National Steinbeck Center, Salinas

This is an amazing museum, much larger than I expected. It covers the entirety of Steinbeck's life and helps us to understand the influences shaping his writing. Some of the exhibits are interactive and quite fun. There are video displays showing segments of his works that ended up being filmed. A word or two about the staff. We got lost twice getting to the museum. We called the museum and staff patiently gave us directions to get us back on track. They were cheerful and friendly, and greeted us warmly once our group got to the museum. Signage is confusing. The museum is part of a college campus. Signage for the campus is much more prominent than signage for the museum. There is a large, low-cost public parking garage in close proximity to the museum and many restaurants close by.

Beautiful, detailed museum chronicling John Steinbeck's life. This museum is a short walk away from the Salinas Amtrak station and Greyhound stop. There are restrooms and a theatre. The exhibits include VR headsets, models, and plenty of photos. If you're interested in John Steinbeck's life, this is the place for you. Admission costs $15 for adults, $13 for students, teachers, military, county residents, and seniors, $7 for ages 6 to 17, and it's free for kids 5 and under and members.