Best Things to do in Salinas | Must-see attractions 2025

Monterey Zoo

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

400 River Rd (Pine Canyon)

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Monterey Zoo in Salinas houses over 100 animals, promoting conservation and education. Daily tours available, despite ongoing construction.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Paid. Tours are available for a nominal fee.

Salinas Sports Complex

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Stadium

1034 N Main St

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Salinas Sports Complex in California is a key destination for sports events, featuring multiple facilities and fields for various athletic competitions.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free for general access. Some sports events may have ticket fees.

Northridge Mall

Mo-Su 11:00-20:00; Fr,Sa 10:00-21:00

Mall

796 Northridge Mall (at N Main St)

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Northridge Mall in Salinas features over 120 stores, including major retailers like Macy's and JCPenney, plus a movie theater and dining options.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events or specific store promotions may have costs.

Tatum's Garden

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Amusement Park

Maryal Drive (E. Bernal Drive)

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Tatum's Garden is a community playground in Salinas, California, designed for children and families, featuring unique play structures and green spaces.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No charges for entry or use of facilities.

Closter Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Salinas

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Closter Park in Salinas, California, offers recreational facilities and natural beauty, ideal for family outings and outdoor activities.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Some organized events may require a registration fee.

Broadway Bingo

1:00 PM–12:00 AM

Casino

15 W Bernal Dr (at Main)

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Broadway Bingo in Salinas offers a lively gaming experience with numerous bingo events and an inviting atmosphere for players of all ages.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Varies by event; regular games start at $10 per session.

Salinas Municipal Airport

Open 24 hours

Airport

30 Mortensen Ave (at Skyway Blvd.)

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Salinas Municipal Airport offers general aviation services and connects the city of Salinas, California, to various destinations, featuring a single asphalt runway and key facilities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for public access. Some special events may have fees.

Salinas AMTRAK

5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Train Station

11 Station Pl.

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Salinas AMTRAK is a railway station located in Salinas, California, providing regional service for travelers along the scenic California coast.

Duration: 1-2 hours is recommended for ticketing and waiting.

Based on travel route and distance; inquire locally for current fare information.

Steinbeck Institute of Arts and Culture

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

940 N Main St

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The Steinbeck Institute of Arts and Culture in Salinas, USA, celebrates the life and works of author John Steinbeck through exhibitions, events, and educational programs.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

National Steinbeck Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1 Main St

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The National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, CA, showcases the life and works of Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Duration: About 2 hours.

General Admission: $10, Students/Seniors: $7, Children under 12: Free.

Toro County Park

7:00 AM–sunset

Park

501 Monterey-Salinas Highway 68

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Toro County Park, a 4,756-acre park in Salinas, California, features over 20 miles of hiking trails, riding paths, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some events may require registration or additional fees.

Monterey County Parks Department

8:00 AM–sunset

Public Building

1441 Schilling Pl

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Monterey County Parks Department oversees various parks in Salinas, California, promoting outdoor recreation and conservation efforts across the region.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require an entrance fee.

Salinas Fairways Golf Course

6:30 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

45 Skyway Blvd

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Salinas Fairways Golf Course offers a challenging 18-hole layout, located in Salinas, California, known for its picturesque views and well-maintained greens.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

$35 for adults; $20 for juniors. Discounts available for seniors on weekdays.

ARIEL Theatrical

11:00 AM–7:00 PM

Theater

320 Main St

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ARIEL Theatrical in Salinas, USA, presents diverse performances, fostering community arts since its inception in 2001 with a focus on youth engagement.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Tickets typically range from $10 to $30, with discounts for seniors and students.

The Western Stage

Box Office: 1:00 PM–5:00 PM

Theater

411 Central Ave

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The Western Stage in Salinas offers professional live theater performances, showcasing diverse plays and engaging local talent in an intimate setting.

Duration: 2 hours for a typical performance.

Tickets typically range from $15 to $30, with discounts for students and seniors.

Petra Bible Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Salinas

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Petra Bible Church in Salinas, California, engages the community through worship, outreach, and various programs, fostering a welcoming environment for spiritual growth.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

First Fridays Art Walk

5:00 PM–9:00 PM

Gallery

222 Main Street

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First Fridays Art Walk in Salinas showcases local artists' work monthly, fostering community engagement and creativity in the heart of California.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

1st Fridays Art Walk

5:00 PM–9:00 PM

Gallery

100-300 Main Street (Alisal Street)

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1st Fridays Art Walk in Salinas showcases local art and culture on the first Friday of each month, featuring galleries, live music, and community engagement.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free.

Sherwood Gardens Shopping Center

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

933 N Main St

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Sherwood Gardens Shopping Center in Salinas features a diverse array of stores and dining options, serving the local community since its founding in 1975.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. No entry fees are required to visit the shopping center.