Organic Produce Summit: Nearby attractions worth the walk

The location for the Organic Produce Summit lies just outside scenic, walkable connections to several dynamic parts of the Monterey Peninsula.

Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
Walk toward the water and turn west to experience some of Monterey’s most exciting districts. A short walk brings you to Cannery Row, filled with oceanside restaurants, souvenir shopping and the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium at the farthest end. If you plan to visit the Aquarium, be sure to make a reservation first—and don’t miss the new Deep Sea exhibit!

Continue walking along the seamless Rec Trail to reach “America’s Last Hometown,” Pacific Grove. This adorable small town features impressive local restaurants featuring fresh seafood and produce with sweeping views of Monterey Bay. Take advantage of a sunny day at Pacific Grove’s Lover’s Point beach park.

Fisherman’s Wharf
Instead of turning onto the Rec Trail, continue toward Wharf No. 1 or Wharf 2 of Fisherman’s Wharf, only minutes from OPS headquarters at the Monterey Conference Center.

Wharf No. 1 provides the classic Fisherman’s Wharf experience for visitors. Grab clam chowder in a bread bowl and stroll around the raised promenade at the far end of the Wharf to view the Bay’s iconic sea otters, jellyfish and harbor seals. Feeling adventurous? Whale watching tours take off from Wharf #1 every day.

Wharf #2 is a short stroll along the harbor and operates as a commercial fishing business still today. Enjoy the view and chat with fishermen as you walk along the wharf until you arrive at the bountiful Monterey Fish Market—a great way to get to know the food culture of the Monterey Peninsula.

Alvarado Street
Walk away from the water to Alvarado Street, Monterey’s historic downtown. Try Alta Bakery, Ad Astra Bakery, Revival Ice Cream and Alvarado Street Brewing to experience award-winning restaurants featuring local produce and ingredients.

Adults and the young-at-heart can find fun everywhere on Alvarado Street. Visit the High Scores arcade or try a cigar at Hellam’s Tobacco next door. History buffs will love following the Path of History throughout Alvarado Street and downtown Monterey to discover authentic adobes, the First Brick House, and the Old Whaling Station—complete with whale bone paving stones as the sidewalk.

While you learn and connect at the Organic Produce Summit, take time to enjoy beautiful, historic Monterey with these inviting, walkable attractions.

Learn more about the Organic Produce Summit, which takes place July 10-11 at the Monterey Conference Center in Monterey, California.