Alvarado Street Old Monterey
Historic downtown street in Old Monterey, known for its farmer's market, indie shops, and diverse restaurants.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Farmer's market buzz
Alvarado Street Old Monterey
Best Time
Farmer's market buzz

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic downtown street in Old Monterey, known for its farmer's market, indie shops, and diverse restaurants.
"Alvarado Street is a must-visit for its vibrant farmer's market and lively downtown atmosphere."
🎯 Tuesday Market Treasures
Explore the farmer's market for unique crafts like permanent jewelry and local soaps.
🎶 Thirsty Thursday Fun
Enjoy happy hour and live music at CIBO on Alvarado Street every Thursday.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Old Monterey Farmer's Market
Alvarado Street
A weekly Tuesday market bursting with local produce, artisanal goods, and unique crafts.

Alvarado Street Brewery
Downtown Monterey
Known for elevated bar food and pizzas in a stunning art deco setting.

The Whisky Club
Alvarado Street
An impressive selection of spirits with exceptional customer service for tasting experiences.

High Scores Arcade
459 Alvarado Street
A classic arcade experience with a wide array of games for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Farmer's Market Fun
Evening Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Tuesday Market Treasures
Explore the farmer's market for unique crafts like permanent jewelry and local soaps.
🎶 Thirsty Thursday Fun
Enjoy happy hour and live music at CIBO on Alvarado Street every Thursday.
🍺 Brewery Bites
Alvarado Street Brewery offers great food in a unique, historic bank building.
🥃 Whiskey Tasting
The Whisky Club provides an extensive spirit selection and top-notch service.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Tuesday Market Treasures
Explore the farmer's market for unique crafts like permanent jewelry and local soaps.
🎶 Thirsty Thursday Fun
Enjoy happy hour and live music at CIBO on Alvarado Street every Thursday.
🍺 Brewery Bites
Alvarado Street Brewery offers great food in a unique, historic bank building.
🥃 Whiskey Tasting
The Whisky Club provides an extensive spirit selection and top-notch service.
🍳 All-Day Breakfast
Old Monterey Cafe serves classic breakfast and lunch items just off Alvarado Street.
🕹️ Retro Gaming
High Scores Arcade offers a fun, nostalgic gaming experience for everyone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Alvarado Street for its vibrant farmer's market, diverse dining options, and lively atmosphere. The historic charm and variety of independent shops are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find parking challenging during peak times, and certain establishments can be a bit pricey.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Alvarado Street is the main downtown thoroughfare in Old Monterey, easily accessible by car, public transport, or even walking if you're staying nearby. Parking can be found on the street or in nearby lots, though it can get busy, especially during market days.
Street parking is available along Alvarado Street and in adjacent side streets. However, it can be competitive, particularly on market days or during peak hours. Consider using public parking garages if street spots are scarce.
Yes, Alvarado Street is a pleasant walk from Cannery Row, taking about 15-20 minutes. It's a great way to see more of the Monterey area.
Walking is the best way to explore Alvarado Street and the surrounding Old Monterey district to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems.
Several local bus routes serve the downtown Monterey area, with stops conveniently located near Alvarado Street, making it accessible via public transit. Check local transit schedules for routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Old Monterey Farmer's Market on Alvarado Street is free to enter and browse. You only pay for any goods you wish to purchase from vendors.
The market typically runs every Tuesday. Hours vary seasonally: 4 PM - 8 PM from May to September, and 4 PM - 7 PM from October to April.
There are no general admission fees for most shops and restaurants on Alvarado Street. You'll pay for food, drinks, or merchandise purchased. Some specific venues like The Whisky Club might offer tasting experiences with associated costs.
High Scores Arcade is free to enter; you pay per game or for time spent playing.
It's recommended to book tables for popular restaurants, especially on weekend evenings or during special events, to avoid long waits. Some restaurants may offer online reservations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Alvarado Street features a mix of independent boutiques, gift shops, art galleries, and specialty stores, offering unique finds beyond typical tourist souvenirs.
Evenings on Alvarado Street offer a lively atmosphere with restaurants, bars, and sometimes live music. Thursday nights are particularly popular for happy hour specials.
Yes, High Scores Arcade provides a fun, retro gaming experience for families. The farmer's market also offers a lively environment for all ages.
Alvarado Street has a historic charm combined with a modern, vibrant energy. It's a bustling street with a strong sense of local community.
While Alvarado Street itself is a historic district, many buildings retain their original architecture, contributing to the area's historical ambiance. The street has been a central part of Monterey's development.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Alvarado Street boasts a diverse culinary scene. Popular spots include Alvarado Street Brewery for elevated pub fare, Old Monterey Cafe for classic breakfast, and The Whisky Club for unique tasting experiences.
Several highly-rated brunch spots are located on or near Alvarado Street, including Old Monterey Cafe, Rosine's Restaurant, and Jack's Monterey.
The farmer's market offers a variety of food vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to prepared snacks and local delicacies.
Many restaurants on Alvarado Street offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus online or ask staff directly, as options can vary.
Thursday evenings are known for happy hour and drink specials at venues like CIBO. Many other establishments also offer daily specials.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic architecture, the vibrant farmer's market stalls, and the lively street scenes. The art deco interior of Alvarado Street Brewery is also a great photo opportunity.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the street's charm. Weekday mornings before the market gets too busy can also be good for a quieter feel.
While you can certainly photograph the impressive bottle collection at The Whisky Club, be mindful of other patrons and ask for permission if focusing on people.
The farmer's market is perfect for capturing colorful produce displays, artisan crafts, and the bustling community atmosphere. Look for unique items like permanent jewelry.
Alvarado Street is ideal for street photography, architectural shots, food photography, and capturing local culture and events like the farmer's market.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many restaurants, like Alvarado Street Brewery, offer kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere. The general vibe of the street is welcoming, and walking around allows kids to experience a lively downtown environment. Consider visiting during market hours for a more engaging experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look out for happy hour specials on Thursday evenings at places like CIBO for more affordable drinks and appetizers. While some dining can be pricey, opting for market food or casual eateries can help keep costs down. Walking is free and allows you to enjoy the atmosphere without spending money.
couples
Strolling hand-in-hand through the Farmer's Market on a Tuesday afternoon can be a delightful shared experience, discovering local crafts and enjoying the community buzz. The historic ambiance of Old Monterey adds a touch of romance to any visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Old Monterey: Alvarado Street
This street is particularly famous for its weekly Old Monterey Farmer's Market, held every Tuesday. This market is a must-visit, offering a fantastic array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and local goods. It's a perfect place to experience the local flavor and find unique souvenirs.
Beyond the market, Alvarado Street is a destination for dining and entertainment. From casual cafes to upscale eateries and unique bars like The Whisky Club, there's something to satisfy every palate. The street also hosts events and has a lively evening atmosphere, especially on Thursdays with happy hour specials.
Culinary Delights on Alvarado Street
For classic comfort food, the Old Monterey Cafe offers all-day breakfast and lunch items, making it a reliable choice for a hearty meal. If you're looking for a more unique tasting adventure, The Whisky Club provides an extensive selection of spirits and an immersive tasting experience.
The Farmer's Market also contributes significantly to the culinary scene, with numerous vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, honey, and prepared foods, allowing visitors to sample local flavors and ingredients. Many other restaurants along the street provide options for brunch, lunch, and dinner, ensuring visitors can find something to suit their cravings.
Entertainment and Activities
Thursday evenings are a highlight, with CIBO on Alvarado Street hosting 'Thirsty Thursday' events featuring happy hour specials and live music, creating a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
The Old Monterey Farmer's Market itself is an activity, offering a lively environment to stroll, shop, and enjoy the community spirit. You can even find unique vendors like those selling permanent jewelry, perfect for a personalized souvenir. Throughout the year, the street may also host other community events and seasonal festivities, like carolers during the holidays.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit