Plan your Visit

Open Wednesday through Sunday 10am to 5pm

Visit

Welcome to The National Steinbeck Center. The Museum continues our robust virtual offerings on its website and social media channels; and new in-person programs, events, and activities.

Our Hours

Museum hours Wednesday – Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM.

We are closed on New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving Eve, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Admission Prices

Adults $15

Seniors, Students, Retired Military or Veterans, Teachers, and Monterey Co. Residents $13

Active Duty Military and Families (Memorial Day – Labor Day: FREE) $13

Children Ages 6-17 $7

Children 5 and under Free

Members Free

Length of Visit

We recommend that you allow at least two hours for a self-guided experience. All guests visiting the Center are greeted by a docent or staff member who will give a brief orientation and is available to answer questions throughout your self-guided tour.

Meals

There are many restaurants on or near Main Street in Oldtown Salinas, within walking distance of the Center. The Steinbeck House, where Steinbeck lived from his birth in 1902 until he left for college in 1919, is always a fun lunch trip as part of your Steinbeck experience.

Parking

There is a parking garage right next to the NSC with low daily rates. Bus passengers can be dropped off directly in front of the Center, and there is free motorcoach parking at the Amtrak train station, one block from the NSC.

Health and Safety

Updated September 2023

Please note that the National Steinbeck Center is within a building owned by California State Monterey Bay (CSUMB). As such, we are required to follow the safety regulations dictated by the CSUMB President and risk management department.

Additionally, cleaning protocols have been enhanced throughout the building, and hand sanitizer stations have been placed at the Museum’s entry and in other locations throughout the Museum. We ask that you practice safe social distancing while at the Museum and stay home if you are not feeling well.

Please note that ONLY Certified Service Dogs are allowed in the Center.

Tour Groups

The National Steinbeck Center is a great destination for a group excursion!

The multi-sensory Museum offers a distinct visitor experience: the John Steinbeck Museum presents a journey through the Nobel Prize-winning author’s life and work. It is a fascinating trip for a book club, a group of family and friends, or an organization.

School/Youth Group Fees
(Including Homeschool)

The National Steinbeck Center enhances your students’ educational experience!

All Monterey County homeschools, public schools, private schools and youth groups are admitted to the National Steinbeck Center at a reduced rate of $2.50 per student. All other homeschools, public schools, private schools and youth groups are admitted at a special price of $5.00 per student. Steinbeck Young Authors program price is $1.00 per student.

For student groups, the National Steinbeck Center requires one teacher or chaperone per 10-12 students. All teachers and chaperones are admitted free. To make a reservation, please call 831.775.4721 to speak with an associate.

Have more questions about your upcoming visit? Email info@steinbeck.org

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Visit Us

1 Main St, Salinas, CA 93901

831.775.4721