San Luis Obispo, roughly halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, impresses visitors with its scenic setting. Here, the natural beauty of California is visible in vineyards, mountains and the nearby Pacific Coast. The town was raised around the mission of Father Junípero Serra, which was established in 1772. Today the downtown area presents a well-preserved collection of Victorian homes and historic landmarks.
All the main attractions of San Luis Obispo are closely grouped around downtown, so it’s easy to get around on foot. Set out to discover centuries-old landmarks, such as the house of Pierre Hyppolite Dallidet, the town’s first winemaker.
Learn about the town’s modern history at the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. This active church also has a museum that illustrates the history of Native Americans and Californian missionaries. Surrounding the site is Mission Plaza. In summer, this is one of the venues of the Festival Mozaic, a popular chamber music festival. While in this area, visit San Luis Obispo Museum of Art. Free events, such as the I Madonnari chalk art and Art After Dark open-house festivals, take place here.
To the north of town is Leaning Pine Arboretum, part of California Polytechnic State University. Here you can see displays of regional plants as well as Australian, Chilean, Mediterranean and South African varieties. Check out the views from the nearby Bishop Peak Trail.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and biking trails of Montana Oro State Park to the west of town. To the east, Lopez Lake has trails for all fitness levels.
Be sure to visit the pier and restaurants at San Luis Obispo Bay and Avila Beach, which are just a 15-minute drive from the town centre.
San Luis Obispo’s food and drink scene promotes homegrown produce, and a farmer’s market takes place every Thursday on Higuera Street, the main shopping area in town. Sample barbecued tri-tip beef, a traditional Californian dish, while you watch street performers and local bands. Wine connoisseurs will appreciate the wineries in nearby Edna Valley, just 10 minutes from the town centre.
San Luis Obispo Travel Guide
Where to stay in San Luis Obispo
Downtown San Luis Obispo
If you're spending some time in Downtown San Luis Obispo, Bubblegum Alley and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa are top sights worth seeing.
Old Town Historic District
While Old Town Historic District may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Bubblegum Alley and Fremont Theater.
Railroad District
Railroad District might not have many top sights, but Bubblegum Alley and Fremont Theater are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
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Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Popular places to visit
Avila Hot Springs
You can take time to visit Avila Hot Springs during your travels to San Luis Obispo. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Find out about the history of San Luis Obispo with a stop at Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Bubblegum Alley
Colorful pieces of chewed gum, some of which have been turned into art pieces, decorate the walls of this narrow lane.
Laguna Lake Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Laguna Lake Park and enjoy the cycling trails in San Luis Obispo. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.
Santa Rosa Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Santa Rosa Park and enjoy the cycling trails in San Luis Obispo. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
Irish Hills Natural Reserve
Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Irish Hills Natural Reserve, a lovely green space in San Luis Obispo. Stroll along the seaside in this family-friendly area or seek out the cycling trails.