A wild mother Southern Sea Otter and newborn pup float in the water of a quiet cove, in Monterey Bay, California.
Among the best things to do in Monterey, California, whale-watching tours are almost guaranteed to see wildlife here because of Submarine Canyon, a giant underwater canyon that's twice as deep as Arizona's Grand Canyon. Spot a variety of whales here, as well as dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, sea otters, albatross and leatherback turtles.
Historic Buildings in Monterey California, Colton Hall and City hall
The Colton Hall Museum is one of the oldest buildings in California and home to a recreation of the meeting room where the first California constitution was drafted in 1849, when Monterey was the capital of Alta California. Originally a public school and town hall, Colton now serves as a cultural center for the city, with annual constitutional convention reenactments and regular concerts.
The Presidio of Monterey Museum explains the area's history, from the indigenous peoples — the Esselen Tribe that inhabited the peninsula for more than 6,000 years — to present day, with information about the Spanish colonial period as well. Monterey has been home to a military training base since the turn of the last century, so exhibitions cover Army-related history, too.
No Monterey, California trip would be complete without seafood. Look for West Coast oysters on the half shell, creamy clam chowder, and shrimp dishes as well as locally grown produce from the surrounding farms. Nearby waters are filled with wild salmon and cod, seaside menu staples.
From Cannery Row to Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Lighthouse District, there are plenty of places to browse for gifts, jewelry and crafts. And because Monterey is so appealing to local artists, you'll also find galleries filled with work inspired by the spectacular regional scenery.
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