Things to do in San Luis Obispo

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Visit San Luis Obispo

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San Luis Obispo Travel Guide

Morro Bay showing mountains and a bay or harbor

Morro Strand State Beach which includes kite surfing, waves and general coastal views

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What to do in San Luis Obispo

Popular places to visit

Avila Hot Springs

Explore the great outdoors at Avila Hot Springs and enjoy the beautiful sunsets during your trip to San Luis Obispo. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

Find out about the history of San Luis Obispo when you take a trip to Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.

Laguna Lake Park

After visiting Laguna Lake Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Luis Obispo. Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Bubblegum Alley

Colorful pieces of chewed gum, some of which have been turned into art pieces, decorate the walls of this narrow lane.

Ah Louis Store

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Ah Louis Store during your travels in San Luis Obispo. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed theater scene.

Santa Rosa Park

After visiting Santa Rosa Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Luis Obispo. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Bishop Peak Trail

Learn about the local history of San Luis Obispo with a stop at Bishop Peak Trail. Discover the beautiful sunsets and shops in this family-friendly area.

Cerro San Luis Obispo

Explore the great outdoors at Cerro San Luis Obispo and enjoy the beautiful sunsets during your trip to San Luis Obispo. Discover the acclaimed art scene and shops in this family-friendly area.

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

Explore the campus of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo during your visit to San Luis Obispo. Stroll along the area's seaside, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.

Areas of San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo featuring general coastal views

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Arroyo Grande

Morro Bay

Pismo Beach

Los Osos

Avila Beach

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 Center 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 Center and Bishop Peak Trail, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of San Luis Obispo's neighborhoods, Downtown San Luis Obispo is 0.16 kilometers away from downtown, while Old Town Historic District is 0.32 kilometers away from the center and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in San Luis Obispo with kids?

If you're looking for activities and attractions for all the family, here are some excellent ideas for what 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 neighborhoods, 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 Center of San Luis Obispo County is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.