Sights in Along Highway 101
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National Steinbeck Center
The impressive National Steinbeck Center is a fitting homage to Salinas' Nobel Prize-winning native son, John Steinbeck (1902-68). Steinbeck's literary explorations were influenced and inspired by the people and daily life of the area; his observations on Cannery Row in Monterey resulted in the eponymous 1945 book.
The interactive exhibit chronicles the writer's life and works in a creative and engaging fashion. Each of seven theme galleries stages scenes from famous books such as The Grapes of Wrath, East of Eden and Of Mice and Men, incorporating quotes and artifacts such as letters and books. There's also a small theater showing film clips. Prized exhibits include Roci…
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Zenaida Cellars
Most vineyards have tasting rooms and free tours. Maps are available from the chamber of commerce and various businesses around town. Good stops going west include Zenaida Cellars, which has a large, rustic style tasting room that's a fine venue for sampling its viogniers, syrahs and sangioveses, among others.
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El Paso Robles Area Pioneer Museum
Sample local history - of the non-earthshaking variety - at the El Paso Robles Area Pioneer Museum. Lots of stuff that would have been carted away as junk just a few years ago has now found a home in this interesting compound, which puts the area's history into context.
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York Mountain Winery
Closer to the coast, York Mountain Winery, 7 miles west of Hwy 101 and off Hwy 46, is the oldest winery in the region and has a tasting room in an old log cabin. Try some of its award-winning pinot noirs.
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James Dean Monument
About 25 miles east of Hwy 101, on Hwy 46 in Cholame, a monument is near the spot where James Dean fatally crashed his Porsche on September 30, 1955 at the age of 24. He'd only made three films.
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Steinbeck House
Steinbeck was born and spent much of his boyhood in what is now Steinbeck House, two blocks west of the center. It's now a twee lunch café. We're not sure he'd approve.
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Eberle Winery
Some 3.5 miles east of Hwy 101, Eberle Winery has a lovely deck with vineyard views, and offers tours of its wine caves. The star here is cabernet sauvignon.
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Garden of Memories Cemetery
Steinbeck is buried in the family plot at Garden of Memories Cemetery, 1 mile south of the center.
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