Salinas, California has the perfect blend of agriculture and literary history. It is the hometown of Nobel-Prize-winning author, John Steinbeck, along with the National Steinbeck Center that features many exhibits, artifacts and film clips looking back into John Steinbeck's life. In addition, only two blocks away is The Steinbeck House, where John Steinbeck was born. It is now a restaurant and gift shop that visitors can enjoy. Beyond its literary legacy, Salinas is nestled in the heart of the Salinas Valley, known as the "Salad Bowl of the World" for its rich agricultural production. The valley’s fertile soil produces a significant portion of the nation's fruits and vegetables.
Downtown Salinas is a growing hub for local businesses, restaurants, and popular attractions. It’s the perfect place to explore murals painted by local artists and experience the vibrant energy this area offers.
The California Welcome Center Salinas is located at the historic Southern Pacific Freight Depot in the Intermodal Transit Center of Downtown Salinas. It is a regional heritage center that provides detailed information on places to eat and stay and houses a variety of artifacts and collector's items that highlight the history of the Central Coast.
Stay
Salinas offers a variety of comfortable and convenient places to stay, whether it's for business, leisure, or a weekend getaway. From cozy, independently owned inns to well-known hotel chains, there are accommodations to fit every need. Many local hotels provide easy access to downtown so there are plenty of opportunities to discover the gems downtown has to offer. For those seeking a more unique experience, there are also charming bed and breakfasts, such as Vision Quest Ranch at the Monterey Zoo. At Vision Quest Ranch, guests have the opportunity to stay in an authentic African-style bungalow just yards away from roaring lions and tigers. It is a unique experience that cannot be missed! See more options and find the perfect place to stay here.
Eat
Salinas offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual eateries serving farm-to-table dishes to upscale restaurants showcasing international cuisine. Whether it's for fresh seafood, authentic Mexican fare, or innovative fusion cuisine, the local restaurants in Salinas cater to all tastes.
Villa Azteca is located in downtown Salinas and offers traditional Mexican food with a twist. This restaurant has made waves for its lively atmosphere and delicious dishes like the lobster enchiladas bathed in a creamy swash blossom sauce or their fish tacos.
Alvarado on Main is another great restaurant to check out. There are 48 taps featuring beers from all three of Alvarado Street's breweries and delicious pub fare using local ingredients. Looking for more breweries? Check out La Cantina Brewing Company, one of Salinas' newest breweries, offering craft beer inspired by its Mexican roots or Brew-N-Krew Ale House, a women-owned brewery serving beer in a lively atmosphere.
Looking for fresh sushi and authentic Japanese food? Check out KoKoRo Japanese Restaurant and try sashimi, hand rolls, noodles and more.
A must-visit spot is El Charrito. Established in 1981, first starting as a grocery store, it has evolved into a popular burrito spot known for its hand-stretched flour-tortillas made fresh in-house daily.
There is a lot more food to explore in Salinas. Check out the full list of places to try here.
Explore
Wine tasting in Salinas Valley is a must! Along River Road, the Monterey Wine Trail offers stunning views while sipping on award-winning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other local varietals.
The giant farmers standing 20 feet high in the fields off Highway 68 mark the entrance to The Farm – a great escape hatch for families. Crafted by local artist John Cerney, these larger-than-life statues of packers, trimmers and irrigators are a tribute to the hard-working men and women of The Farm. Here you can stroll the working farm that unfolds with rows of lettuces, strawberries, tomatoes and flowers. For a hands-on experience, book a custom tour which includes one-on-one time with a farmer and visit various parts of the vegetable faming operation while taking part in the daily routine of a real farmer. On your way out, don't forget to stop by the bakery to pick up some delicious pies!
Traveling down to South County, there is more to explore. Such as the Agricultural and Rural Life Museum in King City's San Lorenzo Park. This is a great activity to do with the family to discover artifacts and stories from the late 1800s through World War II. There are seven buildings within the museum: the Exhibit Barn, Olson Blacksmith Shop, Tractor and Harvester Shed, the History of Irrigation Museum, the Historic Spreckels House, La Gloria Schoolhouse and the King City Train Depot. There is plenty of history to explore here!
For the outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, visit Pinnacles National Park. The park is famous for its striking rock formations, towering spires, and dramatic cliffs, offering stunning hiking opportunities with panoramic views. Visitors can explore a variety of trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs, and even venture through cool caves. Pinnacles is also a top destination for birdwatching, particularly for spotting California condors soaring overhead!
Looking for more outdoor recreation and relaxation? Lake San Antonio is a serene oasis perfect for that! Surrounded by rolling hills and lush landscapes, the lake offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Its clear waters and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for camping, picnicking and hiking along the scenic shoreline.
