh. Room furniture is all nicked up. There was no room to put a toiletry bag in the bathroom.
Reviewed on 27 Apr 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 25 Apr 2026
Hotel Pacific
The Stevenson Monterey
Parking was okay , although the garage is a bit tight if you have a larger vehicle. Place as clean and the location is very good
Reviewed on 27 Apr 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 27 Apr 2026
Check Downtown Monterey hotel availability
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 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.
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.
