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.
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.
Things to do
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Carmel Tour in The Heavenly 17 Mile Drive
Mist, Mayhem, & Murder: Monterey Ghost Tours
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Good staff
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
The Monterey Hotel
The staff was friendly and our room was clean with nice views… and conveniently close to things to do… I loved the complementary coffee bar in the morning but really wish they offered breakfast
Reviewed on 16 Jan 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Location is ideal. Quiet and close to town by walking.
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
Hotel Pacific
Was a very spacious room and we enjoyed our stay.
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Monterey Marriott
It was amazing, the assistant manager was awesome!
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
Small room but very solid for the price.
Reviewed on 18 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.
