What to do in San Luis Obispo, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

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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


Discover the most popular places to visit in San Luis Obispo

Explore areas of San Luis Obispo

Bubblegum Alley is a tourist attraction in downtown San Luis Obispo, California, known for its accumulation of used bubble gum on the walls of an alley. It is a 15-foot high and 70-foot long alley lined with chewed gum left by passers-by.

Downtown San Luis Obispo

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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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
Aerial view of San Luis Obispo from the hiking trail to Bishop Peak, California

Lower Higuera

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Lower Higuera and surrounding area, you can visit Madonna Plaza Shopping Center and Downtown SLO Farmers' Market.

Lower Higuera
Scenic View of Caliente Range Foothills, Carrizo Plain National Monument, San Luis Obispo County

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 Ah Louis Store and Fremont Theater.

Foothill
Top view of Laguna Lake Park from Madonna Mount, San Luis Obispo, CA, Shutterstock ID 1061772182, Purchase Order: SP-1891 Wave 0, Client/Licensee: Hotels.com

Laguna

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Laguna and surrounding area, you can visit Irish Hills Natural Reserve and Madonna Plaza Shopping Center.

Laguna
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Lower Broad

Though Lower Broad might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater.

Lower Broad

 

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Day trip destinations from San Luis Obispo

Frequently asked questions

Is San Luis Obispo worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor pursuits and history, there are loads of fun things to do in San Luis Obispo. Remember to experience the area's mix of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in San Luis Obispo?
Start your day with a visit to Avila Hot Springs and Avila Beach. Then, check out other areas of San Luis Obispo for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Luis Obispo?
Avila Hot Springs is one of the top tourist attractions in San Luis Obispo and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in San Luis Obispo?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out many city sights, like Edna Valley Vineyard, Performing Arts Centre and Bishop Peak Trail. The average stay in San Luis Obispo is two days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Pismo Beach isn't far away.
Is San Luis Obispo a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in San Luis Obispo. Several key sights, like Performing Arts Centre and Bishop Peak Trail, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of San Luis Obispo's neighbourhoods, Downtown San Luis Obispo is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Old Town Historic District is 0.32 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in San Luis Obispo with kids?
What to do in San Luis Obispo for adults?
Edna Valley Vineyard and Wolff Vineyards are just two of the things to do in San Luis Obispo. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in San Luis Obispo?
From checking out parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in San Luis Obispo. If you need new ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. History Centre of San Luis Obispo County is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.

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