Cannery Row was once a bustling row of sardine canneries during Monterey's famed industrial heyday. It is now a tourist attraction with many restaurants and hotels, many of which are located in former cannery buildings, and a few historical attractions. The biggest draw to the Row is the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. The street was once named Ocean View Avenue until John Steinbeck made the street famous in his classic novel Cannery Row. The City designated the street Cannery Row in his honor, in 1958. Many sites from his novel still dot the street alongside our many shops, restaurants and hotels. (less info)