29 Facts About Monterey

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world-renowned institution. It draws visitors from all over the globe. Here are some fascinating facts about this aquatic wonder.

1. 01Opened in 1984, the aquarium is located on the site of a former sardine cannery.
2. 02It houses over 35,000 creatures representing more than 550 species.
3. 03The aquarium's Outer Bay Wing features a 1.2 million-gallon tank, one of the largest in the world.
4. 04It was the first to successfully exhibit a great white shark for an extended period.
5. 05The aquarium's kelp forest exhibit is one of the tallest aquarium exhibits globally, standing at 28 feet.

Cannery Row

Cannery Row is a historic waterfront street in Monterey. It was made famous by John Steinbeck's novel of the same name.

6. 06Cannery Row was once the center of the sardine-packing industry.
7. 07The last cannery closed in 1973, marking the end of an era.
8. 08Today, Cannery Row is a popular tourist destination with shops, restaurants, and hotels.
9. 09The street was originally named Ocean View Avenue but was renamed in honor of Steinbeck's novel in 1958.
10. 10The area is home to the famous Cannery Row Monument, which honors the street's history and its people.

Monterey Jazz Festival

The Monterey Jazz Festival is one of the longest-running jazz festivals in the world. It has a rich history and continues to attract top talent.

11. 11The festival began in 1958 and has been held annually ever since.
12. 12It takes place at the Monterey County Fairgrounds.
13. 13The festival has hosted legendary performers like Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, and Miles Davis.
14. 14It features over 500 artists performing on eight stages over three days.
15. 15The event includes panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions in addition to performances.

Historic Landmarks

Monterey is rich in history, with many landmarks that tell the story of its past.

16. 16The city was the capital of Alta California under both Spanish and Mexican rule.
17. 17Colton Hall, built in 1849, was the site of California's first constitutional convention.
18. 18The Custom House, built in 1827, is the oldest government building in California.
19. 19The Royal Presidio Chapel, constructed in 1794, is the oldest continuously operating church in California.
20. 20The Pacific House Museum, built in 1847, now serves as a museum showcasing Monterey's history.

Natural Beauty

Monterey's natural beauty is one of its biggest draws. From stunning coastlines to lush forests, there's no shortage of breathtaking scenery.

21. 21The 17-Mile Drive offers some of the most scenic views in California.
22. 22Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is known as the "crown jewel" of the state park system.
23. 23The Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail stretches 18 miles along the coast.
24. 24The area is home to numerous marine mammals, including sea otters, seals, and whales.
25. 25The nearby Big Sur coastline is famous for its dramatic cliffs and stunning ocean views.

Educational Institutions

Monterey is also known for its educational institutions, which contribute to the city's vibrant intellectual community.

26. 26The Naval Postgraduate School, established in 1909, is a graduate school for the U.S. Navy.
27. 27The Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center is one of the world's foremost language schools.
28. 28California State University, Monterey Bay, founded in 1994, is located on the site of the former Fort Ord military base.
29. 29The Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey offers graduate programs in international policy, language, and business.

Monterey's Marvels in a Nutshell

Monterey's got a lot going on. From its rich history to stunning coastlines, there's something for everyone. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-see, showcasing marine life like nowhere else. Cannery Row offers a peek into the past with its old sardine factories turned trendy shops and eateries. Whale watching here is top-notch, with humpbacks and blue whales making regular appearances. 17-Mile Drive provides breathtaking views, perfect for a scenic road trip. Lovers Point Park is ideal for a picnic or a swim. Don't forget the Monterey Jazz Festival, a treat for music lovers. Whether you're into nature, history, or just good food, Monterey's got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this coastal gem. You'll leave with memories to last a lifetime.