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
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey's 17 Mile Drive Guided Electric Bike Tour, 3 hr
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
"Raven the manager was great and helpful"
Reviewed on 22 May, 2026
The Monterey Hotel
"Very good location for enjoying Old Town Monterey."
Reviewed on 22 May, 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
"Walking distance to downtown Monterey with ample parking and reasonable rates. Great cafe for breakfast across the street as well as a great Thai restaurant."
Reviewed on 21 May, 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
"The above ground parking lot is awkward. But the underground parking garage is spacious, though there's some water along one wall. The staff was nice. The front desk is staffed 24 hours. The lobby area offers filtered cold/hot water and coffee, teas, and hot cocoa. We happened to get an ADA room. ..."
Reviewed on 21 May, 2026
Hotel Pacific
"Get a room off the street, very noisy on the street."
Reviewed on 21 May, 2026
Monterey Marriott
"And Too expensive for this outdated place"
Reviewed on 11 May, 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 Perry House or Monterey State Historic Park 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 Golden State Theatre 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.
