Site of St. Paul's Episcopal Church 80 West Alisal Street

John Steinbeck's family attended the Episcopal Church in Salinas. The mishap with the choir cross that cost young John Steinbeck the privilege of "wearing the lace" and carrying the cross was later recounted in "How My Active Career in Religion Ended," in The Californian on February 26, 1966. These syndicated newspaper articles are often referred to as "Letters to Alicia." The story also appears in his novel, The Winter of Our Discontent. East of Eden makes several references to the Episcopal Church in Salinas.

Formerly St. Paul's Episcopal Church Rectory 418 Cayuga Street

In East of Eden Mr. Rolf, "unmarried and simple in his tastes" has closed most of the "large and rambling" house built "for ministers with large families." However, when Aron needs a place to study after school, he willingly gives him a large room.

Site of the Presbyterian Church 327 Pajaro Street

Steinbeck's maternal relatives, the Hamilton Family, were affiliated with this congregation. The building was also used by Universal Studios in its 1971 film, The Harness.

Buddhist Temple of Salinas
14 California Street

The Buddhist Temple of Salinas has long been a gathering place and a community center for the Japanese community of Salinas.