3 Best Places To See in Salinas, CA

Expert-recommended Top 3 Places To Visit in Salinas, California. All of our places to see actually face a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence. You deserve only the best!

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NATIONAL STEINBECK CENTER

1 Main Street,
Salinas, CA 93901 Directions

Since 1998

Specialty:

Guided Tours Teacher Resources Homeschool Programs Family Programs Summer Camps Outreach Programs Research Resources Volunteer Opportunities Membership Program Facility Rentals Educational Workshops Author Talks Museum Exhibitions Community Events Accessibility Services Virtual Learning Programs Youth Programs Gift Shop Special Events

"National Steinbeck Center is a major United States literary museum that is dedicated to a single author. The museum began as an initiative by the local community and civic leaders to create a medium for his writings and one that would encourage and launch successful literacy and educational programming. The National Steinbeck Center's permanent and special exhibits pay tribute not only to the life of Steinbeck but also to its commitment to the forgotten and disenfranchised individuals. All guests visiting the Center are greeted by a docent or staff member who will give a brief orientation and is available to answer questions throughout the self-guided tour. The National Steinbeck Center offers free admission for children under 5 and members.

2026 Highlights: The museum is an educational institution dedicated to inspiring visitors through the life, literature, and enduring legacy of Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck, featuring interactive exhibits, artifacts, and learning experiences."

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License #1227155

Price:

Adults: $15
Seniors And Students Ticket: $13
Teachers, And Monterey Co. Residents: $13
Active Duty Military And Families Ticket: $13
Children (Ages 6-17): $7
Membership Options
Virtual (Per Year) $50
Total Access (Per Year) $100
Total Access Plus (Per Year) $125

Discount:

20% Off on the Museum Store for Members View Coupon

Contact:

(831) 775-4721 (831) 772-7021

Mon-Sun: 10am - 5pm

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MONTEREY ZOO

400 River Road,
Salinas, CA 93908 Directions

Since 1994

Specialty:

Crunch Time Butch’s Bedtime Walk With The Animals Annual Passes Bears Elephants Hoofed and Toed Animals Birds Reptiles Amphibians Insects Pachyderm Package Viap and Rydables Tours Primates Fascinating Mammals Educational Programs Events Safari Camp Zoo Membership Animal Encounters Keeper Talks Behind-the-scenes Tours Animal Feedings Birthday Packages Group Visits School Field Trips Gift Shop Dining Services

Monterey Zoo is committed to providing visitors with an enjoyable and enlightening experience that promotes respect for all species. The zoo is dedicated to providing its animals with the largest, most naturalistic enclosures possible. Monterey Zoo is a fully accredited zoo with unique overnight accommodations for families. The zoo operates with a focus on entertaining, educational, and conservation-minded experiences that foster public awareness and respect for all wildlife. The zoo provides a variety of educational presentations that can be enjoyed at their facility, and some that can be brought to your school or event. Online gift shop purchases are also available for those concerned about sharing space with others indoors. Monterey Zoo offers free admission for children aged two and under.

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License #2995723

Price:

GENERAL ADMISSION:
Adults (Ages 15+): $37.25
Children (Ages 2-14): $27.50
Under 2 Free (Stroller Fee)$8
ANNUAL PASSES:
Starting At Only $125

Contact:

(831) 455-1901 (800) 228-7382

Mon-Sun: 10am - 3pm

TBR® Inspection Report:

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SALINAS SPORTS COMPLEX

1034 North Main Street,
Salinas, CA 93906 Directions

Since 1911

Specialty:

Events Private and Outdoor Events Stadiums Storm Softball Complex Sporting Arena Banquet Hall Facilities Maps Festival Celebrations Motorsports Entertainment Rental Requirements Parade Facility Rentals Community Programs Sports Tournaments Concerts Trade Shows Wedding Receptions Corporate Events Public Meetings Recreation Programs Special Event Permits

Salinas Sports Complex is operated by the California Rodeo Association, which gives back upwards of $500,000 to the local community each year. The complex's main feature is a 17,000-seat stadium for the California Rodeo Salinas. The Sports Complex was created by the California Rodeo Association in collaboration with the City of Salinas to hold a wide range of community and sporting events, including concerts, football and soccer games, motorsports competitions, festivals, and graduations. The facility is situated on 80 acres of City of Salinas-owned property in Sherwood Park. A 50-year lease between the City and the California Rodeo Association governs the management and upkeep of the facilities.

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Price:

2026 Salinas Rodeo Season Tickets
From $128.00
Upto $148.00

Contact:

(831) 775-3100 (800) 549-4989

Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm
Sat & Sun: Closed

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