A Literary Escape: Walking Through John Steinbeck’s California
A weekend of books, coastlines, and quiet charm in Monterey and Salinas
Hello fellow travelers! 👋🏼
Some trips are about new places. Others feel like a conversation across time—and that’s exactly what I experienced on a literary weekend in Monterey, California.
One afternoon in 2012, I devoured Of Mice and Men in one sitting. Since then, John Steinbeck has consistently been one of my favorite authors. Exploring the real-world settings behind Cannery Row and Travels with Charley was like stepping into the pages of a well-worn novel. Monterey isn’t just a coastal town; it holds the spirit of Steinbeck’s California—layered with history, grit, and a surprising gentleness.
Highlights of the Journey
Cannery Row, Past and Present
We started where Steinbeck did—along Cannery Row. Today, sardine factories have given way to farm-to-table restaurants, a Ghirardelli shop, and waterfront hotels like the Intercontinental Clement Monterey. But echoes of the past remain. Statues, plaques, and banners honor Steinbeck and his characters, preserving the stories that made this place famous.
A Deep Dive at the National Steinbeck Center
About 25 minutes inland, the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas brought Steinbeck’s life and work into full focus. The exhibits weave together personal artifacts, literary milestones, and humanitarian moments. Give yourself 1–2 hours here—it’s absolutely worth it for fans and casual readers alike.
Lunch at The Steinbeck House
One of the most memorable parts of the trip was lunch at Steinbeck’s childhood home, now a museum and restaurant run entirely by volunteers. The menu is comforting, the service heartfelt, and the house itself radiates a special kind of warmth. Don’t skip the cozy downstairs gift shop—it’s packed with literary souvenirs and hidden historical tidbits.
Coastal Walks & Quiet Reflections
Beyond the literary landmarks, Monterey’s natural beauty calls. Foggy mornings and crisp afternoons made walks along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail unforgettable. We spotted seals at Lovers Point Park and made time for a drive to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve—both perfect for slow, reflective exploration.
📚 Side Note for the Book-Lovers: Wandering Steinbeck’s old stomping grounds in Monterey hits differently when you remember how often his work was challenged. The Grapes of Wrath and Of Mice and Men didn’t just make waves—they were banned in schools and libraries across the country for their sharp critiques of inequality and power. If you're curious, the American Library Association has a great roundup on banned books and how to get involved.
Insider Tips for Your Monterey Literary Weekend
📚 Steinbeck House Lunch: Open Tuesday–Saturday. Reservations recommended.
🌊 Weather: Mornings can be chilly and foggy—pack layers.
📍 Bonus Stops: Check for docent-led tours of the Pacific Biological Laboratories, or browse the cozy River House Books in Carmel.
🚶♀️ Scenic Strolls: The Monterey Bay Coastal Trail offers beautiful ocean views and interpretive signs rich in local history.
Your Invitation to Walk in Steinbeck’s Footsteps
Feeling inspired? Whether you're a longtime Steinbeck reader or simply curious about Monterey’s layered history, a weekend like this leaves a lasting mark. I’d love to help you plan your own literary escape to the California coast.
👉🏼 Let’s start planning your Monterey trip!