"San Luis Obispo is California cool with a small-town soul: sun-soaked vineyards, Spanish-style streets, and just the right mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s the kind of place where I slow down, breathe easy, and find joy in the little things."
I’m strolling through a farmers market, sipping local wine, and catching golden hour from a hillside trail—all wrapped in the laid-back charm of San Luis Obispo. Who knew a town this mellow could feel so full of life?
I start downtown with Bubblegum Alley (yes, it’s weird and wonderful), then explore the mission and local boutiques along Higuera Street. For nature with a view, Cerro San Luis or Bishop Peak gives me fresh air and photo-worthy panoramas. I always leave room for a bite at Big Sky Cafe or fresh pie from Linnaea’s Café, and if there’s time, I head out to nearby Edna Valley for vineyard views and afternoon tastings.
Best Things to Do in San Luis Obispo:
See an exhibition at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art -
Experience California's railroad history at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum -
Shop and enjoy fresh produce at the SLO County Farmers Market -
Discover California Highway One Discovery Route -
Tour the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa -
Spend a romantic afternoon at the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden -
Take the kids to the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum -
Get ice cream at Avila Valley Barn -
Hike to Bishop Peak -
See the strange Bubblegum Alley -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • See an exhibition at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art
- • Experience California's railroad history at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum
- • Shop and enjoy fresh produce at the SLO County Farmers Market
- • Discover California Highway One Discovery Route
- • Tour the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
- • Spend a romantic afternoon at the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
- • Take the kids to the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum
- • Get ice cream at Avila Valley Barn
- • Hike to Bishop Peak
- • See the strange Bubblegum Alley