KING CITY — With renewed interest in John Steinbeck’s “East of Eden” following the release of Netflix’s new adaptation, the Monterey County Agricultural and Rural Life Museum is offering a chance for visitors to explore the real places and agricultural heritage connected to the celebrated novel.
The museum, located inside San Lorenzo Park in King City, recently introduced the Steinbeck Country Tour: Exploring East of Eden, a free experience highlighting the region’s connections to Steinbeck’s life and work.
King City has a direct connection to the author through his mother, Olive Hamilton Steinbeck, who grew up in the city as part of the Hamilton family, whose history is woven into “East of Eden.”
During the tour, visitors travel between historic buildings while hearing about each site from outside. Depending on their interests and available time, guests can also explore selected buildings and view exhibits, artifacts and stories connected to Steinbeck’s formative years and the novel.
“The experience reveals how the landscapes, agricultural traditions and communities of southern Monterey County helped shape Steinbeck’s understanding of the Salinas Valley — and how those influences found their way into his characters, settings and stories,” said Teri Storelli, executive director of the museum.
The museum campus includes agricultural exhibits, tractors, Olson’s Blacksmith Shop, the King Station Depot, La Gloria Schoolhouse and the Spreckels House, along with displays documenting rural life in Monterey County.
Visitors can choose a brief overview or spend more time exploring the buildings, making each tour a personalized experience, according to the museum.
Tours are available Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can reserve online at MCARLM.org by clicking “Book a Tour” or stop by the museum during regular hours. Large groups are encouraged to reserve in advance.
“Come discover the real places, history and agricultural heritage behind ‘East of Eden’ — and experience the museum from an entirely new perspective,” Storelli said.
Admission to both the museum and San Lorenzo Park is free, though donations to the museum are appreciated. The park also offers campground rentals for visitors looking to extend their stay in the Salinas Valley.
