King City, California

Located in the heart of Monterey County, King City is a small but vibrant city known for its rich agricultural history, natural beauty, and friendly community. With sunny weather year-round, it’s the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to relax and unwind. In this post, we’ll highlight 10 places to visit and 5 places to avoid in King City, California.

Places to Visit

1. San Lorenzo Park

San Lorenzo Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of King City. It features a large playground, picnic areas, and plenty of open space for sports and recreation. The park is perfect for families with children and those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

2. Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum

This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich agricultural history of the area. With rotating exhibits and hands-on activities, it’s a great place to learn about the history of farming in Monterey County.

3. Mission San Antonio de Padua

Mission San Antonio de Padua is a historic mission located just outside of King City. It was founded in 1771 and offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s early history and cultural heritage.

4. Pine Canyon Trail

If you’re looking to get outside and explore the natural beauty of the area, Pine Canyon Trail is a great place to start. The trail winds through a beautiful canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

5. Harris Ranch

Harris Ranch is a working ranch located just outside of King City. It’s a great place to get up close and personal with some of the area’s farm animals, and there are plenty of fun activities for kids and adults alike.

6. San Lorenzo Park Disc Golf Course

This 18-hole disc golf course is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful scenery of San Lorenzo Park.

7. The Locker Room Lounge

The Locker Room Lounge is a lively sports bar and restaurant located in downtown King City. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat and watch the game with friends.

8. El Rey Mexican Restaurant

If you’re in the mood for some delicious Mexican food, El Rey is the place to go. They offer a wide variety of dishes, from tacos and burritos to traditional Mexican entrees.

9. Monterey Zoo

The Monterey Zoo is a unique destination that offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of exotic animals. They offer guided tours and hands-on experiences that are fun for the whole family.

10. Pinnacles National Park

Although it’s located a bit outside of King City, Pinnacles National Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in hiking and exploring the great outdoors. The park offers stunning views of towering rock formations and miles of hiking trails.

Places to Avoid

1. King City Flea Market

This outdoor flea market is known for its low-quality merchandise and less-than-friendly vendors. Unless you’re looking for bargain-basement goods, it’s probably best to avoid this one.

2. Nuestra Tierra Restaurant

Nuestra Tierra is a popular Mexican restaurant in King City, but unfortunately, the food and service leave a lot to be desired. There are plenty of better options in town.

3. La Cabana Mexican Restaurant

Sadly, La Cabana Mexican Restaurant is another example of a restaurant where the food and service don’t quite live up to expectations. With so many other great restaurants in the area, it’s best to skip this one.

4. Budget Inn

This budget motel has a reputation for being dirty and run-down. If you’re looking for affordable accommodations in King City, it’s best to look elsewhere.

5. Denny’s

Although Denny’s is a popular chain restaurant across the United States, this particular location in King City has received mixed reviews from visitors. If you’re looking for a better dining experience, there are plenty of other options in town.

Overview of King City