Cannery Row
It was John Steinbeck’s novel that prompted the area of Monterey known as Ocean View Avenue to be renamed Cannery Row in 1958. Today the once bustling cannery’s buildings have been updated and showcase an eclectic combination of specialty shops, artist galleries, and more than 25 restaurants and other world-class attractions.And one of the most famous attractions is the Monterey Bay Aquarium with its rotating exhibits and programs coupled with its steadfast dedication to marine conservation and education. Currently on exhibit is the “Secret Lives of Seahorses” display as well as a recently updated “Splash Zone” for children. And just one block from the aquarium is the city’s new IMAX Theater which has been showing some great 3D movies.And should you want to take part of some of the area’s fine wineries, it’s possible to have a full Monterey County wine tasting tour in three blocks of Cannery Row at various tasting rooms and the Wine Visitors Center.And don’t forget, Monterey is not just about what’s above water it’s also about the Monterey Bay national Marine Sanctuary where divers and kayakers can come face to face with sea otters and seals. Not up for diving? Then take a bike ride along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail.You bet the Cannery Row area offers a lot a piece of literary history, a glimpse into one of the nation’s most well-lnown aquariums, restaurants, shopping, diving, kayaking, or biking. Surely that’s enough to whet your appetite and keep you occupied in this outdoor wonderland.