Things to do in Monterey

Old Town Neighborhood describes the area bounded by Pacific Street on the east, Madison Street/creek on the south, uphill to Veteran’s Park on the west, and the Presidio on the north.  Affectionately known by locals as “Spaghetti Hill,” the homes reflect a diverse collection of architectural styles, many of which are considered historic.

Monterey has a rich history dating back thousands of years to the Rumsien/Ohlone native people who settled on our bay. This was followed by the founding of a settlement by the Spanish in 1770. Some of the buildings in Monterey still standing today date from this era. The California State Parks have marked a Path of History by yellow round sidewalk markers. The link below is a guide to the Path of History throughout downtown. The history of the various buildings can be listened to on your mobile device using the code number at the site markers.

Take a walking tour of our many historic civic buildings and homes, including The Frank Hellam House (Hellam House) and discover the rich history of Monterey.

Visit Historic Homes Walk

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas 

First Saturday of every month from 10am to noon. Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories 

Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc" was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at The City of Monterey Museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey 

Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay leads up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town. For more information, please call (831) 646-5648, or email museumpt@monterey.gov.