LOCAL STREETS

Start with Oldtown

Steinbeck’s hometown, a working agricultural city and a downtown full of small discoveries. Salinas pairs literary history with neighborhood kitchens, independent stores and the everyday life of the valley.

Begin at the National Steinbeck Center, leave time for Main Street shops, then plan lunch at a local kitchen. The Steinbeck House is a separate stop on Central Avenue; confirm its restaurant and tour schedule before adding it. Ariel Theatrical and the Fox Theater require checking the current performance calendar.

Leave yourself a little room.

Pick a starting point and build from there. Confirm opening hours, access and reservations with the venue; this guide does not imply availability or an affiliation with the places mentioned.