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: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California
Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Clean room!
Reviewed on 4 Jan, 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Room was much smaller than expected but overall a nice stay.
Reviewed on 2 Jan, 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
The room was clean. The shower was not great, it was difficult to control the temp and stream was weak.
Reviewed on 1 Jan, 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
Clean room. Very helpful, courteous staff. Adjacent to downtown. Several blocks to the pier.
Reviewed on 1 Jan, 2026
Hotel Pacific
We had a nice stay....the room was wonderful. The only downside was being on the 4th floor with no elevator service!!
Reviewed on 2 Jan, 2026
Monterey Marriott
Only spend one night there and no experience of using breakfast and bar. The location is good and convenient for walking to old fisherman’s wharf and downtown, driving to aquarium only 4mins away.
Reviewed on 1 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.
