The twin cities of Monterey and Carmel pack centuries of fascinating California history into their compact historic districts.
For the best experience, I love the intimate small-group walking tours through Carmel, which combine local food tastings with stories of the area’s artistic heritage.
The self-guided audio tour of Cannery Row stands out for its authentic feel, featuring narration that brings Steinbeck’s famous waterfront to life.
Downtown Monterey’s guided history walks consistently earn praise for their knowledgeable coverage of Spanish colonial and early American periods.
For independent travelers, the 17 Mile Drive offers well-marked stops highlighting both coastal landmarks and the legendary Pebble Beach golf scene.
Take a closer look at our favorite historical tours:
Key Points
- The Original Monterey Walking Tours offers a 2-hour guided tour covering California’s history, with expert guides and accessibility features.
- The self-guided “Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour” focuses on John Steinbeck’s Monterey and the local fishing industry.
- The “17 Mile Drive: A Self-Guide Audio Tour” explores Pebble Beach’s historical highlights and natural beauty through a self-guided audio experience.
- The Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour combines culinary and cultural exploration, highlighting regional specialties and locavore dining.
- These tours provide personalized, flexible, and highly recommended options for uncovering the historical and cultural gems of Monterey and Carmel.
Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour
The Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour offers an immersive exploration of this charming coastal town’s culinary and cultural delights. Spanning three hours, the tour allows you to discover Carmel’s vibrant food scene and learn about its history as an artists’ colony.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit popular restaurants and boutique shops, sampling an array of regional specialties like chocolates, pasta, olive oils, and farm-to-table dishes.
The tour’s intimate group size, limited to 16 people, ensures a personalized experience as you engage with business owners and explore Carmel’s architectural and cultural heritage.
With a focus on locavore dining and seasonal ingredients, the tour provides a rich understanding of the town’s culinary identity. Dietary accommodations are available, making the experience accessible to various preferences.
Highly recommended by travelers, this tour is a must for both visitors and locals seeking to uncover Carmel’s hidden gems.
Read our full review: Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour Review
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Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbecks Monterey
Uncover the captivating history of Monterey’s Cannery Row with this immersive self-guided audio tour. Entitled “Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck’s Monterey,” this engaging experience allows you to explore the area at your own pace, learning about the local fishing industry, Steinbeck’s literary contributions, and the row’s remarkable revival.
With lifetime access to the audio tour in English, you’ll have the flexibility to start, pause, and restart the tour as needed. Along the way, you’ll receive detailed commentary, maps, and geodata, all accessible through the convenient VoiceMap app.
The tour covers the journey from the Sardine Factory to Steinbeck Plaza, providing a rundown of this historic destination.
While the tour doesn’t include tickets to museums or transportation, it offers a wealth of information and the freedom to discover Monterey’s Cannery Row on your own terms.
With an overall rating of 4.0 based on 18 reviews, this self-guided audio tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy the rich history and literary legacy of this iconic California location.
Read our full review: Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbecks Monterey Review
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The Original Monterey Walking Tours: Guided Tours of Historic Monterey
For those seeking an engaging and educational exploration of Monterey’s rich history, the Original Monterey Walking Tours offer a guided experience that brings the past to life.
With a 93% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour has gained a reputation for its knowledgeable guides and insightful narratives.
The 2-hour walking tour starts in Portola Plaza and winds through the historic streets, covering topics like California’s constitutional history and the stories of early settlers.
Travelers praise the guide’s expertise, with specific mentions of Shirley’s ability to connect families to Monterey’s significance.
Though occasional traffic noise can pose a challenge, the tour’s wheelchair and stroller accessibility make it an inclusive experience.
Priced at $35 per person and offering a lowest price guarantee, the Original Monterey Walking Tours provide an affordable way to explore the region’s past.
The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option make booking convenient.
Read our full review: The Original Monterey Walking Tours: Guided Tours of Historic Monterey Review
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17 Mile Drive: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of Pebble Beach’s Historical Highlights
Set out on a captivating self-guided audio tour that unveils the rich historical tapestry of Pebble Beach’s famous 17 Mile Drive. Brought to you by VoiceMap Audio Tours, this tour allows you to explore the area’s highlights at your own pace using your smartphone and the VoiceMap app.
With offline access to informative commentary, maps, and geodata, you’ll enjoy a flexible and immersive experience, even if you don’t have a cellular signal.
The tour takes you from the Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey to the SP+ Parking lot in Carmel-by-the-Sea, showcasing the stunning coastal scenery and the rich golf heritage of Pebble Beach.
While the tour doesn’t include guided visits to museums or attractions, it provides valuable historical context and insights that will enhance your appreciation of this picturesque region.
With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 4 reviews, this self-guided audio tour is a must-try for anyone seeking to uncover the captivating history and natural beauty of Monterey and Carmel.
Read our full review: 17 Mile Drive: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of Pebble Beach’s Historical Highlights Review
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Recap
You’ll find a variety of historical tours in Monterey and Carmel that cater to different interests. Whether you’d like to explore Cannery Row, stroll along the 17 Mile Drive, or embark on a guided walking tour, there’s an option to suit your needs. These tours offer a chance to dive into the rich history and cultural heritage of this picturesque coastal region.