The dance between ethereal and visceral is never-ending in this art-nurturing hamlet we call Monterey County. Home to museums, galleries and performing arts venues, Monterey is as much a hub for artistic expression as it is a source of heightened inspiration to the creative fraternity at large. A diverse and renowned community of artists, performers and curators of fine art share their passion and put it on display for all to enjoy.
Much of this amazing local arts and culture scene is owed to the Arts Council for Monterey County (Arts4MC). The mission of the Arts Council is to improve the quality of life for visitors and locals alike in the Monterey County region through the arts.
Explore some highlights from their recommended Cultural Road Trip for your next special Monterey getaway.
Arts & Museums in Monterey County
A place as inspiring and downright breathtaking as Monterey County is bound to source great artistic and creative expression. Unwind with live music from local artists, discover the area's historic sites and museums and get inspired by the vivid arts scene in Monterey County. Ready to change your point of view? Check out our story below and change your perspective…
West End Public Art
SAND CITY
Awe-inspiring works of art can be appreciated all over the lively town of Sand City! Take a self-guided public art walk to view the public murals in the West End created by local and visiting artists and then grab a brew at the nearby Post No Bills Craft Beer House.
Want to experience the vibrant culture for yourself? Sand City blends together food & drink, dancing and interactive art at Night Market 831 on the first Friday of every month. Sand City’s funky, artistic atmosphere is also on display at the annual Sand City West End Celebration in August featuring local artists and musicians.
Ocean Avenue
CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
Straight out of a fairytale, the scenic beauty and allure of Carmel-by-the-Sea have inspired soulful culture, artists and renowned authors for centuries. Experience the charm of this seaside town and stroll along the city’s lively Ocean Avenue to see local artist's galleries, kitschy shops, darling boutiques and storybook architecture.
Monterey Walking Tours
THE OLD WHALING STATION, MONTEREY
Explore the sites and secrets of Monterey up close and on foot! If you're the type of traveler who likes to take guided or self-guided tours, Monterey Walking Tours makes a memorable trip with unique opportunities to learn fun tidbits of Monterey's history and culture from local experts. Afternoon tours of historic Monterey take you through history from the time of Spanish explorers to California statehood or walk in the footsteps of those from the bygone fishing and canning era on a morning tour of Cannery Row.
National Steinbeck Center
SALINAS VALLEY
Many of Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author John Steinbeck’s literary works were inspired by the agricultural fields, fruitful pastures, rolling hills and ocean fronts of Monterey County. But the city of Salinas deserves the most recognition as it was Steinbeck’s primary inspiration and hometown. Take a Steinbeck literary tour to three essential stops in Salinas including the National Steinbeck Center and The Steinbeck House gift shop & restaurant and carry on through the agriculture gem that is the Salinas Valley where literary inspiration can be found in abundance.