National Steinbeck Center Tours

National Steinbeck Center featuring interior views
National Steinbeck Center featuring a memorial, interior views and signage
National Steinbeck Center which includes interior views, signage and modern architecture
National Steinbeck Center featuring signage and interior views
National Steinbeck Center showing signage and interior views


Immerse yourself in the life, times and works of legendary American novelist John Steinbeck through memorabilia, photos, journals and film. 

John Steinbeck was a celebrated American novelist and winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. The National Steinbeck Center celebrates his work through photos, artifacts, interactive exhibits and the author’s personal belongings. It also explores the area’s agricultural history, which was a major influence on Steinbeck’s work.

Separate rooms at the center are dedicated to each of Steinbeck’s major works. See the author’s journals and early notes for the novels East of Eden, The Grapes of Wrath and Of Mice and Men. The permanent collection here also includes objects that inspired or were featured in the author’s books. You’ll see Rocinante, the camper van in which Steinbeck drove across the country for three months in 1960, a trip which inspired Travels with Charley: In Search of America.

There’s a fine collection of World War II memorabilia from Bombs Away and the canisters from the marine biology lab in Monterey that features in Cannery Row. Watch portions of the many Hollywood movies based on Steinbeck’s books. There are also photos of local migrant camps taken during Steinbeck’s visits, as well as artists’ depictions of characters and settings from certain novels.

Visit the Rabobank Agricultural Museum, part of the center. This interactive museum explores 200 years of California’s agricultural history. Discover the journey a head of lettuce takes, from growing in the fields to ending up on a plate. There are sections dedicated to notable workers and cultural movements, such as labor leader Cesar Chavez and the development of the United Farm Workers Union. The museum also looks at the technology used to keep produce fresh during export and the development of cropping technology, from the horse-drawn plough to worker-operated tractors.

The National Steinbeck Center is located in downtown Salinas, Steinbeck’s former hometown, a half-hour drive from downtown Monterey. Just a short stroll away is the author’s childhood home, Steinbeck House, which includes a restaurant and gift shop. The center is open daily except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.

Plan a trip to see National Steinbeck Center

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Vendange Carmel Inn & Suites
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Hyatt Carmel Highlands

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near National Steinbeck Center

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey

2 out of 5
100 Reservation Rd, Marina, CA
Motel 6 Marina, CA - Monterey
Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay

2.5 out of 5
416 Reservation Rd, Hwy 1 To Rservation Road, Marina, CA
Monarch Valley Inn Marina at Monterey Bay
Ramada by Wyndham Marina

Ramada by Wyndham Marina

2 out of 5
323 Reservation Road, Marina, CA
Ramada by Wyndham Marina
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA

2.5 out of 5
3280 Dunes Drive, Marina, CA
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA
Best Western Marina State Beach

Best Western Marina State Beach

3 out of 5
3290 Dunes Road, Marina, CA
Best Western Marina State Beach
SpringHill Suites by Marriott The Dunes On Monterey Bay

SpringHill Suites by Marriott The Dunes On Monterey Bay

3 out of 5
215 10th Street, Marina, CA
SpringHill Suites by Marriott The Dunes On Monterey Bay
Hampton Inn & Suites Marina

Hampton Inn & Suites Marina

2.5 out of 5
120 Reservation Rd, Marina, CA
Hampton Inn & Suites Marina
Home2 Suites by Hilton at the Dunes on Monterey Bay

Home2 Suites by Hilton at the Dunes on Monterey Bay

3 out of 5
225 10th Street, Marina, CA
Home2 Suites by Hilton at the Dunes on Monterey Bay
Sanctuary Beach Resort

Sanctuary Beach Resort

4.5 out of 5
3295 Dunes Rd, Marina, CA
Sanctuary Beach Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near National Steinbeck Center

When visiting the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, California, don’t miss the chance to explore the Steinbeck Museum and enjoy Salinas wine tours. For a unique experience, consider circus arts activities and discover the local culture through a museum visit. Additionally, plan for exciting Salinas day trips to fully immerse yourself in the area’s offerings, including sports and biking options nearby.

Food and drinks

For a delightful meal, visit Steinbeck House, just 0.2 miles from the National Steinbeck Center, offering a cozy atmosphere. For wine enthusiasts, Folktale Winery and Bernardus Winery Tasting Room, both 14 miles away, provide a romantic setting with exquisite tastings and entertainment.

Shopping

Northridge Mall, located 3 miles away from the National Steinbeck Center, offers a vibrant shopping experience with family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, Hamlin Antiques is 11 miles away, and Del Monte Shopping Center, 15 miles away, provides more shopping options with a mix of entertainment and city atmosphere.

Recreation

The Salinas Sports Complex offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, just a mile from the National Steinbeck Center. For golf lovers, Salinas Fairways Golf Course, located two miles away, provides a scenic outdoor experience. For relaxation, Lovers Point, 15 miles away, is perfect for unwinding amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 8 miles from the National Steinbeck Center, where adrenaline and speed meet. For a scenic adventure, hike the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trailhead, 13 miles away, offering breathtaking landscapes and outdoor excitement.

Nightlife

Catch a show at the Golden State Theatre for a romantic evening or explore the stars at Fremont Peak Observatory for a family-friendly experience. For some adventure, challenge yourself at the Monterey Mirror Maze & Lazer Challenge. Each venue offers a unique nightlife vibe!

Find the best attractions near National Steinbeck Center

When visiting the National Steinbeck Center in Oldtown Salinas, California, you can explore a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches and nearby national parks. This area caters to those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Don't miss the National Steinbeck Center museum, known for its great exhibits, and consider visiting Monterey Bay for additional scenic beauty and activities. Reviews highlight the center's significance in understanding Steinbeck's legacy.

  • California State University Monterey Bay: This modern university, located just 8 miles from the National Steinbeck Center, offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with contemporary architecture and beautiful views. Explore the engaging community and perhaps catch a lecture or event.
  • Monterey Bay: About 18 miles away, this stunning bay provides breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Enjoy the picturesque beaches, take a stroll along the waterfront, or engage in marine wildlife watching for an unforgettable experience.
  • California Rodeo Grounds: Located just 1 mile from the National Steinbeck Center, this lively stadium hosts exciting rodeo events. Experience the thrill of American rodeo culture and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of local sports.

Best time to go to National Steinbeck Center

Visitor numbers around National Steinbeck Center is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit National Steinbeck Center can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around National Steinbeck Center falls in August and September. August has slightly high visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around National Steinbeck Center falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April53.8°F (12.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May56.3°F (13.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
June60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
July63.0°F (17.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August63.7°F (17.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September63.7°F (17.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October60.8°F (16.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November54.7°F (12.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for National Steinbeck Center

To save money on your visit to the National Steinbeck Center, consider traveling between November and January for lower hotel rates. Explore nearby free attractions like California State University Monterey Bay and Marina State Beach. Book accommodations about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Utilize Expedia’s search tools to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals for flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn cash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around National Steinbeck Center are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around National Steinbeck Center is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to customize your travel plans based on your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the National Steinbeck Center with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.