Steinbeck Museum

Your first visit to Old Town Salinas and the Steinbeck Museum is guaranteed to be a wonderful experience even if you haven't read one of his many classic novels beginning with "Grapes of Wrath", "Pastures of Heaven"  “Cannery Row”, "Of Mice and Men”, “East of Eden” or my favorite "Travels with Charley."

John Steinbeck was an iconic giant in the 1940's and 50's and left a legacy that many have forgotten or don't truly appreciate.

This museum and all of the artifacts of that era will likely change your mind if you are not yet a fan. 

In "Pastures of Heaven" John Steinbeck writes brilliantly about about life in the “heaven and “hell “ of the Salinas Valley.  This area was the background for much of his work.

Other books depict the realities of life working in the sardine factories on historic Cannery Row in Monterey.

You can even see the “real” Rocinante...the camper Steinbeck used in his travels across the country in the book "Travels with Charley."

His first book “Cup of Gold” and then "Tortilla Flat" got the attention of hollywood novelists and John made enough money to purchase a ticket to go anywhere.

Surprisingly, he wanted to see Salinas and the coast of California and that became his final destination.

2014 will celebrate the 75th year anniversary of the writing of “Grapes of Wrath” and the John Steinbeck Museum, so maybe this is a great time to make that visit. 

You will find vintage letters and memorabilia of artifacts and personal belongings used  to inspire his writings.

If you really want an experience, visit the Steinbeck House Restaurant.

Once the home the childhood home of John Steinbeck, this building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is located 2 blocks west of the Steinbeck Center at 132 Central Avenue in Salinas. Soups, sandwiches salads and desserts make up the menu and you expect to pay about $12 for a sandwich or the same for soup and sandwich…a bargain given the reality that the child John Steinbeck lived in this house and probably sat right where you are enjoying your lunch.

You can even split lunch if you are not that hungry for $3.

This Queen Anne Victorian home is a reminder of what everyday life might have been like back in the day.

The Steinbeck House is operated by friendly volunteers who want the legend and reality of  the infamous John Steinbeck to be kept alive.

There is a small theater and also a gift shop. Street parking is usually an easy find.