National Steinbeck Center: A Literary Journey
Immerse yourself in the world of John Steinbeck at this captivating literary center in his hometown of Salinas, California.
Explore the life and works of Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck at this immersive museum in his hometown of Salinas. Discover interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, and themed theaters dedicated to his most famous novels.
A brief summary to National Steinbeck Center
- 1 Main St, Salinas, California, 93901, US
- +1831-775-4721
- Visit website
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the center's website for special events, lectures, and book signings that may coincide with your visit.
- Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the museum's interactive exhibits and themed theaters.
- Consider visiting the nearby Steinbeck House, his childhood home, for lunch or a tour.
- Take a walk through Salinas's Historic Downtown, with its cool shops and eateries.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're already in downtown Salinas, walking to the National Steinbeck Center is a convenient option. Head towards Main Street and look for 1 Main St. The center is at the intersection of Main Street and Gabilan Street. Look for the museum signage at the entrance.
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Public Transport
Take Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) Route 25, 23, or 20, which have stops in downtown Salinas. Get off at the Salinas Transit Center, a short walk from the National Steinbeck Center. Walk east on Alisal Street towards Main Street, then turn left onto Main Street. The center will be on your right. A single ride fare on MST is typically around $2.50.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 1 Main St, Salinas, CA 93901. The National Steinbeck Center is in downtown Salinas. Once you reach Main Street, look for available street parking or nearby parking lots. There is a parking garage right next to the NSC with low daily rates. Metered street parking typically costs around $1.50 per hour, with a 2-hour limit. Parking garages nearby charge around $8-$12 per day.
Discover more about National Steinbeck Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peter J. Bontadelli House
0.4 km
Explore the Peter J. Bontadelli House, a historical landmark in Salinas, CA, showcasing architectural elegance and rich local heritage, perfect for history lovers.
Krough House
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Samuel M. Black House
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Salinas Heritage Murals
1.0 km
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Fort Ord National Monument
11.4 km
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San Juan de Anza historic trail terminus
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Monterey State Beach
19.5 km
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Monterey County Fairgrounds
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San Juan Bautista State Historic Park
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Frank E. Sollecito Ballpark
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Fisherman’s Wharf
22.6 km
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Monterey Bay Whale Watch
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Monterey Harbor
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Old Fishermen's Grotto
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Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey
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Unmissable attractions to see
Harvey-Baker House
0.2 km
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Gold Leaf Spice & Teas, Inc
0.2 km
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Salinas Valley Art Gallery
0.2 km
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1st Fridays Art Walk
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California Welcome Center Salinas
0.3 km
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Central Park
1.0 km
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Hartnell College Planetarium
1.1 km
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Tatum's Garden
1.7 km
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Valley Center Bowl
1.9 km
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Salinas Sports Complex
1.9 km
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Cesar Chavez Community Park
2.1 km
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Claremont Manor Park
2.5 km
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Boronda Adobe History Center
3.4 km
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Closter Park
3.6 km
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The Farm in Salinas
4.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Tarpy's Roadhouse
18.8 km
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Tides Waterfront Kitchen
19.6 km
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Black Bear Diner Monterey
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Monterey Cookhouse
20.4 km
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Monterey's Fish House
20.5 km
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Sandbar & Grill
22.5 km
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Loulou's Griddle In the Middle
22.5 km
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Rockfish Harbor Grill
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Osteria Al Mare
22.6 km
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Crab House
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Abalonetti Bar and Grill
22.7 km
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Domenico's on the Wharf
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Crab Louie's Bistro
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Fish & Chips Cafe
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Café Fina
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Monterey Bay Silver Company
22.6 km
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Morning Star Pearls
22.6 km
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Pirate's Cove
22.7 km
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Sock Harbor
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Carousel Candies
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Wharf's General Store
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Ocean Front
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Harbor House
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Unique International Bazaar
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Monterey's Finest Apparel
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Gift Shop | Monterey Bay Aquarium
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Memories
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Sand and Sea
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The Pebble Beach Outlet Shop
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After the Quake
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Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
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The Wine Experience
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Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
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Pearl Hour
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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
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Compact Disco
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Alfredo's Cantina
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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
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Britannia Arms
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