Atascadero

Charles Paddock Zoo is favored by families who want to spend the day outdoors meeting an array of wildlife. The five-acre community zoo initially opened in 1955 and has been at its current location since 1963. There are over a hundred animals, in varying species, for you to see and learn about during your visit - including Menderu, a male Malayan tiger. Other animals you can see while you’re there are titi monkeys, prehensile-tailed porcupines, lemurs, tortoises, pythons, and bullfrogs. Ornithology aficionados will be excited at the opportunity to see birds such as the blue and gold macaws, Sulawesi ground doves, and Caribbean flamingos.

9305 Pismo Avenue, Atascadero, CA 93422, Phone: 805-461-5080

The Faces of Freedom Veterans Memorial was constructed for people to have a place that remembers veterans of the past, honors military members serving presently, and teaches the youth of the future. The memorial comprises three parts which you’ll get to explore: Pathway to Freedom, Heroes Wall, and the Statue. Pathway to Freedom is a walkway paved with engraved bricks which have dedicated to men and women who have sacrificed a great deal for the United States’ freedom. Heroes Wall is a 70-foot curved wall which has engraved descriptions of each of the US conflicts since World War I. The Faces of Freedom sculpture, also known as ‘the Statue’ is a visual and artistic timeline of the selfless service of the military.

8024 Portola Rd, Atascadero, CA 93422, Phone: 805-462-1267

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

The Jim Green Trail is a short hike that is popular with locals and visitors as it isn’t difficult and provides amazing views of hills, oak groves, and the surroundings. The dog-friendly hike lets you see the outdoorsy side of Atascadero with a 1.7-mile range and 100 feet of elevation. There is a small parking lot for you to get started from; you’ll proceed along a fence which barricades the nearby train track. It’s a loop trail which lets you pick which direction you want to start your adventure in. Much of the trail is shaded and you’ll be able to see beautiful trees that have vibrant leaves and hanging moss.

A part of SLO County Golf’s Trio of Courses which also comprises Morro Bay and Dairy Creek, the Chalk Mountain Golf Course is a great green that is suitable for golfers of all ages and skill levels. As you play through the meandering creeks, ancient oak groves, and rolling fairways, you’ll find that the championship golf course is enchanting and full of character. The course now offers its players the opportunity to travel the green on GolfBoards, which is a fun way to get around and ‘surf the earth’ from shot to shot. It’s a fun place to have a group outing, corporate event, or to even plan and execute your very own golf tournament.

10000 El Bordo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422, Phone: 805-466-8848

Atascadero’s premier 18-hole miniature golf course, Mr. Putters’ Putt Putt can be found in the lively downtown area. It is an ideal attraction for a fun evening with friends and family, as well as birthday parties and group events. Mr. Putters’ encompasses everything that makes mini golf a beloved American pastime, from challenging windmill shots to the animated atmosphere. Mr. Putters’ Sluice Box is an additional on-site attraction which kids love; there’s Gemstone Sluicing and Fossil Dig, which gives you your own set of archaeological supplies to sift through sand and discover your very own fossils.

5625 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422, Phone: 805-466-7888

Where to Eat:

Street Side Ale House & Eatery provides one of Atascadero’s most enjoyable dining experiences comprising killer modern pub cuisine, fun ambiance, friendly staff, and an array of commercial and craft beer and wine. The restaurant has been an integral part of the community since its opening in 2015 and is renowned with their patrons for having a “good food, good beer, and good friends” type of environment. Immerse yourself in the rustic interior and feast on delicious foods like their street fries which are tossed with smoked bacon and rosemary, the cranberry chicken salad with the crunch of candied pecans, and their specialty steak & truffle mac ‘n’ cheese. There are different events every week like Taco Tuesday and Wine-Down Wednesdays for you to enjoy as well.

6155 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422, Phone: 805-460-6820

The Country Touch Cafe was opened in 1985 by Bonnie Peterson, who wanted to share her delicious family recipes with the people of Atascadero. It became an instant success and quickly became favored by locals and visitors alike. Now, over thirty years later, the Country Touch Cafe has remained in the family and continues to serve the tried and tested family recipes which made it so popular years ago. Stop by for a home cooked meal; they’re famed for their signature breakfasts such as the Southern Breakfast which has sausage patties sandwiched between homemade biscuits and smothered in gravy. Pick from their array of chilis, soups, salads, hot and cold sandwiches, and other delicious for a fulfilling meal.

5213, 8135 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422, Phone: 805-461-9176