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
Pacific Grove’s signature monarch-season celebration brings community activities, heritage programming, and family-friendly events within walking distance of Downtown. Residents can easily combine the weekend with local shopping, cafes, the Butterfly Parade, and a stroll along the Recreation Trail while welcoming the annual return of monarch butterflies.
View event details →This colorful community parade is especially convenient for Downtown Pacific Grove residents, with the procession taking place along Lighthouse Avenue. Costumes, school participation, and monarch-themed festivities make it a highly accessible family activity and a natural centerpiece for a full day of Butterfly Days events.
View event details →Held close to Downtown at Caledonia Park, this local show offers practical inspiration for home improvements, gardens, landscaping, and neighborhood projects. It is a convenient way for Pacific Grove residents to meet local vendors and gather ideas without traveling outside the city, with the park setting making it approachable for families.
View event details →Starting at scenic Lover’s Point, this community walk uses Pacific Grove’s waterfront Recreation Trail and is easy to reach from Downtown by foot or bicycle. Local residents can support ALS research while enjoying a social coastal outing, accessible route, and familiar neighborhood landmarks along the Monterey Bay shoreline.
View event details →This nearby science and nature program at Asilomar offers an engaging way for Pacific Grove families and ocean-minded residents to learn about sharks and marine ecosystems. Its location is only a short drive from Downtown, making it an easy educational addition to a weekend already filled with Butterfly Days activities.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Downtown Pacific Grove
Local characteristics and demographics for Downtown Pacific Grove
