This famous Monterey playground is located in the El Estero Park. First opened in 1956, the park has undergone various renovations with the most recent in 2005. Named after the comic character by Hank Ketchum, the park features a toddler area and larger slides and structures meant for older children. A maze with a lookout tower, climbing wall, suspension bridge and statue of Dennis himself, this park is full of fun for kids of all ages.
The San Carlos Cathedral, also known as Royal Presidio Chapel, was constructed in the 1770s. As the oldest functioning Catholic Church and the first stone building in the state of California, this cathedral's significance to local history is undeniable. The beautiful architectural style of this cathedral is breathtaking, with Spanish and Moorish influences.
Tucked away amidst sprawling farms in the vast countryside, Pierce Ranch Vineyards is where some of the city's finest wines come to life. Spanning a massive 30 acres (12.14 hectares) of vineyards and farmland, everything that goes into the wine is grown on-site, which helps maintain consistency in flavor and texture. Regular tours of the vineyard offer a glimpse of what it takes to produce a fine batch of wine. Visitors can witness the various stages of production, from the picking of fruits, to the barreling and ageing process.
The gorgeous Monterey State Beach is the perfect setting for an afternoon of family fun in the sun. From swimming, fishing, boating, making sand castles, flying kites, kayaking and more, the range of outdoor activities are endless here. Its lengthy stretch of sand and gentle breeze also makes it favorable for a healthy walk or a jog. Be prepared for cold weather, the fog rolls in quickly here, so be sure to pack an extra layer of clothing!
A striking ensemble of time-honored landmarks comprise the Monterey State Historic Park. You can tour numerous historic period homes that date back to the 1800s as well as early adobe buildings. Each house has been restored to its original condition and is decorated with authentic antiques to match. There are also gardens you can explore. Come experience a piece of regional history and culture. Admission to the park is free.
Walk amidst a spectacular display of contemporary works of art at Green Chalk Contemporary. Aimed at promoting contemporary art, this gallery features works by budding local artists, as well as a collection of exhibits by famous artists from around the world. Its fine mix of local and international works of art, creates a rather diverse display of different cultures. Gracing this gallery are spectacular exhibits by renowned artists such as Anne Marchand, Richard Wittaker, Francie Hester and Tom Nakashima.
This internationally renowned gallery specializes in Early Californian and American paintings dating from 1880 through 1945. It also represents several estates. The gallery has produced several exceptional publications through the years and is always on the hunt for quality impressionist and modernist paintings from the aforementioned time period. Artists represented include Maurice Braun, Guy Rose, William Wendt, Edgar Payne, Granville Redmond and John Gamble. It is a must-see for any art lover while visiting the Carmel area.
The historic building that houses the Golden Bough Theatre was occupied by the Carmel Arts and Crafts Club for nearly 100 years. It continues its legacy as a center for creativity as a performance site for the Pacific Repertory Theatre. The Circle Theatre, a round stage venue, is located just below the Golden Bough playhouse.
Art exhibits are held year-round in the gallery portion of this venue, while small onstage productions take place in adjacent Cherry Hall. (The word "hall" is a bit of a misnomer as the theater seats only 50 people.) This is quite the community venue. It has been established for more than 50 years. Its small size and central location make it ideal for experimental and children's theater groups. The gallery shows a broad spectrum of styles and media, often featuring local artists and crafters. Note: Credit card acceptance varies by event. See website for schedules and more.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast who revels in thrilling adventures, then Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is for you. Vast green spaces, rich wildlife, and protected marine habitats are what you can expect during your trip to this expansive state park. Exciting marine excursions, including scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, await visitors. Seals, gray whales, sea otters, and sea lions are some of the magnificent creatures that call these waters home. Apart from all this, avid hikers can embark on exhilarating explorations of the trails winding through Point Lobos.
This historic adobe establishment was constructed in 1847, and has been used over the years as a tavern, courthouse, and even a newspaper office. The 19th-century building, is today converted into a musem delineating tales of California's history as well as governance of the state. The interactive displays and exhibits also walk visitors through the exciting and rich history of the city of Monterey when it was the capital Alta California, a Spanish province.
This Monterey Peninsula state beach is a beautiful sandy beach with rocky inlets. It features a 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) long wooden boardwalk that cuts through the scenic dunes, and is popular with locals who love strolling along the coastal stretch. While visitors are encouraged to bask in the beauty of this picturesque beach at leisure, they are not allowed to collect or take home any natural souvenirs from the beach. As a protected site, no fishing is allowed in the area either. However, dogs are allowed on the beach as long as they are on a leash.