Monterey, California skyline: the 39 most iconic buildings and best views in Monterey

Instantly a favorite. Purchased tickets online which made entry painless and quick. We loved all the unique exhibits. Every area of the aquarium had something different to offer, from art installations, kelp forrest, deep sea creatures, otters, outdoor area with seating, views and so much more. We loved that they sold snacks and beverages (alcoholic & non alcoholic). Passing time watching sea birds, listening to the ocean and searching for sea otters at their outdoor area was just blissful. The entire facility was absolutely beautiful. We paid $180 for our tickets and we definitely plan on returning.

My girls friends and I came into town and bought tickets in advance because we knew this was a must see and it did not disappoint. We started with the feeding of the sea otters which was so cute. Then we stopped for a quick coffee at the cafe. Everything in their cafe looked delicious. We enjoyed the many exhibits and enjoyed the touch tanks. There was do many things you could touch and see up close. I would highly recommend going. Couple tips buy your tickets online in advance and get there early it gets really crowded!

A man called Doug Doug recommended me to this place so I was in the area and decided to go. First of all the surrounding area was very nice there was a car show in the area so some luxury cars blessed my eyes. Now on to the aquarium beautiful place, there was a nice route to follow. The sea otters were definitely a highlight of my trip. In addition there was many interactive areas for children to use. Overall I was my favourite part about my trip to America. I would recommend anyone who is passing though the area to pop in and see this wonderful aquarium. Rest in peace Rosa the sea otter o7

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is an absolutely world-class institution that I believe is well worth the visit, offering a truly immersive window into the Pacific Ocean's ecosystems. I found that it excels not just as a display of marine life, but as a dedicated center for conservation and education. The standout exhibits, which I saw are beautifully maintained and thoughtfully designed, showcase the region's unique biodiversity. I think the Kelp Forest exhibit is a breathtaking, three-story spectacle, featuring towering fronds that create a dynamic, lush habitat for leopard sharks, wolf-eels, and schools of fish. Equally impressive to me is the massive Open Sea exhibit, where I was able to watch tuna, sea turtles, and dazzling schools of sardines swim past a spectacular 90-foot viewing window, which really emphasized the vastness of the open ocean. A newer, must-see addition is the Into the Deep exhibition, which successfully brings the mysterious creatures of the dark abyss to light. Beyond the major tanks, I noticed the Sea Otter exhibit is consistently a visitor favorite, allowing you to watch the playful, charismatic otters romp and groom. The mesmerizing Jellyfish exhibit was also an ethereal highlight for me, using controlled lighting to showcase the delicate beauty and graceful pulsing of various jelly species. The aquarium is perched right on the edge of the bay, and the Great Tide Pool and ocean-view decks provided a wonderful opportunity for me to spot wild marine life, including sea otters and sometimes even whales. While I know admission is on the higher end, I feel the quality of the exhibits and the aquarium's non-profit conservation mission justify the cost. Be aware that the aquarium can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To make the most of your trip, I recommend buying tickets online in advance and aiming to visit on a weekday or arrive right at opening time to experience the most popular exhibits, like the Kelp Forest and Sea Otters, before the large crowds arrive. I would plan to spend at least four hours to fully appreciate the two main floors and attend one of the informative animal feedings or programs. I can say this is more than just an aquarium; it's an unforgettable educational experience and a vital force in ocean protection.

It was way better when I was younger, but still a great experience for my son. The sea otters were so fun to watch! There was a tall man who was very friendly and helpful, which made our visit even better. The only downside is that the price is pretty high.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is truly world class. The exhibits are very well cared for, thoughtfully designed, and provide an incredible opportunity to learn about marine life and conservation. I especially appreciate how accessible the aquarium is for all ages and how it inspires children to start learning about the ocean early in life. That said, the aquarium is often very crowded, which can make it difficult to move through and see the exhibits comfortably. Many of the displays are geared toward children, so if you are hoping for a calm and quiet day observing marine life, this may not be the best fit. It has more of a lively, theme-park feel than a peaceful experience. Overall, I think everyone should visit at least once. The aquarium does amazing work, and their efforts to educate the public about ocean health and marine biology are inspiring. Just be prepared for crowds and lots of families.

So many amazing marine animals to see here and it's really beautiful! There were only two sea otters though, and I wish there were more!! The aquarium also has several cafés with food and drinks, plus gift shops that kids will love. Overall, it was a really enjoyable visit, but just keep in mind that it does get pretty crowded on weekends😂

It's a nice place to shop and dine. I just wish the weather was a lot warmer. It's very chilly by the ocean, like 64 degrees, but 30 minutes out, it's 80 degrees.

Great place to walk around enjoy shopping, restaurants, and the lovely scenery

Very touristy but some nice shops and good atmosphere. You often see cool and old cars driving around this place.

Meh. If you like shopping for souvenirs and over priced food you would like this place. Pretty much the same as every other souvenir shop area but it does have a great view.

Nice little downtown area Lots of restaurants for seafood lovers

Gorgeous seaside views, fantastic restaurants, quaint shops; Cannery Row is an iconic oceanfront boardwalk attraction that is definitely worth a visit when you're in Monterey. Upon approach, it may seem that there isn't all that much to it, but once you're on the boardwalk, you realize that a lot of the good stuff is tucked away, a little out of sight, so exploration rewards the traveler. Apparently the aquarium here is also quite the draw, although we didn't pop in during our brief stay here. Lastly, the old Fisherman's Wharf, a little ways to the south-southeast, is almost an extension of all the things that make Cannery Row worth checking out: more shops, more restaurants, and more history. All together, one of the best attractions, and most exciting tourist destinations, in all of Monterey!

This review is for the beach at Canary Row. I like this place. Very scenic.

We had Graham as a tour guide and he was amazing! It was so much fun learning interesting history about our area. I really wanted to see the California First Theater and I'm so glad the tour included that. Thank you to the State Park for running these great programs 🙌

Excellent source of Monterey early history. I highly recommend taking the 1 hour tour. The historic buildings are spread out, so you'll be getting in a little exercise, as well. Take your time soaking in everything. Fascinating information!

Nice Californian history, volunteers very helpful and knowledgeable, free exhibits, beautiful walk, something for everyone

Should be named Dog Poop park. I was so disappointed to see off leash dogs and large piles of dog poop everywhere. Yellow patches of dead grass from the urine. This park has signs banning dogs but inconsiderate people have ruined it and no one seems to enforce the laws. Absolutely disgusting and filthy place that has so much potential for beauty and historical significance.

This is a fun and educational venue with a terrific museum and gift shop.

Jade festival this weekend, lots to see and purchase.

When the maintenance staff are done with their coffee breaks, maybe they could fix the light and signage at men’s room at Plaza del Oro. Please show some courtesy when parking your trucks on the Plaza walkways.

We had a great time at the museum. There was easy parking on the street. The sculptures in the park on the side were very pleasing. We were greeted and oriented to the museum by Kaliya who was wonderful even during our visit by making sure we were enjoying our time. I loved the free clipboard at the front to take while we wandered. The exhibits were phenomenal and well curated.

This place is a GEM! We have really enjoyed every visit and now we are members. Everything they have in their current exhibits is wonderful, fascinating, and inspirational. I keep thinking back on what I saw.

'25 Block party was small and nicely setup for children 🧒🏻. Courtyard is small but nice. Added a video.

The Big Sur exhibit was very educational and, besides the beauty of it, had so much historical value! Also. the docent was marvelous!

This was such a fun little museum. The pictures are absolutely amazing (some very talented people showcased here) and the ambiance is great.

Well, I did want to see The Jane Kim exhibit. It was small, interactive and interesting. But the staff hovering was a bit much. If we have to wear masks and socially distance (per signage) they should do the same. At $15 each ticket not exactly a bargain to spend an hour. If you go, stop here first, so if you are disappointed you can be cheered up by the very large, very FREE ocean and flora and birds! I saw a Peta sticker on a car outside. I mention this because in the CA exhibit was a mission on whalebone--ouch. I thought the flora fauna exhibit was very dull. Penelope Gottlieb's piece puzzling. To me showcasing Audubon as reference misses the mark. However, the pottery with butterfly the best piece in that exhibit. So my adventure ended very sadly because Colton Hall too was closed. It is across the street.

Museum is awesome. Staff? Not so much.

Free parking in front and in the lot in back. The museum is upstairs. Large hall with artifacts and reproductions of the California constitution. Great docent who gave us a tour of the museum. The jail is next door and down stairs, Self guided and fun.

Monterey has a rich history and Colton Hall and the Old Monterey Jail are a "must see." You can see old graffiti scratched into the stones in the back of the jail. If you want, you can go to the museum, or just stroll around the whole area. I love the bear sculptures and the seal of California in front of the buildings. There are different garden areas and a lot of beautiful old stone work.

Amazing history. A must see when in Monterey...

This is a very interesting stop to make while in Monterey. You can view the first Constitution since this is where it all started. We were lucky enough to meet Liz there who explained it all so well. The old Jail is cool too.

Small but historically important free museum. Plan on about 15 minutes. It's mostly about creating the State constitution. Also a nice view out the balcony. Worth a visit. Did I mention it was FREE?

The grounds are beautiful and the history on the placards are a definite must read. The bear statues are cool. The park is very clean and manicured.

Not kid friendly at all, my 6 year old walked up the stairs slowly and stood on the balcony to take a picture then was getting ready to walk back down, and the lady came out and said please don’t let them play on the stairs? I was thinking about taking them inside but she was very rude, we were not even on the stairs or near them.

I booked a whale watching excursion with Discovery Whale watching. I was not disappointed. We seen all kinds of whales. I was starving and the crew was kind enough to suggest Cafe Fina in the main row of the Old Wharf. If you mention the excursion they give a free cheesy garlic bread. It did not disappoint. Delicious, fresh Italian food. They are a long time restaurant thats been there over 30 years. A must try if you can.

Old Fisherman’s Wharf is a charming spot filled with great restaurants, shops, and unforgettable views of the sea. A highlight of our visit was seeing a whale and sea lions in their natural habitat, which made the experience truly special. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxing, perfect for strolling, enjoying seafood, and creating lasting memories.

We did whale watching tour here. It was amazing experience. We pre booked our trip and really enjoyed the 3 hour tour. The deck has so many restaurants, shops. You will get most of the stuff here. Overall quite a good experience

Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey is always a fun stop! Great place to hang out and people-watch—especially spotting the tourists braving the weather in shorts. 😄 The restaurants serve up some fantastic food (can’t go wrong with the clam chowder!), and the views are absolutely picture-perfect. You can even spot seals lounging around, which makes the experience even better.

It’s small and charming, like you’re stepping back in time. However, with so many other options with more selection of shops and scenery, this one wasn’t a favorite. I preferred Cannery Row.

I absolutely love this area! I come here whenever I can great restaurants beautiful views. Places to shop and whale watching is offered as well.

It was nice to come back here again. This Wharf offers an assortment of restaurants and shops. A few candy and ice cream shops. Seafood galore! Souvenir shops at every turn, it seems! Individual vendors at the entrance. It provides a stage for talented musicians. It's even a popular hangout for wildlife from seagulls, pigeons, squirrels, otters, and sea lions. Lots to see and do for sure!

Wonderfull and Beautiful 253 years old Cathedral in downtown Monterey CA

Such a beautiful historic church. The grotto and surrounding prayer gardens were so awesome. We were able to enter for a daily rosary. Highly recommend this outing if you're visiting.

My review is not for the active San Carlos Cathedral church services. Instead it's for the Royal Presidio Chapel historic federal landmark. They are both the same building. Currently the San Carlos Cathedral Catholic Church uses the Presidio Chapel. When services are not occurring, visitors can explore the interior and outside facade. There is no charge to walk about, it's free. The present sandstone chapel construction was completed in 1795. The native Americans labors built the chapel. The Monterey Presidio was founded in 1770 as the second of four Spanish Presidios. At that time, the presidio's chapel served for the Spanish soldiers and dignitaries. It's the oldest stone building in California. When walking about the exterior of the chapel take note of the marked lines to the right of the building. Those lines indicate chapel construction (where, what, and when). Directly in the back there is a plaque memorializing where the Oak tree stood in 1770 where Father Junipero Serra broke ground for the chapel construction. The tree was removed in 1905 when it was damaged. But the tree holds important place in Monterey history. In 1602, it is said that Spanish explorer Vizcaíno followed the creek from the Bay and noticed this majestic oak tree. Under that tree he and with the friars, traveling in his expedition, held Mass under the tree and claimed the area for Spain. Father Serra followed Vizcaino's directions to the site in 1770 to establish a mission and presidio. But a year or two later he decided to build the mission in Carmel instead. But the presidio continued with building the chapel. Pieces of the grand tree have been preserved and are located in various local museums. Now let's talk about out the interior. The church doors are left open during the day welcoming all inside. Inside there are paintings and statues including are originals such as the Stations of the Cross, St John, Sorrowful Mother, and Spanish Madonna. As you enter the church, look up and the exterior and take notice of the Our Lady of Guadalupe statue; it's still the original making it the oldest non-indigenous statue in California. Also throwing it out there that there are cameras all over and everything is monitored. So don't be a doofus. Just enjoy and soak in the history.

This Church is very historic and Mass was incredible and spiritual, thanks for the Priesst and services. God bless you 🙏🙏🙏

Gorgeous, fully renovated chapel with a great priest during Christmas services. Beautiful vintage decorations, really lovely grounds and popular school.

The altar for Dia de Muerta is beautiful and heart warming. Bless all acknowledged here and their families ❤️

Fabulous history preserved of the old Spanish missions. Peaceful and beautiful. Worth a visit.

This is one of the stops of the Monterey Path of History. On my visit, the gardens were open and they were beautiful. It is definitely worth the stop. I would like to add that I have attempted to visit several other times within the open hours listed on Google and found that they were not open. Also, there is no signage on the home itself in any of the windows that would indicate whether or not this home is available for touring. I do realize this information may be available somewhere online, but it would be nice for tourists and locals alike for more information to be available on-site. Otherwise, two random garden doors marked "entrance" can be quite confusing as once you are back there it almost feels as though you are somewhere you are not supposed to be.

Exterior was open to the public with an informational QR code. The interior was only open on Fridays and Saturdays.

Larkin house is a hidden treasure Garden of Solace and Silent Lucidity. At this time it's a good place reflect and enjoy by oneself or another. Places like this will make one's solitude and isolation feel like not only a need but a fulfillment.

When I was around 4,5,6, we lived on the ranch us kids played around our house the pasture we would play where there was a creek and dam I think the house was white if looking the barns the house on the left we went down a long drive way. Ya can see the hills I love that place.. great memories Karen Cole. . 1963 we left for Washington in ,64..thanks

What a gorgeous spot in the heart of Monterey!

Everything felt thoughtfully arranged, from the seating to the layout of pathways.

We enjoyed walking around the quiet gardens. We went as part of the self-guided walking tour of historical buildings in Monterey--it was great and very educational, would recommend.

Lots of volunteers taking care of the garden. It's a gem in here. Alta bakery and Cella restaurant share the backyard, patio, garden and restrooms. It felt like living on a beautiful estate.

We found this place, on our way to get lunch. It's a hidden gem. We were able to stroll through the garden, lots of flowers. Relaxing place, the lunch was great at Alta Bakery, which shares the same corner and their are public restrooms.

You'll have to look for this place - kinda tucked away - but well worth the effort. Lovely walled garden and garden paths with the 'required' garden cat. Inside the house, a well done presentation of the history with fresh looks of the Cooper / Molera family and Monterey's history. Great venue if you need a venue! Clean bathrooms. All in all a perfect escape or place to take a break.

Excellent historic adobe and museum. Friendly and helpful staff too

Really interesting historic house, well curated. I hope there will be even more interpretation added once the 2nd floor restoration is complete and more in particular added about the history of Native people in the area and the way the families that lived here operated within the socio-political structures of at least 4 different governments/states and how they participated in international trade networks.

Family gathered for a birthday lunch. 4 of 5 of us are vegetarian. The food was good. I had the avocado toast. It could have benefited from some seasoning. The garlic fries were awesome. Coffee and hot chocolate excellent! There was a huge crowd so some things weren't available when we ordered. Outdoor seating only.

This beautiful historic park is a treasure in downtown Monterey. A genius partnership between private business and the national trust of historic places has allowed this space to reopen. Both the historic buildings/gardens and the cafe now occupying one of the buildings are not to be missed. Drop by, slow down, and appreciate what this space has to offer.

This historical site, built in 1840 is a place Robert Louis Stevenson stayed and did writing. The building was closed and tours don't appear to be scheduled, you can explore the grounds and peer through the windows. To enter the backyard garden you go through an opening (unmarked in front of the building). It's worth a quick stroll if you're interested in a historic site.

Charming building where Robert Louis Stevenson lived for three and a half months in 1879. There’s a lovely, quiet garden in the back that’s great for a peaceful sit down. The major downside is that the building is open only April through October, that too only on Saturdays, and that too only 1-4pm. Nevertheless, worth a visit if you love Stevenson and wish to have a blissful hour in a nice backyard garden.

Interesting point of exploration in Monterey, California. Robert Louis Stevenson home from 1879, where Treasure Island was manuscripted.

The right time to visit and enjoy this secret garden!

Friendly, knowledgeable docents. Great antique collection. Beautiful building.

The interior was closed when I walked by on the Path of History, but the gardens are very beautiful and peaceful. There are a couple placards posted so you can pick up a little info even without going inside.

Interesting history, house & pretty garden!

Went after closing time, and the doors are locked, so all I could see were the doors and what people have taken pictures of on Google Maps 🙃 Small jail but a cool part of history!

Very cool place. You can see inside the jail on your own, it doesn’t require admittance and is always open. There’s a audio tour available on site.

The Old Monterey City Jail is a nice visit for those who are interested in historic jails and those that are just interested in history, particularly California History. They are open from 10am-4pm, Thursday through Sunday, closed Monday through Wednesday. The address is on Pacific St (Google), but the entrance to the jail is located behind Colton Hall on Dutra St. It is self guided and will probably only take you 5 minutes to walk in, read the signs at the different exhibits and snap a few pictures. If you are visiting Colton Hall Museum (where the first signing of the California Constitution took place), then you should check out the old jail.

Right next to Holton Hall, historical significance for California history. Great little museum.

Nice closed down jail type free museum. Has info on history of monterey. Behind it is city hall of monterey. Great place for photos and history knowledge

An interesting place. You just go inside the jail on your own, it is very small and doesn’t require a ticket.

You need to take a look at this old jail. Very interesting

I had tried 4-5 times to contact them regarding booking my wedding there next year. It took several weeks to get a response. Yesterday we made plans to tour. The manager Terry stated tours were available Tuesdays and Thursdays. I then told her I lived in Irvine which is almost 6 hours away, and could only come on a weekend. Terry then said if I could definitely come Saturday (today) she would give me a tour. I thanked her and let her know I would get there by early afternoon (again it’s 6 hours north). I figured I would let her knows when I was an hour away. I left at 7 am. Four hours into the drive I stopped for gas and saw she emailed me at 9 stating she would cancel if I didn’t tell her when I’d be there and soon. I then emailed back and texted her stating I had already been driving for 4 hours. She canceled anyway stating it was her day off. And then said I could still go look in the window. Are you kidding? Needless to say we are going with another venue. I would not invest money in this poorly managed venue. My dogs and I are now on our 4 hour drive back home.

Very private. It does not appear open at first glance.

Great place to go at Christmas

Beautiful and historic

I had been looking forward to visiting Point Pinos Lighthouse for a while, and it did not disappoint! This historic lighthouse is a hidden gem with a rich history and beautiful coastal views. The entry fee is only $7 per person, which includes a tour of the lighthouse keeper’s quarters and fascinating insights into its past. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the history. Since the lighthouse has limited visiting days and hours, I recommend planning ahead. After the tour, you can take a short walk around the area and enjoy the stunning scenery. A must-visit for history and nature lovers!

Well worth the price of admission. Great staff, lots of history very well presented in the lighthouse, beautiful gardens & landscaping. My only disappointments were: (1) the public golf course surrounds the lighthouse property, and (2) you can only view the lamp through a Plexiglas barrier at the top of the upper staircase & in a mirror. But overall, Point Pinos Lighthouse is a must-see if you're interested in nautical history.

Absolutely phenomenal visit. The ticket lady left a whole lot to be desired. Definitely need someone that is friendly and welcoming .. didn't get that with her. But the volunteers inside providing the tour details were fantastic. Very informative and very happy to be of service. It was a beautiful lighthouse and I loved learning about the history of the lighthouse and Pacific Grove. The grounds were very well taken care of, tons of flowers, trees, informative plaques, and deer. Loved my visit, will be back again.

I love seeing lighthouses and was excited to visit the Point Pinos Lighthouse, but unfortunately they close at 3pm and we arrived around 3:12pm on a Sunday. I was hoping since it was after hours, we would be able to walk around the grounds, but unfortunately, the lighthouse is gated, so there was limited viewing of the lighthouse. There is a small parking lot on at the entrance on Alisonar Ave. Surrounding the lighthouse is the Pacific Grove Golf Links golf course. If you want to visit the lighthouse, make sure you come at their open hours (see my picture for hours and admission fees).

Had such a great time here. The lighthouse is available for ahowrt window, but it's worth it. There are restrooms available and a gift shop. The grounds are so beautiful and you can walk around. The lighthouse itself, you are able to go in and take a tour of the place. Lorrie, a volunteer on the 1st floor, gave us so much information and insight it was great to hear it all. Her husband was also volunteering and gave us information on the 2nd, and it was amazing to learn from them both. As we were leaving, there were deer sunbathing in the neighboring houses, great ending to a great experience.

Absolutely amazing and great volunteers to tell you all about the history. It is a must see for sure

Must visit..there is a line..waiting 10 minutes..to see around and explore takes 30 minutes...children will love this place.it has great history.

Oh my gosh, what an amazing gem for little kids! Our toddler was so in love, we had to get the membership. We now go every week on Wednesday, they do a special gymnastics class with the marvelous Miss Shae, such fun! Shae is a gem, and so precious that we get to do gymnastics with her at our most favorite museum. Just wonderful all around ❤️!

Monterey County Youth Museum is a small place but big enough for children to dream big and explore. MY Museum is meant for children to use their imagination and role playing. My nieces and nephews are a bit older so they liked the MY Creation Station using everyday materials that were provided. They also have glue gun to use as well. We'll definitely be back for more fun times.

Our daughter really enjoyed this place for a fun afternoon break. There are lots of things for kids to play with, and the creative center was pretty cool where they can make crafts with all the supplies and even hot glue guns. If you buy a ticket for the day, you can come back at any point until they close that day. The entire place was kept very clean, and attention to detail was apparent. The ladies in the front were very kind and explained everything in detail upon checking in. Highly recommended 👌

It's a nice place to go with toddlers and kids until 6 years old, the activities are nice for the little ones.

Nice place but there are some people who work with great racism and discrimination between children . I used to go with my children for a long time without any problems until a new employee came and her treatment of the dear one was very ugly and incomprehensible. She asked me not to let my children play in a place designated for children only under 3 years old. I always see kids older than my kids playing in the same place and you don't talk to them I also have a child under 3 years old, but she refused to let my children play in that place. Her treatment was totally unfair.

We had a super delightful field trip to the museum with my grandaughters preschool. Lots of interactivities for all ages, so innovative and fun. We will definitely go again

If you have little ones this definitely needs to be on your itinerary for your trip to Monterey. For just $10 a person your child can play in a safe area that encourages learning and creative play. The staff keeps it very clean and sanitized. Parking is easy to find just be mindful of time limits on your parking spot. The meter maids are brutal LOL

Very nice, tiny museum with very, very friendly docent who enjoys talking & explaining history to visitors. Free admission but we donate money to help pge bills. I’m

The Sloat Monument is located at the Presidio of Monterey Museum in California, commemorating the landing of Commodore John D. Sloat in 1846, an event that marked the beginning of the U.S. military presence in California during the Mexican-American War. The monument itself is a stone structure that honors Sloat's role in the capture of Monterey and symbolizes the transition of California from Mexican to American control. The Presidio of Monterey Museum showcases this historical context along with various artifacts and exhibits related to the military history of the region. The museum provides insight into the life and times of early California, the role of the U.S. military, and the diverse cultures that have influenced the area. It's a great place for visitors interested in maritime history, military heritage, and the broader narrative of California's past. The surrounding park also offers beautiful views and a peaceful environment, making it a lovely spot for both education and reflection. Make it friendly The Sloat Monument is a lovely spot at the Presidio of Monterey Museum in California, celebrating the arrival of Commodore John D. Sloat in 1846. This event marked an important moment in California history, as it led to the U.S. military establishment in the area during the Mexican-American War. The monument itself is a charming stone structure honoring Sloat's role in capturing Monterey, symbolizing the shift of California from Mexican to American control. The Presidio of Monterey Museum is filled with fascinating exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the region's military history. Visitors can learn about life in early California and the diverse cultures that shaped the area. It’s a great destination for anyone interested in maritime history or military heritage! Plus, the park surrounding the museum offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect place to explore, learn, and enjoy some time outdoors.

Interesting place, so be sure to read the history plaques on the wall. Run by volunteers, and supported by private donations, strictly. So be sure to thank the volunteers, as well as please leave a few dollars behind...

Rich history of soldiers, their stories and sacrifices. Grateful for your service

This place is nice, very little museum but good. Entrance is free and the volunteer very friendly and told us a lot about what happened and also let us wander around on our own

You will have time travel for Monterey.

The museum was wonderful, but the best part was the docent. He was so warm and knowledgeable! He really brought the history to life and made it an experience to remember. I can't wait to visit again with my dad.

It took me far too long to visit this museum. I would pass the building almost daily until I ventured in through the garden gate. I was pleasantly surprised by the garden and grounds behind the museum. What a peaceful place to slip away from the hustle and bustle of the wharf. The museum is very well done.

The Pacific House museum does a credible job of telling the story of early Monterey, from the time before Spanish settlement through the time of heavy trading. The very best part of the museum, in my opinion, is the vast collection of Native tools, textiles and baskets on the second floor. I was the only one there, but the first floor wasn't terribly crowded either. If you're looking for something more to do than shop and eat, this place is worth a look. And it's free, to boot.

I enjoyed the museum. It will take less than 30 minutes and kids liked it. There is nice seating area outside the museum where we our home brought lunch.

Beautiful museum and gardens. Quiet place to get away from the crowds by the Wharf. Lots of benches to relax and enjoy the flowers.

Very nice free museum. Plan on about 30 minutes. Great location. Historic building. Nice displays. Well worth the effort. Did I mention it's FREE?

Brilliant Beautiful place! We witnessed the Hookah Lounge Restaurant Employee dressed in all black attire cut off several flowers and steal them for the restaurant he works at right across from the Pacific House Museum. We called the Ranger and the Museum. This is sickening that they steal the flowers for their table decor! A wonderful Museum.

One of the many buildings in historic, downtown Monterey that are part of the state park. The free museum explores the history of Monterey and the founding of California as a state. I found the first half the museum pretty interesting (on the west side) even though it could use an update. Don't miss the language activity where you can hear the local Indigenous language. The east side of the building has an overview of the many houses in the park, a small exhibit about Californios, too. Upstairs is a Native American museum, however, while the basketry is stellar the majority of the objects on display are not from California. Seems someone with a fondness of romantic Plains Indians collected most of the objects. Would be nice to see that updated, but, funding rules and there isn't much of it.

Pretty cool place to visit.

Sadly not to visit. Seems to be under construction anyway.

We didn't make it to go inside. We looked around outside and it looked amazing.

The history is amazing.

Its a neat place to check out if your in Monterey.

Excellent wild flower garden.

Nice neighborhood venue.

We've been going to this park since my kids were young specifically Dennis deMenace Park. However, we've never ever walked around or fish the lake. We recently got into fishing so chasing fish planting schedule was part of knowing where the fish are. Since El Estero Lake still received a trout plant in May, we decided to fish the lake to see what we can catch. As per this recent visit, I caught a couple of hatchery trout and my wife caught a handful of large bluegills. Parking was plentiful and lake looked clean. Pathways were clear but as any park with bird wildlife, droppings were a problem. Weather was nice and visitors seemed responsible about keeping their surroundings clean. In lieu of lake swimming, paddle boats were available for rental so visitors can enjoy the lake too. There's a skateboard park too. Overall, El Estero is a nice park.

This is wonderful park on all measures of park life! El Estero is in a primo location in the center 💜 of Monterey. Surrounded by native plants that attract wildlife to add to this playground habitat trail! There is a giant playground for kids on the upper level & a super smooth skate park below. The skate park has surfaces for a lot of skating and biking styled activities & sports. The pontoon dragon & swan peddled boats at the lake look so fun to ride. Lots of areas to pull up a folding chair and have a picnic and relax by the ocean! Thank you for providing these creature comforts all in one public park by the bay!

This dog park at El Estero Lake is convenient and pretty well maintained. It’s not very big but they made good use of the space they had. When I lived in Monterey, I went often because it was a place where I could let the dogs off the leash. Now that I live in Salinas, it’s a great pitstop when we’re running errands on the Peninsula. I hardly run into people there anymore so more often than not were the only ones there and it feels safe. Sometimes the parking is being used by the people at Dennis the Menace park but usually you can find a parking place. I’ve never had an issue with another dog there though there was one dog owner that was so mean to his dog and left his dog on the leash while in the dog park. I had to leave because I felt he might be nicer to his dog if he didn’t have an audience. Now that I write this, I should’ve at least said something before I left not that it would’ve done any good, but I should’ve told him he was a really bad dog parent.

Kids had a blast. No pesticide since 2008. Things seemed a little older. But overall it was great further kids of all ages to runaround and have fun.

This place was recommended by a local for us to take my daughte too. There was a lot of people there but the playground was huge so it didnt feel like it was crowded. I would recommended coming early before all the parking spots are taken.

Im confused as to what this is since it has paddle boats, Denis The Menace park, and some other stuff. Peddle boats are fun but I think a lil pricey in my opinion. Denis the Menace park is very fun. 2, 5 and 8 year old kids loved it here. Very fun. Definitely recommend it. Restrooms are okay but working is the most important part.

One of the scenic parks in Monterey. The view of the lake at this park is spectacular. With it being very close to the ocean, it really makes sitting there a very relaxing experience. It always feels like spring at this park. The playground is great for kids while the parents can enjoy the view of the lake and the nearby ocean.

Stumbled upon this during some free time I had in Monterey. Located in the historical center of Monterey, I found this little brick building to be very interesting. It was free and open to the public, as a self guided tour of sorts. Inside are panels with descriptions of the interesting history behind this building and several old pictures. The grounds are peaceful and serene. It will be a quick visit, maybe 20 minutes tops, but there are several other historical sites in the area that can be visited to make it a full morning or afternoon.

Nicely preserved remnant of old Monterey, interesting inside and out.

Very much open as of Tuesday 11th March 2025.

The first floor is open with displays showing why it was constructed in brick and its use throughout history. Free to enter.

First Brickhouse is a great historical site. And we are grateful to be a part of the restoration.

As of today, December 24, 2018, the museum is open for self guided tours only, though it is considered to be "temporarily closed" for reasons I'm not aware of.

Very beautiful.

Beautiful place. Very well preserved and nicely maintained.

Historical

Great spot to stop and check out the statue and wildlife.

A good place to stop by and walk around. Not as much to see as Carmel or the 17 mile drive, but it’s worth stopping by. The bougainvillea flowers were gorgeous!!

Nice monument/statue/art. There is a lot of history in this area. The art depicts some of the story here.

This is a great spot from the boardwalk, it has a nice view of the sea. A great place to have a stroll around, see the nearby attractions and lots of restaurants offering nearby

Beautiful place to spend some time when you visit Monterey, California.

Nice little statuary along the Monterey bay walkway by cannery row.

Lovely spot for reflection and contemplation. Ocean views are awesome too!

We love this small museum! It has tons of things for small children to do from a playing area to finding a fossil in a rock pit. It was awesome to find out that they have special event on the last Saturday of the month. When I went it was free and there is a beautiful park across perfect for a picnic and it’s a small walk to the beach for longer visits.

This place in our 2500 mile road trip was special. We got in for free for being veterans and a special deal they had in the summer so that was awesome. The place is small and just outside of the tourist areas, but there is a beautiful park and a great Mexican resteraunt right next door. It is also just walking distance from the beach and another boardwalk park area with parking about The staff welcomed us and Bill talked to us and asked us where we were from and told us a little about some things we were looking at. Very friendly. The exhibit of the birds was very large and the interactive kids area was very artsy, decorative, and kids would love it. The sands of the world was also super unique and the microscope setup to look at different items was also unique! Great place

The museum is small, but the employees are engaging and informative. The museum is interactive and has plenty of cool hidden features for kids and adults alike. The $12 bucks was good for what we experienced... But the outside grounds was a disaster. My backyard looks better! It really can't be a part of the museum attraction, it's just a dirty mess!

My toddler totally loved it. As a Monterey county resident it was nice to learn about our community. I loved how everything is well organized. Every station had its own unique story. My son and I were there for about an hour. You might do two if you sit down and take your time reading every post. I think my son’s favorite part was the coloring and being able to see the live size taxidermy animals. My favorite part was the bird section and the upstairs. If you are visiting the area. It is a must see! Also, don't forget to pick something up from their gift shop section. We got some cool posters. Lastly, the gal at the front desk was very welcoming and informative. My son and I had a great time.

This little local hidden gem is a great place to see the animals, insects, sea life and things that are native to the area. A quiet and up close experience with many beautiful and well preserved animals, birds, insects and other artifacts from the history of the Monterey peninsula. A must see for the family!!

This was a great experience. It’s not too large or too small. Has a fun room with secret door— kids love it. Small outdoor garden. Large room with lots of stuffed birds.

This was a super fun side visit. My boys and I had a blast. Museums rule! Stop by. Bring the family. Doesnt take long to enjoy everything. We actually stopped by on our way back and it fit the scedule perfectly.

This fairly low-key offers a myriad of eateries, shops, hotels, and entertainment with ocean views and dome beach access on the West side. The area is dotted with sitting areas, mostly sandy with some tribute statues like The Cannery Riw group And a tribute bust to John Steinbeck. The shops include local vendors and services, international products, and some brand name providers like Ghirardelli chocolate and Hawaii's main pearl distributor. Several eateries like Tidal Coffee offer ocean view seating. We parked in the paid van accessible parking garage to spend the day moving thru the area. We found deals at Pebble beach Outlet, souvenir sweatshirts at local venues Accessible public restrooms. And some venues have private accessible restrooms. Well kept sidewalk for walking with steps or sandy trails to access beach Paid garage van accessible parking is the best bet and limited accessible street parking

Preferred Cannery Row over Fisherman’s Wharf! Both are similar with the typical tourist style food/beverage options but Cannery area was cleaner and offered more in the experience of historical references and better shopping. The biggest negative is the limited parking access sharing with the aquarium… do both while you’re in the area.

It's a nice place to visit. Are you planning to bring your dog on a stroll to this area? Don't! Please make sure your dog has already gone to the bathroom as there are hardly any places for your dogs to relieve themselves on this stretch. Be prepared and bring your bags and make sure you clean up after your dogs because apparently some people don't

Monterey is such a beautiful area. There are many places to explore. One of them is the old cannery. A Hodge podge of old canneries and new buildings. Of course many shopping areas. My wife likes the silver jewelry shop by the fish hopper restaurant. Many interesting antique stores. Of course there is also the Monterey Bay aquarium, a very well done aquarium with amazing displays. The restaurants, to many to mention, the fish hopper, the chart house, and chains El torito and bubba gumps. My favorite bar here is Sly McFly's a standard for locals. Lots to explore lots of walking. A couple of nice hotels with rooms overlooking the ocean. A couple of days to see things here.

Always an enjoyable experience. Especially off-season. Could not have had better weather. Wonderful food, drinks, shopping and views that cannot be beat.

I love this area, but as with all tourist areas, just out to get your hard earned money. Lots of great boutique shops and souvenir shops which are all overpriced. Did I mention parking? On street parking at the meters is reasonable if you have a clue how to use them! I have never used one in my life and don't normally see them where I live/work/socialise, so left them alone. There is a large parking lot, but at $20 a day I thought was very overpriced (it maybe worth $10). Starbucks: brilliant, prices remain the same as anywhere in California (except LA) and if you need the toilet, hey presto. I could go on and on, but I'll leave it here. I haven't mentioned the Aquarium, as its on a separate review.

Wonderful place to visit and dog friendly. Parking on the street is $5 for 4 hours. Parking meter accepts credit cards. We had our doggies with us. It's a very nice walk with a plaza to rest and to enjoy the bay views and sea life. We had a very nice time strolling with the doggies and visiting shops. There is also the Monterrey Aquarium to visit. Lots of restaurants and shops. We will definitely return.

Cute little sweets store, great selection of sweets. The staff were kind and friendly. If you’re in Carmel I recommend you to check out their store.

If you ever want to feel what Charlie did in the chocolate factory then step into Cottage of Sweets. Very easy to find if you’re walking in downtown Carmel, it somehow feels hidden even though it’s in plain sight. The exterior makes it seem like it’s just another shop but once you step in you’re greeted by enough candy and sweets to make you pre-diabetic at first sight. The shop itself is very small and narrow but they pack it to the brim with goodies. From regular candies to special edition/harder to find ones to fresh baked sweets; this place has it all. We looked around searching for something that called out to us. This is a place where there are just so many options that it’s hard to decide what you want to sink your teeth into. After a lot of deliberating we went with the chocolate peanut butter cup (they have milk and dark, we chose milk) and the cookies and cream malt balls (basically cookies and cream Whoppers). Excited to get some cavities, they bagged our sweets and we headed straight across the street to eat them. That’s one thing to note, there is no seating in there so if you want to eat immediately then you have to find seating. Luckily there is a library on the corner across the street with benches. Searching for a sugar rush, here’s what we found: the peanut butter cup was great. The chocolate shell is a bit hard to bite through, definitely not as soft as a Reese’s but the chocolate is much higher quality. The peanut butter filling is soft and delicious, easily a better version of a Reese’s. Moving onto the malt balls, they were great. Very light cookies and cream flavor but sweet. Much more on the cream side of cookies and cream so be aware of that. The texture is fantastic, soft exterior and a nice crunch from the malt interior. We were very pleased by both things we got and it far exceeded what we thought they would be. Cottage of Sweets is a must go if you’re in the downtown Carmel area, you won’t regret it.

The Cottage of Sweets was our favorite stop in town for obvious reasons! The building is historic, and the chocolate / candy available inside is fantastic. Amongst other things, we had chocolate covered gummy bears for the first time ever today. They were really good!

Order No. 10576 Placed on Jul 9, 2024. Delivery photos. I received the fudge order today and was disappointed the order was shipped without cold packs. It was definitely not a pleasant visual experience when I opened the 2 boxes. And to not have each flavor of fudge wrapped separately was a big mistake as the 2 different fudges stuck to each other. See photos below. As a result I will not be ordering any of your fudge for family or friends. The orders I’ve received in the past from you were fantastic quality and appearance upon delivery. From the photos unfortunately your shipping a quality product has deteriorated. Hopefully this honest email help to not disappoint a future customer.

Huge variety of sweets in this shop. Items can be $$$, some candies are $54/lb. Unless there's a specific candy that only this shop carries, you may find significantly lower prices elsewhere.

Really cute spot with lots of chocolates and candies. A bit pricey, and the quality was just okay. We tried three different items, but nothing really stood out—pretty basic, similar to what you could find elsewhere.

A cute little cottage full of Sweets! It's smaller on the inside than it seems from the photos, so every nook is full of goodies and visitors. For those anglophiles, you'll particularly love their selection of imported British candies.

We are awed each time we visit this gallery. While it is not one of the glitzy galleries, it is filled with beauty created by local artists. The wide variety of media and artist interests makes for a pleasant time of exploration while perusing the art.

Beautiful artworks and nice staff 👌

Our favorite art gallery in Carmel by the Sea. Every time we are in Carmel we stop by and enjoy the lovely gardens, the beautiful galleries of fine art, and the recent key features.

Had some art to donate as it was not our style. Sally was awesome from start to finish. Beautiful work throughout this gallery.

The collection is nice and you must consider a visit if you are looking to buy art.

Love annual sojourn to this place....used to visit with my parents & now my kids growing up

Talented local artists offer their work for sale. Lots of styles and scenes from peninsula favorite places in oil and water color. Some lovely sculptures as well. Always a pleasure to visit.

The staff at the Carmel Library are all the kindness and most caring people. They host some fabulous events, and every person that works there is kind, considerate and always makes me feel welcome and valued. Very grateful for this gem in Carmel and all the wonderful individuals that work there and take great care of the visitors and the beautiful library. It's truly a unique experience and I always feel uplifted after being there. Thank you so very much.

Gorgeous library with a nicely landscaped exterior garden

Very cute library

They have had several amusing creative events lately...nature sketches, jewelry making, and today we made masks for Halloween. Was fun!

Legendary Berkeley architect Bernard Maybeck designed this 1928 structure, named for California Supreme Court Justice Ralph Harrison, whose wife Ella Harrison financed it.

Harrison Memorial Library continues to be one of my favorite libraries for over 45+ years now. There is a comprehensive format of e-books, large print and audio books...oh yes, and did I mention 'real' books? In addition, there is a fantastic DVD collection. Best of all, knowledgeable staff are always on hand for reference and research. Harrison's 'Friends of the Library' regularly present guest authors and speakers which covers every genre. All right here in the magical village of Carmel!

Beautiful library - a haven of peace in the middle of the slightly touristy vibe of much of central Carmel. The range of books available is excellent and well curated (found some phenomenal local geology books here). The reading room is spacious and full of light.

Loved walking around cannery row - lots of cute shops and great places to eat

This plaza offers a nice view of the beach and ocean where you can also see seals. I bought a crew neck at a shop, and we enjoyed some sweet treats from Ghirardelli 's shop. Parking is limited, but we were lucky and found a spot. Overall, great area and lots to explore

This 3 story plaza contains multiple smalls shops including a water and kayak adventure center, several international clothing and spiritual items stores. The plaza sits on a corner just cross the street from a sandy plaza that bears a tribute bust to John Steinbeck. Small businesses here. Centrally located accessible restrooms with diaper changer in central Cannery Row area. Paid van accessible parking in garage which is a short walk. Street parking is limited

Steinbeck Plaza is right in the heart of historic Cannery Row in Monterey CA. This area is very lively. There is live music being played almost always and on days there's no live music, music still plays in the plaza. From the Plaza you can lookout over the Pacific Ocean and there's even coin operated telescopes so if you want to really look out there, you can. The Plaza has a huge fountain in the middle with statues of Steinbeck and other important people that were around back in the day. There is also beach access from the Steinbeck plaza and you can go right down to the beach and find seashells or get your feet wet. And if you're hungry, the Fish Hopper restaurant is always a wise choice.

Many shops and restaurants line the walk and street. The views of the bay are outstanding and the many sculptures are worth seeing. Be sure to try fresh sardines from one of the seafood places along the way. My kids loved this area and the aquarium.

Steinbeck Plaza it's such a quaint warm and inviting place to hang around observe some beautiful views of the ocean snack on delectable desserts and people watch. It's namesake John Steinbeck is celebrated with a beautiful bronze statue and a history of his connection to the Monterey peninsula. Everyone knows him as one of the great authors who was known for telling stories of the Old Monterey Bay fishing community. He is definitely celebrated all throughout the Monterey Bay Peninsula. So many beautiful colors all around you from the sparkling Emerald Pacific Ocean to the colorful buildings along the bay and the Beautiful art galleries around. A great place to stop for a quick bite to eat before heading into the Monterey Bay Aquarium or just strolling along the different shops. Lot of great photo opportunities all around you. It gets really busy on the weekend so expect some big crowds I love coming on a weekday where I can enjoy my own peaceful time to relax do some people watching and stare out into the ocean. Don't be afraid to explore there are so many little hidden Corners with Alleyways leading to the ocean giving you beautiful views.

Amazing weather around this time, so many shops and great places to eat, I can spend all day here.

We been to Monterey old fisherman wharf many times and this is the first time that we stepped into this small but interesting custom house museum! The museum staff (a lady) was super nice and friendly, her knowledge of this museum was amazing. The short conversation that I had with her was very educational and enjoyable! I highly recommend you to come visit this free admission place!

I just finished touring these Sate Park run historical places; Custom House, Pacific House, the Whaling house, Memory garden and California’s first theatre. I am AMAZED by the rich history. For example, did you know Monterey was the first Capital of California??? Awesome your, gorgeous area! Thank you California State Parks and all the volunteers and organization that give this to us!!!!

The Custom House is exactly what you think it was. It was constructed in 1827 by the Mexican Government to collect custom duties from foreign shipping, a principal revenue source when Monterey was the capital of Alta California. There are nice displays of the type of items that came through here for sale/trade. The are docents here to answer questions and a nice gift show with random nicknacks to purchase. It is located right next to the Fisherman’s Wharf so it’s a nice stop before or after your stroll along the wharf to learn more about California history.

Exploring the ancient historical goods was fascinating, and it offered valuable insights into the past. However, I'm giving it four stars as I wish there was a bit more interactive engagement available for visitors. Overall, a worthwhile experience for history enthusiasts.

The tea brick is one of the coolest things I've ever seen! 🍵

A cool little stop if you're into Californian history. The building itself is free to enter and holds a collection of items that are either historical or give some context to the history. I highly recommend the tour, which happens once every two hours, and not only covers the history of the Custom House but also takes you to other historical buildings in the area. Our tour guide, Stuart, was very knowledgeable and passionate about the area's history and shared a ton of interesting anecdotes about the various people who built and owned the buildings.

Custom House Museum in Monterey, California Historical Landmark #1, displays sone of the most Intriguing history of CA that I've ever seen. Docents are knowledgeable and the displays are full of wonderful reminders of our state's rich history. Highly, highly recommend!

Beautiful redwood tree and unique looking with dropping branches like a weeping willow. The most amazing part is knowing the seed for this tree actually went into space in an Apollo shuttle. It’s on the ground of city Hall of Monterey which has a small free museum nearby too. That was an extra bonus.

super cool nugget of history here - in 1971, a bunch of seeds were taken to the moon and then were brought back to earth to be studied to see if and how space affected the seeds at all. I definitely recommend looking up and reading the full story of the seeds’ trip to the moon! unfortunately, like we humans often do, the trees were put on the back burner and not given the attention they deserved, and not many of the 400 seedlings were tracked and so we only know where a handful of them are now. but I’m happy one of them made it to Monterey and has been cared for well! lots of other nice plants in this area as well, along with the interesting and disturbing history behind the jail and Colton Hall…

Didn't know tree existed! Neat story, but tree is nondescript. Because you're in the area might as well drop by for a pic. Not many people have seen a Moon Tree. See other peoples' posts for pics. Next to tree is historic building in which the California constitutional convention was held as well as a historic jail.

Really cool to see a tree grown from a space seed

Free to visit with free parking nearby. Pretty tree, but nothing special.

I thought it was suppose to be tall enough to touch the moon but it was cool regardless

Cool tree, with a cool origin, right in a nice little park. Great spot to stop and relax for a little bit.

Southebys is setting up for car 🚙 week 2023,added some pics. Small ice skating rink setup, fun for all ages. JJ Hogs at Rod, here today and tomorrow, nice selection, added a few pics. Another update, Greek festival was here today with food, music and other items. Update - open again this weekend. Added a few pics and videos. Monterey Outdoor Market was open to the public starting this weekend and will be open certain weekends in the future (see websites at the bottom of the sign). About 20 vendors out there today, varying hand 🖐️ made items- jewelry, caps, t-shirts, sweatshirts, woodcarving, signs, coat hanging, and a bubble 🗯 guy around the corner for the kids (who were having a blast)!! Pay for parking, which is limited. Wharf is very short walk from the Plaza. Enjoy the reopening of the festivals.

Went to custom house plaza for the Jade show!! There was no whare to park for Handicapped people! Never mind regular parking, now are to park, 6to7 blocks, all taken! Wasted gass to go,the the Jade festival, that is really messed up🤬very upset about the way they did not provide for Handicapped people or even regular parking, will never go again!

Here are some rare flowers that grow here, people pick them so you don’t always get to see them. The gardens at the park are 5 star, but not the way they run the place.

The plaza is beautiful and lively, right on the harbor and pier with plenty to do and see. The custom house is well preserved and very fun. The park rangers are great and full of information.

A beautiful & historic place that has many outdoor events for the public. Nice people running this place.

Beautiful, historical, well-maintained, often the epicentre of major events in Monterey.

Attended the Greek festival, great food , music, arts, clothing, wine, beer, great atmoshere

California Historical Landmark #1 holds significant historical value, and it's worth a visit to appreciate the rich history of the state. Nonetheless, an essential stop for history buffs.

On winning its independence from Spain in 1821, Mexico repealed the Spanish laws forbidding foreign trade and the California hide and tallow trade soon developed with New England. The Mexican Government erected the Custom House at Monterey, then the capital of Mexican California, in 1827, and until 1845, this was the only custom house north of Mexico. It was here on July 7, 1846 Commodore John D. Sloat, commander of the U.S. Pacific squadron, first raised the American flag and officially proclaimed California to be a part of the United States.

Can’t go inside, but has the history of the building in a plaque in front of the building

Beautiful place. Lots of history.

(Translated by Google) A house with a historical background. (Original) Ein Haus mit Historischen HIntergrund.

Maybe perhaps not the most ideal place to take the iconic pictures of Monterey Bay, but this particular location is definitely very picturesque its own right. Give you a good view of the harbor and the activity around. It's sort of akin to fisherman's wharf in San Francisco, with a lot of tourists and a lot of tourist trap restaurants and shops. Not to imply that one shouldn't go there; it's kind of fun to walk down the wharf area in sample of various foods that are being offered.

Nice aspect of the Monterey bay Fishermans Wharf! After walking down the wharf, trying all the various vendors clam chowder, browsing some stores and eating too much, this is a nice place to stand and look out on the wildlife and boats in the area. There is always a ton of birds and seals to see and hear. And there are couple coin op binoculars you can use to look a little further out. In particular I really enjoy the wildlife on the pier straight out front.

Great view of Monterey Bay.

Stop by Thurs. thru Sun. and you can see the first safe in Monterey (circa 1849) and find great books on the history of old Monterey (my personal favorites) and 'old style' playthings for children, candy, and small items for the home. The 'Walk of History' brochure with map and various historic gardens of Monterey brochures are also available for free. I stop by here when I bring out-of-town guests to visit the historic sights and gardens of Monterey.

It is the store for the historical site it sits on. Lots of interesting items for gifts and souvenirs. It is run by volunteers who love our Cslifornua Parks & Rec. They have books and games, replica tea setsand writing sets, maps... totally worth visiting and shopping at!

Great small shop run by volunteers, with clever gift items and a broad selection of local history products. Several small local entrepreneurs stock their unique merchandise there. It is run by volunteers so has somewhat limited hours.

Wonderful hostess gifts of local foods. Don't miss a walk through the garden!

Quaint, nice place to drop in and buy souvenirs. Visited this site because it is a also a California Historical Landmark.

Not that this location provides a lot of details or breadth in the Cannery Row worker experience of the early twentieth century, but this area along so-called "Bruce Arris Way" does give a very tiny glimpse into the spartan conditions that the Cannery workers endured. Work a look -- a quick detour adjacent to and easily accessible from Cannery Row.

More info about the huts themselves would have been appreciated