3 Best Landmarks in Salinas, CA

“National Steinbeck Center is a memorial and museum dedicated to John Steinbeck. The museum is located at California State University, Monterey Bay, in Salinas City Center. John Steinbeck received worldwide recognition for his perception of the “common man” and his keen observations and strong descriptions of the human condition. The center has the most extensive collection of Steinbeck archives in the United States, with various exhibits on his philosophy and body of work. National Steinbeck Center is a focal point for activities that encourage learning about literature, human nature, history, agriculture, and the arts. They provide many educational programs for the public, students, and teachers, as well as a multimedia experience for regional and national audiences. They provide free admission for members, children 5 and under, and active duty military and families on Memorial Day and Labor Day.”

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“Boronda Adobe History Center was built by José Eusebio Boronda between 1844 and 1848 in the grasslands of the lower Salinas Valley. The site is built in the style of Monterey Colonial architecture. José Eusebio was the third son of José Manuel Boronda and Maria Gertrudis. The Borondas subsisted by subsistence farming and husbandry, bartering goods and outside employment. At the turn of the 20th century, a lean-to kitchen was added, and the back porch was boarded up to provide more workspace where they manufactured leather, metal, and wood items. Since there was no refrigeration in the mid-1800s, foods were preserved through drying and smoking and were stored in the loft. The central room was a multi-purpose sala" where most family activities took place. In the evening, the "sala" was the scene of music and dancing.”

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“Monterey & Salinas Valley Railroad Museum is located at the historical Railway Express Agency (REA) building next to the Amtrak station. The museum features an interactive HO scale layout and diorama recreating Monterey County railroads from the mid-1900s. The museum hosts an Open House that is free to the public on the first weekend of each month. The museum now offers personal tours and special gatherings. Working with the local community, the museum provides experiential educational opportunities for children of all ages to enhance their knowledge of the impact of railroads in the Salinas Valley within their core academic curriculum and to inspire civic involvement. The museum provides free admission. Monterey & Salinas Valley Railroad Museum has a parking space.”

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