The Atlas Obscura Guide To Salinas

3 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Salinas, California

Updated June 20, 2024

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Unusual Attractions in Salinas

Abandoned Fort Ord building.

Salinas, California

Fort Ord

Once America’s most beautiful army base, this abandoned military fort on the coast of Monterey Bay has been left to the elements.

Salinas, California

The Steinbeck House Restaurant

Eat a tasty meal in the house where John Steinbeck was born.

What was a blank wall became a mural incorporating elements from both Hildagan and Oaxacan cultures.

Salinas, California

Culturas Hidalgo y Oaxaca

Traditional, pre-Hispanic food is served alongside classic favorites in this family-owned Mexican restaurant.

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Cars for scale

Castroville, California

World's Largest Artichoke Statue

It should come as no surprise that the world's largest artichoke lies in the town that calls itself the "Artichoke Center of the World."

7 miles from Salinas

The barge seen during sunset.

Castroville, California

Sauce Bros Barge

An abandoned boat that's been stranded mysteriously for decades.

9 miles from Salinas

A cautious frog surveys the scene.

Moss Landing, California

Elkhorn Slough

More than 700 species live within this murky marvel of a swamp on California's coast.

11 miles from Salinas

Outside view of the Shakespeare Society of America.

Moss Landing, California

Shakespeare Society of America

An archive and museum with a mind-boggling collection of Shakespeare-related objects.

11 miles from Salinas

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Salinas

Salinas, California

The Steinbeck House Restaurant

Eat a tasty meal in the house where John Steinbeck was born.

What was a blank wall became a mural incorporating elements from both Hildagan and Oaxacan cultures.

Salinas, California

Culturas Hidalgo y Oaxaca

Traditional, pre-Hispanic food is served alongside classic favorites in this family-owned Mexican restaurant.

In partnership with GetYourGuide

Unforgettable Experiences Nearby

Atlas Obscura Itineraries

Discover the Surprising and Hidden History of Monterey County

Sponsored by See Monterey

Monterey County, nestled on California’s stunning Pacific Coast, is a treasure trove of lush landscapes and breathtaking ocean views. But beyond its natural beauty lies a rich tapestry of human history waiting to be explored. Hike a National Historic Trail while learning about the area's Indigenous communities; watch a thrilling race at the storied Laguna Seca Raceway; and get lunch at a restaurant that epitomizes the Oaxacan presence in Monterey. This itinerary will take you to museums and reserves across the county and its thousands of years of human history.

Explore Salinas, California

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Stories About Salinas

One theory holds that Monterey Jack was developed by Scotsman David Jacks.

The Cheese Makers Keeping Monterey Jack's Local Legend Alive

Only one farmstead in Monterey County still makes the famed cheese.

by Rachel Wharton, Atlas Obscura

November 12, 2019