Things to do in San Luis Obispo

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San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo Attractions

Located in the heart of California's central coastal region, San Luis Obispo, CA is a hidden gem among the lush green forests surrounding the area. Tourists who visit the area often talk about some of the must see attractions everyone should experience at least once when in the area. San Luis Obispo excursions offer the perfect way for families and couples alike to escape from the stress of everyday life.

Before exploring any of the local SLO spots, visitors should take some time to meander through the downtown area by foot. With a map in one hand and a bottle of water in the other, walking through the historic downtown area is the best way to see the city first hand.

Walking through San Luis Obispo also offers a great chance for people to find little restaurants and coffee shops that would have likely been missed by car. The downtown area features a large variety of outdoor delis and cafes many San Luis Obispo tours miss when passing by.

After an afternoon stroll through the town, head to one of the many wineries in the area. A wine tour is often one of the most popular things to do in San Luis Obispo, primarily because of the great views that every winery offers from their tasting rooms. A tourist can spend multiple days just traveling to the top wineries in the area and could still have missed out on some great vineyards.

If wine tours aren't your thing, make sure to head to the surrounding area and participate in one of the most popular San Luis Obispo activities: hot air ballooning. Hot air balloons are a great way to see all of the attractions in San Luis Obispo and is a great romantic date for vacationing couples.

San Luis Obispo is one of the best places in California for people of all ages. Don't miss this opportunity for an affordable vacation to one of the most relaxing destinations on the west coast.


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What to do in San Luis Obispo

Free Things to Do in San Luis Obispo

A vacation in San Luis Obispo need not break the bank. You can leave your wallet behind if you check out:

History Center of San Luis Obispo County - Talk to the friendly staff or curator and learn all about the interesting collections held here.

Laguna Lake Park - Allow time to play and add some extra fun to your vacation here.

San Luis Obispo Superior Court - Architecture buffs will no doubt enjoy marveling at the impressive modern design of this local landmark.

California Polytechnic State University - Visit this historic site and learn a little about the cultural heritage of the region.

Mission Plaza - Sit for a while in this thriving area and imagine life as a local.

San Luis Obispo County Library - Well known among the locals, this place is worth a look.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa - Get a better understanding of the local beliefs at this place of worship.

Cerro San Luis Obispo - Get ready for views that'll leave you amazed at this natural marvel.

Santa Rosa Park - If you love working in your garden, this attraction will captivate your green thumb.

Things to Do in San Luis Obispo with Kids

You'll find loads of fun things to do in San Luis Obispo with the kids. Make some new memories together with these family friendly experiences:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in San Luis Obispo

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo

Downtown San Luis Obispo

4.5/5(102 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Downtown San Luis Obispo, Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown San Luis Obispo
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Laguna

While visiting Laguna, you might make a stop by sights like Madonna Plaza Shopping Center and Irish Hills Natural Reserve.

Laguna
Go online and look for an evening that suits your mood and painting style. Local artists walk you through this artist process. I happen to be a hopeless romantic and painted the "Love Birds" Simple beverages served, with a small selection of appetizers to keep you mellow and content as you paint with friends.

Railroad District

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Railroad District and surrounding area, you can visit Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater.

Railroad District
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Old Town Historic District

When in Old Town Historic District, you can plan a visit to Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Old Town Historic District
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Lower Higuera

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Lower Higuera and surrounding area, you can visit Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

Lower Higuera
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Foothill

While Foothill might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Fremont Theater and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

Foothill

 

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Popular day trips from San Luis Obispo

Frequently asked questions

Is San Luis Obispo worth visiting?
Whether you want to discover the local charm and cultural attractions or try unique foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in San Luis Obispo.
How do I spend a day in San Luis Obispo?
After you've visited popular attractions like Avila Hot Springs and Avila Beach, spend the rest of your day discovering San Luis Obispo's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Luis Obispo?
You can't leave without visiting Avila Hot Springs, rated the top tourist attraction in San Luis Obispo.
Is three days enough to stay in San Luis Obispo?
Three days in San Luis Obispo is enough to visit the city's major highlights. Many guests stay for two days on average. Edna Valley Vineyard, Performing Arts Center and Bishop Peak Trail are among the most popular sights. Like to see more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like Pismo Beach.
Is San Luis Obispo a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city center, San Luis Obispo is a great place to explore on foot. Have fun wandering between Performing Arts Center and Bishop Peak Trail. Then take a stroll through Downtown San Luis Obispo, located 0.1 miles from the center, and Old Town Historic District, which is about 0.2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in San Luis Obispo with kids?
Planning what to do in San Luis Obispo with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're vacationing with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them happy here.

What to do in San Luis Obispo for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of Mother Nature, there are lots of things to do in San Luis Obispo for adults including Edna Valley Vineyard and Wolff Vineyards.
Are there free things to do in San Luis Obispo?
In San Luis Obispo, History Center of San Luis Obispo County is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local parks and neighborhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in San Luis Obispo.