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Salinas

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Salinas

2 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Salinas, California

Updated November 12, 2019

Unusual Attractions in Salinas

Abandoned Fort Ord building.

Salinas, California

Fort Ord

Once America’s most beautiful army base, this abandoned military fort on the coast of Monterey Bay has been left to the elements.

Salinas, California

The Steinbeck House Restaurant

Eat a tasty meal in the house where John Steinbeck was born.

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Cars for scale

Castroville, California

World's Largest Artichoke Statue

It should come as no surprise that the world's largest artichoke lies in the town that calls itself the "Artichoke Center of the World."

7 miles from Salinas

The barge seen during sunset.

Castroville, California

Sauce Bros Barge

An abandoned boat that's been stranded mysteriously for decades.

9 miles from Salinas

A cautious frog surveys the scene.

Moss Landing, California

Elkhorn Slough

More than 700 species live within this murky marvel of a swamp on California's coast.

11 miles from Salinas

Dennis the Menace Playground

Monterey, California

Dennis the Menace Playground

This municipal playground was co-created by the father of one of the most playful characters ever.

13 miles from Salinas

The view of the Custom House that merchants saw upon making landfall

Monterey, California

Monterey's Custom House

The oldest U.S. Government building in California, and it's State Historic Landmark #1.

14 miles from Salinas

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Salinas

Salinas, California

The Steinbeck House Restaurant

Eat a tasty meal in the house where John Steinbeck was born.

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Stories About Salinas

One theory holds that Monterey Jack was developed by Scotsman David Jacks.

The Cheese Makers Keeping Monterey Jack's Local Legend Alive

Only one farmstead in Monterey County still makes the famed cheese.

by Rachel Wharton

November 12, 2019

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