Parks
36 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Nativiad Creek Park2.9 mi from downtown
- Clay Street Park0.5 mi from downtown
- Central Park0.6 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Salinas
5 kinds of free outings in and around Salinas.
Good days out in Salinas don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- John Steinbeck Library350 Lincoln Ave.
- El Gabilan Library1400 N. Main St.
- Cesar Chavez Library615 Williams Rd.
Historic places
8 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- John Steinbeck HouseBuilt 1897
- Monterey County Jail
- Sheriff William Joseph Nesbitt House
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve10 mi northwest
- Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary14 mi west
- White Oaks Campground25 mi south
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge9 mi northwest
- Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve10 mi northwest
- Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary14 mi west
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Places to see in Salinas part two!
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THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Top 10 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Salinas, California | USA - English
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What are free things to do in Salinas?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Salinas this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.