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: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
Our pick of the best Downtown Monterey Hotel Deals
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Good staff
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Staff was friendly and very efficient!
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Location is ideal. Quiet and close to town by walking.
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
Hotel Pacific
Loved!
Reviewed on 20 Jan 2026
Monterey Marriott
Great location and staff. Very comfortable hotel right in the center of downtown Monterey.
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
Yes room Was clean for the most part. We did notice some cobwebs above the tv, near the ceiling. So happy we had a refrigerator and a coffee machine, as well. Closet space and drawers in the room were perfect size too.
Reviewed on 20 Jan 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 Colton Hall Museum 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 Del Monte Golf Course.
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, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Munras Avenue are some notable places to visit nearby.
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row are top sights worth seeing.
