Things to do 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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Bistro Laurent
This vintage brick restaurant is helmed by Laurent Grangien, who brings a native expertise to the French menu. At lunch, the menu focuses on simple specials like seasonal salads and pizzas that will transport you to the Mediterranean via your shady garden table. At night, things are more complex; just be sure to save room for dessert.
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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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Good Ol' Burgers
Don't even look at the fast-food joints at the Hwy 46 East junction with Hwy 101 or you may literally turn into a pillar of salt. Instead opt for this local favorite, which grills up damn fine burgers. You can enjoy at tables outside and before you go, pose for a silly photo with the cut-out characters.
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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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Hullaballoo
There's a lively, artistic feel and a seasonally changing menu billed as 'bold American cooking' here. Local produce is the basis for an eclectic menu highly popular with locals. So's the bar.
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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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Monterey Coast Brewing
This upscale microbrewery is part of the new life downtown. It has an attractive dining room where there's the expected large burgers and more.
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Ag Venture Tours
Get even closer to your roughage with the popular Ag Venture Tours, which take an in-depth look at the fields and associated issues.
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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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