Third Addition is a neighborhood characterized by a peaceful atmosphere with calm surroundings and minimal street noise. The area features a range of housing options, including predominantly single detached homes along with small and large apartment buildings, many constructed before the 1960s. Residents can easily access several supermarkets and diverse dining options, catering to various preferences. Convenient local bus lines provide transportation with stops located throughout the neighborhood, complemented by simple parking availability. The neighborhood supports bicycle travel with suitable infrastructure for bike use. Overall, Third Addition presents a quiet community filled with accessible amenities and diverse housing choices.
Third Addition offers a slower-paced ambience. Third Addition is very quiet overall, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor. Although this neighborhood is not known for its vibrancy, its main streets can still be quite dynamic.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Situated at the edge of downtown, Lovers Point Park is a scenic coastal spot known for its grassy lawns, stunning Pacific Ocean views, and easy access to the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail — a favorite picnic, tidepooling, and photography location for locals and visitors alike.
Located at Central Avenue and Grand Avenue, the historic Pacific Grove Public Library is a charming community hub, hosting local events, children’s programs, and home to a beautifully restored reading room that reflects the area's vibrant arts and literary culture.
A stroll along downtown’s Lighthouse Avenue reveals a vibrant strip of acclaimed eateries, bakeries, and cafes — from Red House Cafe to Pavel’s Backerei — making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking diverse dining options in a walkable, small-town setting.
This cluster of boutique shops along Forest and Lighthouse Avenues features everything from unique antiques to local art galleries, specialty gift stores, and bistros, providing a quintessential small-town shopping experience with a personal touch.
Accessible right from downtown, this well-maintained multi-use path runs parallel to the coastline, inviting cyclists, joggers, and walkers to enjoy breathtaking ocean vistas and easy access to both Pacific Grove and nearby Monterey attractions.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This free downtown art walk is especially convenient for residents within walking distance of Lighthouse Avenue. Enjoy gallery openings, live music, open studios, restaurant specials, extended shopping hours, and holiday previews while supporting Pacific Grove’s local creative and small-business community.
View event details →The opening reception offers a relaxed local-night-out option during First Friday, with whimsical artwork, music, food, and opportunities to meet fellow art enthusiasts. The Pacific Grove Art Center’s Lighthouse Avenue location makes it easy to combine with downtown galleries and nearby restaurants.
View event details →Pacific Grove residents can watch runners along the scenic coastal route, cheer participants near Lovers Point, or join the associated local 5K and 3K events. The weekend brings lively race-day energy close to downtown, with ocean views and a strong community-participation atmosphere.
View event details →Pacific Grove’s annual ceremony provides a meaningful, nearby way to honor local veterans and military families. Held at historic Point Pinos Lighthouse, the event combines civic remembrance with one of the city’s most distinctive coastal settings and is suitable for residents seeking a reflective community gathering.
View event details →This free, family-friendly museum program explores monarch butterflies and other remarkable endangered creatures. It is a particularly fitting November activity for Pacific Grove, allowing nearby families and visitors to learn about the region’s seasonal monarch migration through hands-on science and natural-history programming.
View event details →The city’s holiday tree lighting is a convenient way for Downtown Pacific Grove residents to begin the seasonal celebrations close to home. Jewell Park provides a picturesque setting for a communal evening outdoors, making this a welcoming family activity and a festive kickoff to December events.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Downtown Pacific Grove
Local characteristics and demographics for Downtown Pacific Grove
