Old Town is a tranquil neighborhood featuring a mix of single detached homes, small apartment buildings, and duplexes with mostly one- and two-bedroom options. The area benefits from comprehensive bicycling infrastructure, making cycling a convenient mode of travel. Daily errands are simple thanks to close proximity of grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, and clothing shops. Several bus lines connect the neighborhood, with many residences near stops, ensuring access to public transit. Local primary and high schools are conveniently reachable without requiring a vehicle. With quiet streets and a relaxed atmosphere, Old Town offers an inviting and pleasant residential setting.
Home buyers who prefer a relaxed ambience will enjoy Old Town. Most areas in Old Town are very quiet, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Situated at the edge of Downtown Monterey, Custom House Plaza is a historic open space featuring the oldest government building in California and hosting local festivals, farmers markets, and cultural events just steps from Alvarado Street.
Located on Pacific Street, the Monterey Public Library is California’s oldest public library, offering extensive collections, community reading programs, and educational workshops in a beautifully restored historic building.
This vibrant strip on Alvarado Street is Downtown’s culinary hotspot, lined with local eateries, coffee shops, and lively bars that serve everything from fresh seafood to craft brews, all within a walkable few blocks.
Every Tuesday, Downtown Monterey transforms for the Old Monterey Marketplace, where locals and visitors browse fresh produce, artisan foods, crafts, and live entertainment on Alvarado Street.
Beginning downtown, this scenic, multi-use path hugs the shoreline and offers cyclists, walkers, and joggers sweeping views of the bay, access to Fisherman’s Wharf, and easy connections to other city neighborhoods.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
Downtown residents can enjoy a free, locally focused history program inside one of Monterey’s most distinctive historic buildings. The talk offers an easy cultural outing within walking distance of Old Monterey shops, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a convenient Saturday activity for history lovers and visitors alike.
View event details →This weekly downtown market is a practical and enjoyable neighborhood tradition, with local produce, prepared food, crafts, and a lively community atmosphere. Residents can walk from home, pick up ingredients for dinner, browse artisan goods, and spend an evening supporting small Monterey-area vendors without leaving the city center.
View event details →This free, family-friendly celebration brings live entertainment and activities to one of Monterey’s most recognizable waterfront landmarks. For downtown residents, it is an especially convenient way to enjoy local history, scenic bay views, and a festive community gathering, with restaurants, shops, and the waterfront all close by.
View event details →A concert at the historic Golden State Theatre gives Downtown Monterey residents a low-travel evening of live music in the heart of the city. Ingrid Michaelson’s accessible pop songwriting makes this a strong date-night or friends’ outing, and attendees can easily pair the show with dinner or drinks nearby.
View event details →This locally produced theatrical performance offers residents an affordable arts outing without traveling beyond Monterey. The dramatic Appalachian-set story provides an alternative to the area’s usual tourist activities, while the college venue and evening schedule make it suitable for theater fans, students, and residents looking for a distinctive fall night out.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Downtown
Local characteristics and demographics for Downtown
