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.
San Carlos Cathedral
Admire ecclesiastical relics on display in the heritage center to learn about this cathedral, which is California’s oldest stone building.
Maritime Museum
Follow the story of this fascinating area from the first inhabitants 6000 years ago, to the days of Cannery Row and beyond.
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.
Things to do
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Our room was located near the supply area so every morning the housekeeping staff would gather by our door and talk very loudly.
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Pro: Staff was amazing, location and parking were excellent, price was great as well Con: windows so thin that it felt like the seagulls and people on the steet were IN my room on the top floor. My friend in the room next door said the same. Very hard to sleep past 5am.
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Not used
Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
Room was clean, staff was helpful but AC was hard to control. Location was good, close to wharf, walkable to restaurants and tourist sites. Staff was friendly and helped resolve problems with the electric sockets in bathroom.
Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026
Hotel Pacific
The room and location of the hotel was perfect, no need to drive around and look for parking spots as we were able to walk everywhere. The room was so nice and bathroom was very spacious
Reviewed on 10 Apr 2026
Monterey Marriott
We had a wonderful stay at the Monterey Marriott from Friday, March 13 through Monday, March 16. From the moment we arrived, the staff was professional, welcoming, and consistently courteous throughout our entire visit. Our room was very clean and well-maintained, which immediately made us feel comfortable. ...
Reviewed on 19 Mar 2026
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.
