Visit Monterey's Historic Landmarks
Feb 23, 2024
Here in Monterey, every street corner tells a story of its rich history. Whether you love learning about the past or simply want to experience the essence of Monterey, exploring its historic landmarks enhances your visit with a deeper appreciation of its heritage. Let's embark on a journey through time as we explore some of Monterey's historic landmarks, all within walking distance from our doorstep!
Cannery Row
Cannery Row stands as a testament to Monterey's industrial past. Once a bustling hub of sardine canning factories, today it has transformed into a vibrant waterfront district filled with shops, restaurants, and the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Cannery Row also holds a special place in literary history as the setting for John Steinbeck's novel of the same name. Stroll along the row and immerse yourself in its lively atmosphere while imagining its bustling past.
Old Fisherman's Wharf
A leisurely 3-minute stroll from the hotel leads you to Old Fisherman's Wharf, where Monterey's seafaring history is still evident. Originally constructed in the mid-19th century by Thomas Larkin, the wharf served as the primary commercial port for Monterey, bustling with fishermen unloading their catches of the day. Over the years, it has witnessed many changes from maritime trade, including the boom of the sardine industry to the transition to a tourist destination. Today, Old Fisherman's Wharf is filled with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and gorgeous harbor views. 
Custom House
Wander to Custom House, just a stone's throw from the hotel, and discover the oldest government building in California. Built in 1827, this adobe structure served as the primary port of entry for California during the Mexican period. Today, Custom House is a museum showing what may have come through during that time.
Colton Hall
A 10-minute walk from Portola Hotel & Spa, Colton Hall holds a special place in California history as it was the place where the state was born. The building represents where California's first constitution was drafted in 1849. Step inside this historic adobe building and explore its exhibits Thursday - Sunday, 10am - 4pm.
Monterey State Historic Park
Encompassing numerous adobe buildings and gardens, Monterey State Historic Park provides a captivating glimpse into the city's past. Explore historic buildings such as the Casa Soberanes and the Pacific House Museum, or the historic gardens like Memory Garden and Custom House Cactus Garden, each offering a unique glance into Monterey's history.
Cooper-Molera Adobe
A short distance from Portola Hotel & Spa, another Monterey's Historic landmark is the Cooper-Molera Adobe. Built in the early 19th century, this adobe home represents the history of the families that inhabited and contributed to the development of Monterey, from Mexican Alta California to when it became the State of California. Take a tour to learn about the lives of these families who once resided here and explore the beautifully preserved interiors. The Adobe is also home to Alta Bakery + Cafe, a quaint eatery with delicious pastries and a wonderful coffee and tea menu. Don't forget to enjoy your time in the beautiful garden behind the Adobe when you visit!
Wander to Monterey's Historic Landmarks
As you roam these storied streets, you'll find yourself immersed in Monterey's historic landmarks. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking to wander through our charming town, Monterey welcomes you to discover it all. From our quaint streets to the picturesque coastline, there's something for everyone to enjoy. To book your stay at Portola Hotel & Spa, visit our website, or call us at (888)-222-5851.
Latest Articles
A Weekend Trip to Monterey
While there’s no shortage of things to do in Monterey, it is not always necessary to take a full week to explore this part of California. It is totally possible to experience what Monterey has to offer in one weekend, so we have created an itinerary for your weekend trip so that you can experience this destination without taking extra days off!
Portola Book Club! April Pick: The Celebrants by Steven Rowley
Welcome back to another Portola Book Club blog! We’re excited to jump back in as we continue to share a novel that has some significance to our beautiful destination. Monterey County has a rich literary history, making it a dream for literary tourism, and allowing visitors to explore the places that have shaped some of the most iconic stories while discovering new favorites along the way. As always, we’ll have copies of this month’s book available to borrow in our lobby library.
Best Places to Go on a Nature Walk in Monterey County
One of the most relaxing things you can add to your Monterey itinerary is a nature walk. The stunning landscapes of Monterey County, featuring rugged coastlines and towering forests, beckon travelers for a reset in nature. With many trails to choose from, finding a location for a nature walk is easy. In this week’s blog, you’ll learn about trails that take you to the coast and others that take you towards the forest. No matter which trails you head to, you are sure to get a good dose of Monterey County’s natural beauty.
Portola Book Club! March Pick: Typewriter Beach by Meg Waite Clayton
Another month, another Portola Book Club blog! We’re excited to continue our series where each month we share novels share some significance to our beautiful destination. Since Monterey County rich in literary history, it’s a dream for literary tourism, and welcoming visitors to explore the places that have shaped iconic stories while discovering new favorites along the way. As always, we’ll have copies of this month’s book available to borrow in our lobby library.
Explore Monterey
7 Day Monterey Itinerary: The Best of Monterey County Without Feeling Rushed
With so many sites and attractions in Monterey County, planning a week-long getaway might feel overwhelming so we mapped out the perfect 7-day Monterey itinerary. This week-long adventure is designed to help you experience the best of the coast without feeling rushed. If you’re boarding the new nonstop from Chicago to Monterey then this plan brings you the best of the week from the Saturday you arrive to the Saturday you head home!
Monterey: A Place of Literary Inspiration
In this week’s blog we explore Monterey and its surrounding areas as a literary inspiration. Written by our own Concierge, Chris Boyle, you’ll uncover the most scenic locations that inspired some of the most renowned writers, and discover how to experience them on your next visit to Monterey County!
Plan the Best Holiday Event: Q&A with Our Catering Team
The holidays are just around the corner, and Portola Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to host your holiday event! For this week’s blog, we sat down with our Catering Team to talk all things festive, from what makes holiday events at Portola so special to their expert tips for creating a celebration that feels effortless, memorable, and uniquely yours.
Holiday Events in Monterey
This holiday season, Monterey offers a wonderful array of events for everyone to enjoy! Don't miss the holiday magic and memories you'll create this winter by visiting Monterey. Check out all the wonderful holiday magic happening this season!
What's on Alvarado Street
The Portola Hotel & Spa is centrally located in downtown Monterey with Old Fisherman's Wharf only a 5-minute walk from the hotel, but less than a minute away is the heart of downtown Monterey, Alvarado Street.
Explore Monterey Family Fun
Best Monterey Beach Day Tips
Monterey boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in California with each beach so unique. We're sharing our top Monterey beach day tips to help you enjoy the coast and make the most of your day by the sea!
6 Events to Attend during Monterey Car Week 2025
Auto enthusiasts are likely to have already heard of the world-renowned Monterey Car Week, with major events dotting the Peninsula.
Explore Monterey
3 Scenic Routes in Monterey
While Monterey boasts some of the most beautiful trails in the world, going in a car allows you to see more of the Monterey coastline that isn't quite walkable.
Explore Monterey
Our Guide to a Perfect Day at Old Fisherman's Wharf
Old Fisherman's Wharf is home to many different business including attractions, shops and resturants. Here are our top recommendations for the perfect day!
Explore Monterey Family Fun
Dog Friendly Activities in Monterey County: A Guide for Guests With Dogs
Explore the best Dog Friendly Activities in Monterey for guests of the Portola Hotel & Spa.
Explore Monterey Family Fun Festivals & Local Events
Spring Events in Monterey County
Spring is here! With the new season, we can’t wait for all the springtime events. Check out these spring events in Monterey County we’re looking forward to!
Explore Monterey Family Fun
Unveiling Hidden Gems in Monterey
Hidden gems and lesser-known activities and attractions offer unique experiences away from the hustle and bustle. Let's explore hidden gems in Monterey.