National Steinbeck Center

JK Kendall

On our drive back from Los Angeles to San Francisco, we stopped in Salinas. For anyone who has not been there recently (like 2021 or later), they have seriously updated their downtown. It is really inviting! We wanted to visit the Steinbeck House, but since it is run mostly by volunteers, the hours are very limited and we did not plan our return drive very well. But we were able to visit the National Steinbeck Center (after enjoying a wonderfully fresh salad at the Salad Shoppe). The museum is at the end of Main street. We think it was super cool and provided a comprehensive view into his life. We could have easily spent more time here than we allowed. Our positive experience began with the staff who greeted us - Narda and Jessika. They were very welcoming and guided us to the video that covered his life and then to the exhibits, laid out as a path through his life. Next time we're down that way, we'll likely stop in again (and time it so we can visit the Steinbeck House).

James - My Reviews

Very inspiring museum that taught me that Steinbeck wrote many more famous novels than I had known, and faced much more vicious backlash than I realized. Having just read Grapes of Wrath recently, I was very moved by the experience. Plus, the staff was incredibly kind and enthusiastic... Thank you Narda and Eddie for sharing your palpable pride in the Steinbeck Center and the wonderful city of Salinas!

Gabriela Clark

Wonderful museum! I learned so much about Steinbeck and how the Salinas Valley was shaped during his time! Thank you

Charles Tanner

Got a membership as an early birthday present to myself. It was a good decision. Had a small hiccup with getting my membership card but the nice lady and gentleman at the desk assured me I was taken care of. For the museum I went with a friend and walked around for 2 hours. That still wasn't enough time to read everything in the exhibits, which is a good thing. Awesome learning experience and a place you'll definitely want to visit more than once. Got 2 books and a key chain from the gift shop. Looking forward to coming back soon.