Things to See & Do in Salinas

Salinas’ hospitality blends yesterday’s charm with today’s modern conveniences. The California Rodeo, California International Airshow, and the world famous Steinbeck Festival are major attractions of our colorful and diverse city. Visitors can also explore the nearby Monterey Peninsula, the historic missions of San Juan Bautista, Soledad, Carmel and San Antonio de Padua, the world-class wineries of South Monterey County, the beauty of nearby beaches, and Pinnacles National Monument.

Salinas and the Salinas Valley offer a unique combination of climate, natural resources,and people. Although agriculture forms an economic base, more than 100 manufacturingfirms call Salinas home.

Some of the largest employers in the area include: Dole Fresh Vegetable, the County of Monterey, and Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.

California Welcome Center Salinas

The California Welcome Center Salinas offers detailed information on where to eat and stay and a host of other options on what to do. There are promotional materials, brochures, souvenirs and a friendly staff ready to answer questions. Plus, there is a diverse array of unique local items to choose from as a memento to take home.

Railroad Depot/Intermodal Transit Center

Salinas’s Railroad Depot/Intermodal Transit Center at Station Place, just off Market Street, has many activities of interest for residents, students, and visitors. The Center is the home to the First Mayor’s Harvey Baker Historic House, the Salinas Valley Model Railroad Museum and the Steaming Ahead Historic Railroad Exhibit.

The First Mayor's House is a museum which helps to interpret early Salinas’ history. Tours and student events are available.

The Salinas Valley Model Railroad Museum is open to the public. The model railroad club members have constructed a model railroad that depicts rail history in the Salinas Valley, and Watsonville to Cuesta Grade in San Luis Obispo County.

Salinas is home to a collection of vintage rail cars and railroad signal equipment. Visit the restored steam locomotive, tender, wooden caboose and newly acquired 1923 refrigerator car. The site is open on the first Friday of each month. Classroom tours of the facility can be arranged by contacting the City of Salinas at (831) 758-7152.

Visit Salinas’ vibrant historic depot site and take in the sites from local history. All activities are family oriented and free. These sites are all open on the first Friday of each month from 5pm to 8pm as part of the activities of Old town Salinas’ First Friday   events. Old Town’s First Friday events also feature food, an art walk and music.

Chamber of Commerce

The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce supports and promotes diverse businesses and communities throughout the entire Salinas Valley through networking, education, and advocacy