3 Best Landmarks in Salinas, CA

“National Steinbeck Center houses the most extensive collection of Steinbeck archives in the United States, featuring various exhibits that delve into his philosophy and body of work. Moreover, the center serves as a focal point for activities aimed at fostering learning about literature, human nature, history, agriculture, and the arts. John Steinbeck achieved worldwide recognition for his vivid depictions of the human condition his profound understanding of the "common man" and his astute observations. The center offers numerous educational programs catering to the public, students, and teachers, providing a multimedia experience for regional and national audiences. Furthermore, the National Steinbeck Center offers free admission for Active Duty Military and their Families on Memorial Day and Labor Day. Additionally, the museum continues to offer robust virtual offerings through its website and social media channels, ensuring accessibility to its resources beyond physical visitation. Free Admission For Children 5 and Under and Members.”

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“Boronda Adobe was built by José Eusebio Boronda, and the Boronda Adobe History Center was constructed between 1844 and 1848 in the grasslands of the lower Salinas Valley. José Eusebio was the third son of José Manuel Boronda and Maria Gertrudis. The Borondas sustained themselves through subsistence farming, husbandry, bartering goods, and outside employment. By the turn of the 20th century, a lean-to kitchen was added to the structure, and the back porch was enclosed to provide additional workspace for the family's leather, metal, and wood manufacturing activities. In the mid-1800s, before the advent of refrigeration, food preservation relied on drying and smoking, with stored items kept in the loft. The central room of the adobe, known as the "sala," served as a multi-purpose area for various family activities. In the evenings, the "sala" was transformed into a space for music and dancing, while the side porches were enclosed to offer extra room.”

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“Monterey & Salinas Valley Railroad Museum hosts an interactive HO-scale layout and diorama recreating Monterey County railroads from the mid-1900s. The Museum is located at the historical Railway Express Agency (REA) building next to the Amtrak station. They also host an open house for free to the public on the first weekend of each month! All Aboard. They provide free admission. The Museum now offers Personal Tours and Special Gatherings. Working with the local community, they provide experiential educational opportunities for children of all ages to enhance their knowledge of railroad impact in the Salinas Valley within their core academic curriculum and to inspire civic involvement. Monterey & Salinas Valley Railroad Museum has a parking space, and they continue to build the historical society and serve their community. Admission is Free.”

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