Things to do in San Luis Obispo in February

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Overview

February is a less popular time to visit San Luis Obispo. The weather is usually moderately chilly and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 46—62°F (8—17°C).

San Luis Obispo has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your February trip to San Luis Obispo. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to February. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in San Luis Obispo in February. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout February, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in San Luis Obispo in February

Top experiences in February
We couldn't find any experiences in February
Holidays in San Luis Obispo in February
February
  • Valentine's Day (February 14)
  • Presidents' Day (February 16)
  • Presidents' Day (February 16)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in San Luis Obispo in February

Temperatures on an average day in San Luis Obispo in February

The average temperature in San Luis Obispo in February for a typical day ranges from a high of 62°F (17°C) to a low of 46°F (8°C). Some would describe the temperature to be moderately chilly. The general area may also feel breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in San Luis Obispo, August, has days with highs of 82°F (28°C) and lows of 59°F (15°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 62°F (17°C) and lows of 46°F (8°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in San Luis Obispo in February based on historical data.

Visiting San Luis Obispo? See our San Luis Obispo Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in February
62°F
highs
46°F
lows

General weather summary

Moderately chilly, breezy
Feels like
20%
Chance of rain
0.084 in
Amount
12.5 mph
Wind speed
67%
Humidity
10.9 hrs
Daylight length
6:49 AM
Sunrise
5:42 PM
Sunset
58%
Cloud cover
Sweater
What to wear
What to wear in February
With an average high of 62°F (17°C) and a low of 46°F (8°C), it generally feels moderately chilly and breezy. With that in mind, most people would dress in something moderately warm like a sweater
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Best attractions for San Luis Obispo in February

Besides the array of exciting events and activities San Luis Obispo has to offer for travelers in February, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in San Luis Obispo that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in San Luis Obispo for February.
Bubblegum Alley
1. Bubblegum Alley
4.0
(2079)
Neighborhoods
Points of Interest & Landmarks
An estimated 2 million pieces of chewed gum line the walls of this 70-ft. pedestrian passage.
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It’s hard to rate this 😂 It’s fun to see even though it’s kind of gross! The upper area of the walls are black. People have used their gum to make “art”. Because of the history of the gum wall its worth checking out!
Gross place. It even smells fruity. No idea why this exists. The downtown area is great with nice bars and restaurants. Go to some of them, not here.
Just stop for a few minutes. It is kinda gross but also unusual. If you walk down the alley you will definitely smell different flavors of bubblegum.
Driving around downtown SLO on Christmas Eve, seemed really packed because there was an area to take pictures with Santa, so there was lot of people around. Surprisingly, nobody was at Bubblegum Alley. I got to take alot of pics and really enjoyed looking at the grossness of old gum. Nonetheless, this spot is must see while in the area.
This was a cool find when we were on our family vacation. It's weird and unique like my family. I dared them to lick the wall but no one would lol. We all were chewing gum and stuck it to the wall before we left.
🌟𝔹𝕌𝔹𝔹𝕃𝔼𝔾𝕌𝕄 𝔸𝕃𝕃𝔼𝕐🌟 •••𝚂𝚊𝚗 𝙻𝚞𝚒𝚜 𝙾𝚋𝚒𝚜𝚙𝚘,𝙲𝙰••• August 2022 》Bubblegum alleys is located in San Luis Obispo, CA. 65 feet long and 15 feet high, this alleyway began in the 1950’s, though it is unclear exactly how or why it began. Fully cleaned twice in the 1970’s, it came back each time. By the 1990’s, the gum alley had been there for so long that when the local business association tried to have it cleaned once again, they were politely refused....Pretty Disgusting 🤣🤣🤣🤣 but it was interesting to see it 《
This is a decent gum wall. However I am throwing down the gauntlet and declaring the Seattle gum wall is better. Deducting a star from my rating for having a plaque - this is simply trying too hard.
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
2. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
4.6
(1194)
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
Spanish mission founded by Junipero Serra in 1772, with a church, gardens, a museum & a gift shop.
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This is a fun historical location for both locals and travelers. There are always activities and entertainment on the weekends in the park. They have daily tours of commission. Plus the mission is still operational mass services daily. The garden is cute, and the people are very friendly and knowledgeable. Stop by the gift shop to pick up a little smack to help support 200-year-old building.
Beautiful mission, very relaxing, and well-reserved they had some construction in the front area of mission. The shop was not open or a museum inside. I just got to visit the chapel and back garden area.
The mission is a very beautiful building in downtown San Luis Obispo. You have an option of paying a small entrance fee to tour the church and the mission museum. We enjoyed walking around and looking at the architecture and learning more about the past of the mission.
WOW, what a treat! We stopped in Downtown SLO to wait out the traffic during Labor Day and as we were shopping, we saw the edge of the Mission SLO - WOW! We have visited so many Missions, but seemed to have spaced on this one. We walked through the facility and it's beautiful! Well maintained and 100% open to the public to check out. As Huell Howser would say "That's Amazing!"
The San Luis Obispo Mission is such a beautiful and historic place to visit! The history here is incredible, and it really gives you a deep understanding of local culture dating back to the 1700s. There’s so much to see and explore, and my kids enjoyed it just as much as I did. While we were there, we got to witness two weddings and even a quinceañera, which made the visit feel even more alive. It’s clear this mission continues to be a special gathering place for the community. The location itself is stunning—peaceful, welcoming, and full of charm. Whether you’re visiting for the history, the culture, or simply to enjoy the beauty of the grounds, this mission is absolutely worth the stop.
As a true landmark of San Luis Obispo, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa stands as a testament to the city's origins and growth. This ancient structure, with its weathered crosses and the echoing strains of sacred music, effortlessly draws visitors away from the surrounding hustle and bustle. During our visit, we noticed grapevines already heavy with fruit – a beautiful sight that reminds you of California's unique charm. It's truly a magical place where devout priests reside, yet just across a traffic light from the mission, you'll find an LGBTQ+ pride bar. The proximity of these two seemingly disparate elements, existing without conflict, speaks volumes about the power of inclusivity that defines this city. The church itself is ancient, housing a small museum and gift shop that closes at 4:30 PM. While the overall architecture is old, evidence of later restoration work is visible, blending the past with careful preservation. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa offers a profound sense of history and peace, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area. It's a place that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of SLO.
Beautiful mission. Lovely grounds. Beautiful murals on the walls. There are guided tours given by domiciles. We filled a donation box for the needy and one for the church repairs. My Daughter and I enjoyed our selves and plan to return soon.
What happened to my review for the church's services. I don't know why it was taken down. You know who wer are a family a local family of 6 and I brought my husband with me when I stood in line to ask for a huge need as we're walking a traumatic crisis with a cancer diagnosis. Yet, we got zero helped. I walked away in rage and in tears as me first review was to the point and in depth more to the detail. But here I am laying down homeless yes we're now homeless now , we live in our vehicle and hotels and yet you wrote a check for mental mother for $1800 bucks and offered us literally 1 clothing voucher for my children. As mind you we have 4 kids but they could only give us 1 or 2. Make this all make sense. Thank you God for showing me who your people are and who aren't. Cheers!!!
Avila Valley Barn
3. Avila Valley Barn
4.7
(4416)
Farm
Sights & Landmarks
Family-owned farm with a hay maze, pony & tractor rides, classic barbecue dishes & local produce.
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This place was a fun stop for us in the morning on our way to do more things. There are a lot of farm animals outside, and you can feed them with lettuce you buy at the store. We enjoyed walking around and looking at the animals and feeding them. There is a lot of fresh produce to purchase as well as a lot of nice gift options. We got some souvenirs here and we enjoyed our stop.
We had a great time at the Barn this week! My kids love feeding lettuce to the animals and seeing the chickens. This time, we took the tractor ride for a tour of the farm and then picked our own berries to take home! Ice cream is also a must-get whenever we visit. They had a musician playing music that was very enjoyable for me to listen to while my kids fed the animals.
This is a miniature cute farm that is great fun for the whole family, especially for kids to explore and feed the animals. Besides feeding animals, Children can also try the pony rides. Normally we like to buy the seasonal fruits and vegetables. They are all grown from local farms. I like the gift selections. There are gifts here that you can not get easily at other places. So they have special gifts. They sell some homemade pastries as well. My father-in-law likes the Zucchini bread the best. It has a corner that sells ice cream and drinks. Some light meals are also available while you rest. We tried the Olallieberry pie ice cream which was delicious.
Dear Avila Valley Barn, I had no expectations coming here other than knowing it was close to the 101 freeway and it was a great place to stop. And, indeed, it was a great stop during our drive up the Central Coast. There were families and people of all ages and walks of life at your little farm. There were plenty of places to park and we got lucky finding a shaded spot under a tree near the entrance. There were plenty of things to see here from an ice cream barn on the left, a produce and small market in the middle, a corn on the cob stand, and an area to feed the little goats to the right - and plenty more animals around back. Avila Valley Barn had a variety of fruits and snacks available but I made sure to stand in the long (but fast) line for fresh roasted corn on the cob. It was delicious! We even bought some raspberries to snack on for the ride back. Too bad you were out of your apple cider but that only means I’d have to make a return visit. I did, however, make sure I purchased two of your pumpkin loaves and a giant cookie since all your other loaves were sold out. Oh, and your ice cream was so creamy. It was so delicious on a hot July afternoon. I enjoyed my first visit and I know it won’t be my last. I dream of coming back to Avila Valley Barn. Until next time… Sincerely, Your newest Avila Valley Barn fan
Super Cute & Fun Family Experience! If you have kids, this is an awesome destination that doubles as a knowledge bank for the young minds, if you plan an academic outing as well. Many animals to pet or feed lettuce to, many varieties of u-pick fruits/vegetables/flowers, many little stops all at this farm. Photo-ops galore! And the food? Delicious! We stopped and had the tri-tip & chicken sandwiches which were so fresh & so tasty. I'm already planning a trip to go back for the fall desserts and tip check out the store. No fees to get in, only to feed the animals or to buy anything from the many products & u-pick. We went during pumpkin season so there is also a massive maze!! Fee for adults/kids but a free tiny maze for the little ones.
We have been coming to Avila Barn for years and have watched it grow into this amazing place for families. Now that we have started a little family of our own, we love places like this. It's a second generation owned farm that offers food and fun. During certain times of the year they will bust out the holiday decor and activities for all to experience. Right now they are getting ready for fall so a whole bunch of new things are starting on September. This place can be pricey for some but you can honestly make a fun day out of it and not break the bank if you didn't want to. We ate at the Chicken Shack and Smokehouse (which is BOMB 💣 by the way) rode the tractor 🚜 with our very nice tour guide Bob, picked Gala Apples 🍎 and fed the animals and bought some fruit all for under 100$. So,it can be done.
During our family vacation in San Luis Obispo, Avila Valley Barn was an incredibly appealing stop, especially for our 6-year-old! The animal feeding experience is a highlight, costing just $3 USD for a head of lettuce. Compared to prices in Los Angeles, this felt like a fantastic deal – the lettuce was even cheaper and fresher than what we'd buy for ourselves at an LA supermarket! They have a wonderful variety of animals including sheep, chickens, cows, donkeys, and alpacas, all eager for a snack. Another fantastic activity is the tractor ride, priced at $5 per person (adults and children alike). This 20-minute ride is led by a friendly old man who drives the tractor and shares interesting information about the plants grown on the farm. The farm store is a delight, offering a tempting selection of candies, ice cream, and various fresh fruits. There's also a small restaurant on site. Avila Valley Barn is a wonderful attraction for experiencing a taste of farm life. We recommend setting aside 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for your visit. You can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or bring your own food for a picnic. It's a truly charming and memorable stop for families!
Absolutely LOVED this place and I cannot wait to come back!! We bought so much fruit and snacks. We loved the corn and we really loved feeding all the animals. This was definitely a highlight of our coastal vacation
Downtown SLO Farmers' Market
4. Downtown SLO Farmers' Market
4.8
(383)
Farmers' market
Shopping
Open-air market held every Thursday evening, with local farm stands, street food & live music.
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This is a great downtown for shopping, dining and strolling. Everything is within walking distance. Pay for parking on the street or in parking lots. Maximum parking is three hours. You pay at the kiosk or meter and place the ticket on your front dash board. Handicap parking and access are available. Beautiful tall trees line the sidewalks. The shops and restaurants are right along the main street. You can walk on side of the street than on the other side in the opposite direction so as not to miss anything. There are boutique shops and favorite mall shops on both sides. You have lots of choices of restaurants. We chose SLO Barbeque restaurant. It is a really nice tiwn.
Downtown SLO Farmer’s Market is a Central Coast must-see attraction for locals and tourists. This farmer’s market is big and it’s something far more authentic. It’s a great experience for visitors There are street vendors and local farm stands with many different activities and music. Sweet and savory street food is available but everyone is different and has their preferences. We loved the Feral’s tri-tip sandwich. It was very tasty. Unfortunately, it is not on the restaurant menu. I am always passionate about macarons. I particularly like the raspberry flavor. Monika’s Macarons not only look gorgeous but are also as tasty as they look. I highly recommend the fresh produce from local farmers. It is a little bit pricey but worth every penny. It is always fresh and a high quality.
Always always a good time! It’s definitely more than a farmers market. Great produce, delicious food, and a great selection of items such as goat soap, art, jewelry, etc… also local community booths, such as SLO lacrosse. Gotta love lacrosse!! My parents took me here as a kid, then I took my kids and now take my grandkids. Definitely something for everyone. Entertainment for kids, along with live bands. I moved to SoCal, but when I visit the grandbabies this is a must on the list. This past visit we went on Halloween weekend, so everyone was dressed in costumes, stores were participating in trick or treating. It was fun to see all the costumes and the originality in designs. Since it’s a college town there were lots of bars celebrating Halloween and seeing the group costumes were cool. A herd of minions!!
Busy!!!! Get there early to park. Lots of vendors. One with gluten free items...though kind of rude.
Hands down this was the best farmers market we have experienced. There was a one block area of actual farmers selling a huge assortment of veggies. The 6 block area had live bands, kids events, and the California National Guard Band giving a concert. I wish that our hometown had something like this.
So fun!! Super packed but worth it. The band at the end by the BBQ restaurant was awesome. Lots of food, fresh veggies, and handmade items. Most of the stores stay open late as well so you can browse.
I went through numerous farmers market but night is first and never anticipated during finding parking spot. But it was the best first of all. People really good people here secondly chilly central coast night everyone dressed up wintersy so stylish and beautiful. And I went through numerous schools but cal poly students are so beautiful men and women I don’t know. And they picking up food and listening beautiful live song by song wow unforgettable experience and beautiful smiles everywhere it was heavenly night. I underestimated and not bring 100 miles more but it is worthy it, 20 years ago came here to drop off barely remember locations but I remember so kindness this town 20 years ago and the school so modernized so beautiful California central coast why I like more north and north and so people beautiful here. So happy to see them God bless and these good people bright future for them
The best farmer’s market we’ve ever seen. A massive amount of eating options from BBQ to Mexican food. Very crowded but that’s part of the charm. Side note: the BBQ stand with the guys wearing cowboy hats was very disappointing; barely any meat on the beef ribs ($7.00) each and their bbq beans salty.
California Polytechnic State University
5. California Polytechnic State University
4.6
(476)
University
Sights & Landmarks
This university known for engineering, business & architecture owns a sprawling 3,200-acre ranch.
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I came back to campus for a job fair and was surprised at all the new buildings. It looks great. I graduated in 1999 and it looks like a new campus with all the changes. It is a great school to go to and is in a beautiful setting. “Learn by Doing” is the school motto and it really helped with my education while there.
Men and woman like celebrities faces here very beautiful and campus looks most modern and simple and beauty. Hidden gem like this location Sanctuary middle of California. They can enjoy life of campus without bothering outside of world. Very good students here too. Really these students so gentle. God bless you all bright future. Excellent university. Even male students like Brad pit Jeorge cruni. Tom cruse. Level of appearance and ladies are just remarkable here and very gentle and kind these people like heaven of island middle of California. Facilities bland new and neat and clean amazing This is a my dream school to stay for ever town is amazing.
If you’re debating between Cal Poly SLO and UC Davis, I’ve experienced both systems — and the difference is night and day. At Cal Poly, you get what UC Davis only markets: real education, real outcomes, and real support. Professors actually teach. The “Learn by Doing” motto isn’t a gimmick — it’s how the school runs. Students graduate with skills, not just debt. Meanwhile at UC Davis, I dealt with theory-heavy lectures, checked-out advisors, and endless bureaucracy. Career prep felt more like a brochure bullet point than a real priority. Cal Poly grads leave with portfolios, internships, and job offers. UC Davis grads? Many leave with disillusionment and $58k median income after 10 years. at UC Davis, it felt like Temple Run: nonstop dodging of politics, egos, backroom games, and performative campus culture. Speak your mind the wrong way? You’re out. Need help? Get in line behind the branding team. The culture here is grounded, focused, and non-performative. At Davis, it was groupthink, theatrical activism, and optics over outcome. If you’re serious about learning, building, and getting hired — Cal Poly wins, period…
Absolutely beautiful. Everyone is very happy, friendly, and willing to help out. From the students to the staff they are willing to go out of their way to help you. Some of the housing is older and looks a rundown on the exterior, but the interior is well kept. The campus is compact enough where you can easierly walk from one end to the other, but has enough space that it doesn't feel crowded. Great dining options for dietary needs, gluten free, vegan, and any other allergies. They are constantly updating and remodeling, taking surveys from students to see what they want on campus. A great place!
A top rated engineering school geared toward undergraduate studies that espouses a learning-by-doing approach. Not only is it a top rated school, it's also located on the California central coast, one of the most beautiful places in the US.
Hosted welcome party for the new students at Cal Poly. Great experience and everyone had a great time.
Great looking campus and friendly staff. Graduation ceremonies flowed exceptionally well and water bottles were provided. Parking is a tad inadequate and classes are often located across campus and back again. I wonder if a transit system could be implemented to help provide a way for students to get across campus between classes.
Beautiful campus surrounded by hills. Dorms close to the campus center. Extensive sports facilities and food courts.
Bishop Peak
6. Bishop Peak
4.9
(67)
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Various trails lead to this peak resembling a bishop's miter that is also a popular climbing spot.
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If you start from Highland Drive and Brittany Circle, parking may be hard to come by on the weekends, as the small road leading up to the trailhead doesn't leave much room and can become cramped for space. It has an easy entrance shaded by trees that opens up into the hike after less than a quarter mile. From then the elevation climbs through switchbacks with opportunities for rock climbing throughout. There are offshoot trails that both lead to said climbing walls and at least one that can take you off the main trail but still put you at the summit in reasonable time. This place will be busy, especially if you go on the weekends, so expect to make room for people coming down the hill. Definitely a fun hike, water is necessary and the elevation can easily leave you winded if you're pushing the pace. Lizards and bugs can be seen to the sides of the trail going up, as well as some deer at the base in the trees. Views at the top are great, you can see the entirety of SLO including Cal Poly and the Airport. Will be visiting again soon.
Snapped an epic shot of the peak for sunset last night! Great hike in SLO - another staple of this lovely town. The boulders at the top are super fun to climb around on.
A great hike with panoramic views of the mountains afar. It was foggy when we started in the morning and it made a pleasant hike. There isn’t a trailhead parking, so it’s street parking on Patricia street. It took us an 1 hour 40 minutes round trip.
A really good hike - not for the beginner. Takes about 45 minutes to get to the top and it’s relatively steep. However it more than makes up for it by the views and the satisfaction when you reach the peak. Parking is not easy. You will need to park on the street which is narrow and steep too. I would definitely recommend this hike at least once.
Gorgeous, possibly the best highlight of SLO. Popular to make the sunrise. Didn't do this myself but did try to come early in the morning. Tends to get crowded in the afternoon. The trail is a bit rocky in some places. Probably not good for elderly. But a lot of kids seem to be on the trail.
Well worth the climb to the top on this well used trail. Local college kids are friendly and respect the trail. Bring the family and take your time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings
Great hike! It's very doable, but expect about 40-50 mins to the top. Great view from peak
Best peak at the tri trip challenge. Great view and a little bit harder then the others to hike. More variety in the hiking up as well. 👍
Mission Plaza
7. Mission Plaza
4.6
(269)
Business center
Sights & Landmarks
Gathering spot adjacent to Mission San Luis Obispo with seating areas & many community events.
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The mission inn has always been a delight for me even as a kid growing up. Around Christmas time they decorate the entire thing with lights and it's quite a sight to see. As a family we went to eat at the inside restaurant for brunch and it was delicious. They have a Mexican food restaurant that I enjoy going to. Around the mission Inn are little shops, that I'm sure you'll find comforting just as I do.
I waited almost 2 hours to enter because a wedding was in progress. However I later learned one could come inside quietly and stand or sit in the rear! Fantastic museum and lovely gifts shop.
We visited last year for Memorial Day weekend and it was nice. The Holidays lights made this visit an unforgettable one 😍🤩 Please note 🎅 does have a tight schedule! Make sure you have enough time before they close. Enjoy!
Mission Plaza offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. The lush gardens and shaded benches invite visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. A central fountain provides a soothing focal point and adds to the plaza's charm. Many community events are held here, making it a vibrant gathering place. It's a wonderful place to spend a quiet afternoon or meet with friends. Great place to visit.....
This is a wonderful place to visit when downtown San Luis Obispo. It is home to the 1772 Mission which is a short walk to The San Luis Obispo County Historical Center and other cool places like SLOMA, the art museum. Easy walking and it seems wheelchair accessible. Although most buildings have stair fronts, so likely not those buildings. The plaza itself is a nice place to hang out and relax near the creek or dine at Luna Red, which is wheelchair friendly, with a tasty menu. I love this plaza, it's so historical.
We attended a concert in the Plaza. The band IMVA was playing. They excellently played a mix of pop, soul, and R&B. Front man KB was in top form. His two backup singers sang well rehearsed harmonies. Something you don't see much anymore. Sadly the soundman was unfamiliar with the board and struggled to make a competent mix. Numerous times band members asked for corrections which he responded to by raising the sub-bass. With the exception of two songs, the sub-bass was so loud that you couldn't hear any notes that the bass player was playing. This is soul and R&B where you need to hear the bass notes. We could see the bass being played. All we got was an assault of dull thud. Three times the soundman cranked up some of the mid-high frequencies to ear bleed levels. Each time you could hear the high frequecy drivers crackle. It all appeared to be in error but all the ears in our entire group are still ringing two days later. We were able to move around to try to find a spot where the sound might be better. It wasn't. They should have provided someone familiar with the mixing board. Other than bad sound, we had a great time in the plaza. Security was plentiful and efficient. Food and drinks were readily available.
This place is beautiful. But they could not smile and not kindly. I didn't recommend it. Also, the price is very high.
Charming collage town. Plenty of free parking and public restrooms. So many shops and restaurants. Patios all over the streets so don’t worry it’s open here. Take your masks and hand sanitizer and you are good to go. The mission is closed but you can see it outside and enjoy the gardens all around it. Enjoy locale artists at the galleries and enjoy the San Louis obispo creek running through downtown.
CA-1
8. CA-1
Outdoor Activities
Scenic Drives
Sunset Drive-In
9. Sunset Drive-In
4.6
(1632)
Drive-in movie theater
Concerts & Shows
Family-friendly, large-screen movie venue with concession stand, showing 2 new releases nightly.
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I really enjoyed the drive-in! The place is clean, and the service good. This is a cash only place. It truly makes me very sad to see these places disappearing.
I luvd it but it was misty n cold when we went i will go back again.
I just love this place. Brings back the memories as a kid. I have brought my kids here numerous times as well. Nachos are super yum. Make sure you spend money at the concession stand to support the place. Wear warm clothes and bring camping chairs if you want the best experience.
They do have radios for rent if you don't have your own. It is cold at night so wear WARM clothes!!! The foggy, misty nights are my favorite. I always bring my dog, radio, camp chair, BLANKETS and small igloo. And don't forget to wear layers so you will BE WARM! You will be sad and want to go home early if you don't. The bathrooms are clean and the concession stand is very retro, I always buy a little something for the show❤️🍿🎥
I could see and hear the movie clearly and had some fun and well-priced snacks to enjoy it with! I only wish there were better movies offered. Even some oldies/re-runs would be better than the low quality new movies that come out.
Cool experience! One of the last drive in movie theaters in California. Decent popcorn, terrible tamales. Friendly service. There are 2 non functioning pinball machines inside.
The best of drive in experiences - nostalgia guaranteed! Not only did we get to see a fun movie but the beauty in the sky was spectacular - awesome cloud formations with stars above. We meet with my sister-in-law - my nephew spent $10 on candy and came back to our group with quite a collection. Nights can get cool so bring jackets and blankets.
I love this place!! Its the perfect spot for date night. Family night, or girls or guys night out!! I have been coming to see movies here with friends, lived ones and various other groups of colorful SLO locals my entire lifetime. -its never super crowded, you can gab as loud as you want to, leave your ringer on your cell phone on, and consume whatever treats you can fit in your cooler!! Also, its about half the cost per person compared to seeing a flick in the seated theatres....But yes, in high school, someone was always hiding in the trunk anyways 🙃....i highly recomend going to the drive-in, at least a couple of times, just because its so very different than the alternative. Oh! And they always play 2 movies back to back!
Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards
10. Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards
4.6
(278)
Winery
Food & Drink
Quaint local vineyard in charming surrounds offering a range of wines, plus tastings & events.
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By far the most important winery in the Central coast appellation. Kelsey vineyards brings the epitome of wine and cider creation for the state of California with smaller facilities than most boutique wineries in the region. One of the last remaining local owned, family owned properties and wineries in the state. Only fools would pass this location up when driving north or south on 101 it’s only minutes from the freeway exit, but secluded like an untouched swimming hole, a closely guarded secret of the San Luis Obispo area. What are you waiting for? Go talk to their wine maker right next to the tasting room! If you don’t believe me, prove me wrong.. but you’re going to have to spend a few hours amidst the vines and peacocks before you judge this brilliant environment for dogs, kids, family, friends, lovers, newlyweds, anniversary visits and more. Also the cheese is like so flipping good. I could eat all of it. All. Of. It. Cheers and enjoy!
The wine tasting was pretty good, but I most enjoyed the grapefruit cider that was so refreshing. This place is located along a side road near the edge of a mountain, with a family of peacocks that steal the show. Very relaxing and peaceful with no traffic noise.
We're in town from Chicago visiting our son who's stationed in Lemoore. I looked up this place and glad we checked it out. Great atmosphere, tasty wines, and cider beers. We met the owner, a very nice guy, and he had a couple of friendly dogs there, as well as some peacocks on the land. We bought a bottle of wine and a 4 pack of cider beer to go and would definitely return!
Such a cool place. Great wines. The weather always seems just right. Looking forward to my next visit.
Went visited on Father's Day and to celebrate my daughter's graduation. Loved the wine. The tasting was a good value and works on a 'chip' system. You have to use all the chips in one session. There was live music, which was great. The employees were very friendly.
Beautiful little vineyard. I received a voucher for two free wine tastings and their wines are good. especially the ones are infused with Apple . The peacock's were amazing there they have a white peacock which I've never seen in my life. They have a little Vineyard there but that's not really where they get the majority of their grapes for their wines I'm sure. It's a cute little area to sit have some wine, have some cheese and some snacks and enjoy the sunshine. Very very cute!
Intimate, quiet location with great wine and hard ciders. Always on our list to go to when in the Pismo Beach area. Beautiful drive into the canyon.
While the fancy wineries are nice, we really like finding a family vineyard that feels like you've been invited to join them on the back yard! This is your vineyard if you like this! Dogs will amble by, peacocks will interrupt your conversation, and much relaxation will occur. And great wines (and even cider!).
Tolosa Winery
11. Tolosa Winery
4.5
(182)
Winery
Food & Drink
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Kayden was a terrific host. She was warm and kind and filled with info. The setting was gorgeous and with all the lavender, we felt we were in Provence! It was on the expensive side, but we have no regrets. The charcuterie came in a plastic container but it was absolutely delicious and was more than it first appeared. Thank you Tolosa and Kayden❤️❤️
A group of us "old folks" (77 years to 85 years of age) made reservations for a tasting on an unusually warm day. Two of our group were actually members. However, we were seated outdoors and during our tasting the temperature rose to 94°. As we struggled with moving chairs around to find shade we were never offered the opportunity to sit inside of the tasting room with air conditioning. Our eldest member eventually went inside and sat in a chair by himself. Although our server was very friendly and knowledgeable and the wine delicious (albeit a bit pricey), I think an effort should have been made to move us all inside, if not just for our comfort but also for our health. Except for the fact that we were all enjoying each other's company, it was not a pleasant experience. In fact, given the age of a few of our group, it was, in my opinion, dangerous.
We went for wine tasting. They advertised 2 different wine fights so we decided to split them so we could try both flights. They were expensive and the pours were less than 2 sips. We also ordered the charcuterie board which came in a cheap to go container. We were disappointed in our experience, won’t be back and will not recommend the place.
Very disappointed with this wine tasting experience. We showed up at 5 pm the greeter seemed like he did not have the energy or time for us. Our pourer was dry and rude and did not even tell us much about the winery or each wine. We tasted two Chardonnays and 3 reds don’t even remember they all tasted bad plus we had barely enough taste to wet my plate. Tasting cost $45 each and to wavy that cost you had buy two bottles cost was (45 -75 a bottle). They need to rethink the way they want to portray the brand of Tolosa. Very disappointed with this tasting will not be recommending this place to anyone and would have given it 0 stars if I could.
Hands down one of the best wineries, especially if you're a Pinot Noir fan. Elegant tasting room, and plenty of outdoor seating. You can even buy a bottle per couple if you want to chill out and bring a picnic. Right off 227, easy to find, in the Edna Valley. My pictures are from October, so dry late autumn, but this is a gorgeous place and my family has a membership for good reason. I biked here on the trail, but there are many ways to get there.
2nd visit and still like their wine. Good wine, viognier was perfect. We discovered this vineyard just driving by. Our wine hostess was knowledgeable and friendly, and we actually joined the wine club! A great experience. Oh, and the view from the club members room is to die for! Become a member, then you get the real nice treatment.
Our second tasting here was enjoyable. We had someone who was able to talk about the wines and processes of making each one and answered our questions! It ooks like a great venu for larger outdoor seated groups. Be prepared to sit outdoors or stand inside.. I'm glad we went!
My parents are members here so I have been here many times for wine tasting and to do pick ups for them. The location is beautiful, the staff are very friendly and helpful, and we love their wines.
Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo
12. Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo
4.8
(692)
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Modern performance venue comprising the Christopher Cohan Center & the Alex & Faye Spanos Theatre.
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I have sat a little more than half way and found opra glasses would be helpful to see expressions. Acoustics are incredible. From the third row you see clearly and the sound is still great. The photo shows how big the place is.
I’ve been here for two concerts. A great venue that feels new and intimate. The acoustics are great. I like that the parking is in the adjacent structure and easy access to the venue (and free for the events I went to).
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 A True Gem on the Central Coast – Cal Poly Performing Arts Center The Performing Arts Center at Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you're a local or visiting the area, this venue is a must-see. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted with beautiful architecture nestled right against the scenic Cal Poly campus and rolling Central Coast hills. The acoustics inside the main hall are world-class—crisp, immersive, and warm—making it a favorite for both symphonies and Broadway-level productions. Every seat feels close to the action, and the attention to design creates a truly intimate experience, no matter the performance. Beyond the performance space, the entire Cal Poly campus is stunning. It’s a perfect blend of academic energy and natural beauty. Walking around before or after a show is a treat—especially during sunset. The staff and volunteers are kind, helpful, and clearly passionate about the arts. Parking is easy, the facilities are spotless, and the lineup of events year-round is impressively diverse. From student productions to world-renowned acts, there’s always something happening. Whether you're a lover of theater, music, dance, or just looking for a memorable cultural night out, the Cal Poly PAC delivers. I can’t recommend it enough!
Last night we went to the PAC, to see Blind Boys of Alabama. Unfortunately Corey Henry was the first half of the show. Too say he was the WORST would be an understatement. He came strolling out on stage 20 minutes late sipping on what appeared to be a coffee. As if that wasn't bad enough, he was not prepared, didn't have a set list, just started doodling around on his piano, and synthesizer. No apologizing for arriving late from anyone. After 45 minutes of telling people to go buy his album, where he would be appearing next, shows at his church and 3 or 4 numbers(?), we had had enough! As we went to the lady in charge to tell her how disgusted we were about Corey Henry, three other couples were also coming to the lady to voice there displeasure in what the PAC had presented. Needles to say we never did see Blind Boys of Alabama, the act we paid good money to see!! Refund please!
Great Venue & Diverse Programming. We've attended dozens of different shows here, and all have been top notch. Always a great evening. Sound is excellent.
The CalPoly PAC (Performing Arts Center) is truly amazing! It's been a hub for diverse art formats and enriching the community for all ages. I've enjoyed tens of events here, and they always go off without a hitch – a testament to the "hundreds of people behind the scenes" the announcer mentioned. The sound, lighting, and visibility are great, and parking is always close by and not a hassle. Most recently, the SLO Opera offered a wonderful opportunity for children to test their interest in the professional arts and perform in the chorus. Attending the PAC is always rewarding! I can't wait for the next curtain call.
I’ve worked here, my kids have performed here, I adore and work with nonprofits who perform here, I’ve seen it develop and appreciated its history, and it’s a place I go to at least once a month. It’s a part of my life and my family’s experience of this beautiful County. My only complaint - does the concession stand REALLY have to be so expensive? 😆
I recently visited the PAC for the first time. We had tickets to see the Pipe Organ Christmas Concert and was in awe of the sound through out the room. Such a beautiful theater and I can't wait to go back. 10 star in my book
San Luis Obispo Children's Museum
13. San Luis Obispo Children's Museum
4.5
(88)
Children's museum
Museums
A range of temporary & permanent interactive exhibits designed to inspire learning through play.
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A small but fun children's museum tastefully designed with many activities that can keep kids engaged for hours. It really exceeded our expectations and is some place we are looking forward to visiting again!
The San Luis Obispo Children's Museum is a delightful destination for families with young children. With its three floors of interactive exhibits, it offers a perfect blend of fun and learning for kids aged 2 to 10. The hands-on activities are a hit with the little ones. The museum is thoughtfully designed, with engaging spaces that spark creativity and imagination. While it's not the largest museum, it makes up for its size with the quality of its exhibits and the joy it brings to children. Overall, it's a fantastic place to spend a couple of hours, and I highly recommend it to families visiting San Luis Obispo!
There is 3 levels of exhibits. The first floor is science cause/effect based exhibits. The 2nd floor consists of interactive real life play exhibits such as construction, a diner, and doctor office. The third floor has activities suited for children under 3. There is also outside activities like a water table and play houses. Overall this is an excellent museum and space for children to play.
My grandson had so much fun. Three stories of different activities. The staff were very friendly. There were plenty of restrooms and hand sanitizer stations everywhere. Masks are required so don't forget them.
Such a great children's museum. There's three different levels with different activities. Definitely entertaining for the kids, highly recommend.
The Children's Museum is absolutely fabulous. Great for all ages. The director, Madison Graham, perfectly coordinates 3 stories of indoor and outdoor engaging interactive displays and equipment. There is pay parking on the street. Plan at least 1-1/2 hours and even then you'll be back for sure.
This is an awesome place for the kids to play and paint. There is so much stuff to do for kids of all ages. It’s 3 stories and an outdoor area. I would highly recommend stopping by.
EXPERIENCE: amazing place for kids to explore, learn and have for fun with science and experimenting different careers, like cook, fireperson, doctor and more. COVID-19: the museum is taking all the precautions to ensure the safety and health of everyone: separate and limited session throughout the day, individual play kits and alcohol gel in every corner.
Wolff Vineyards
14. Wolff Vineyards
4.8
(216)
Winery
Food & Drink
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We attended a Dog Day event here and it was wonderful! The whole event felt very well thought out. It was very welcoming and the wine was amazing. If you’re looking to have a nice relaxing afternoon Wolff Vineyards is a great place to consider. We brought a bottle of one of their reds home. We also enjoyed the puppy company ❣️
Great place for a tasting. The location is beautiful, on a small hill overlooking fields and mountains. We liked the explanation from the staff.
I just had my 21st birthday tasting there and it was FABULOUS! The staff were so kind and welcoming, and they gave me a room in the back to store my cake, extra food, and decorations. It was such a beautiful winery and I had the best time! Definitely recommend this place to anyone with a large party in mind (I had 12 people) because they are super accommodating and allow you to bring in food and decorations.
Love this place! So beautiful and the wine is fabulous! My favorite is the old vine Chardonnay and my second favorite is the Petit Sirah. On the third Saturday in the summer they have live music and a food truck. So much fun!
Wolff vineyards is an amazing winery. Great views and very scenic. If your party is large call ahead otherwise plenty of seating. Great service the employees are very friendly. Had Rose, sparkling Rose and Chardonnay. Very good wine. Location is terrific for dates or with friends. If you're passing through the area Wolff is a must stop. Central cali ambiance can't be beat. One of the best wineries in the area.
Fun family owned winery. Great wine, great people and good location. They do a buttery Chardonnay, a killer petite sirah (inky) and a unique varietal called Teroldego. Buy it if you can get it. The do fun events and Friday Sunset in the Vineyards during the summer with music and food trucks
We had an amazing time wine tasting here! Our favorites were the Syrah and petite Syrah. $20 tasting fee but waived if you get 2 bottles. The ambiance is beautiful and you can walk around the property.
A fun local family run vineyard with winery. Great people and very good wines at reasonable prices. Wolff has been having Friday night music and food trucks in for sunset.. this was just as we were leaving on Friday the 13 (July 2018) Nice crowd and a great, reasonable night out.. The regular Friday music is now done for the season, (as of October) but still a nice place for a variety of wine, and they now have some snacks available, which I have not yet had a chance to try.
San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
15. San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
4.4
(113)
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
This botanical garden dedicated to Mediterranean ecosystems & plants also has miles of paved trails.
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This was such a beautiful, chill place. The flowers are amazing, and we had a nice chat with a gentleman on a tractor who filled us in on the "landscape." It's definitely worthy of your time if you're in the area!
Went for the Christmas special on Sunday evening the weekend before the holiday. Pretty good show with all the lit trees.
Pretty disappointing. It was $10 per adult for a highly underdeveloped “botanical garden”. The only areas that were developed was the children’s area, the fire resistant area (a small area with succulents), and the Chilean Wine Palm Grove (just some palm trees dispersed in the dry grassy hills). I personally think this garden should have been free with an optional donation requested until it is fully developed. Added a picture of the map with 90% of the areas showing as a future development or under construction. The lady helping us was very nice though and the gift shop was cute.
A lovely place. I really appreciate the wishing tree in the children's garden - it's so interesting to look through the wishes people have left! They also host interest events; I enjoyed the recent mushroom biogeography talk. The garden has interesting relevant information on plant strategies for wildfire-prone areas.
What a hidden gem! So many plants to look at and great learning opportunities. Great for all ages as they have a kids garden on the other side. Do the hike (take comfortable shoes)! Worth the huffing and puffing, the view up there was spectacular.
The SLO Botanical Garden is small and it’s not signed as well as it should be for visitors. I would’ve loved to have known what I was looking at. Wasn’t crowded during the week. Bathroom was open and stocked. The children’s garden is cute but again, would’ve been great to have more signs so kids and adults can learn.
Lovely gardens! I especially enjoy going here to hike a bit with my daughter, family, or friends! My boys like the children's garden area and the kid's park.
Not a large, facility, but a good assortment of plants adapted to mediterranean climates. Most plants are labeled. Even if the scientific stuff doesn't excite you, it's a pleasant place for a stroll. And off-season parking is free.
Orcutt Road Cellars
16. Orcutt Road Cellars
3.0
(1)
Permanently Closed
Winery
Food & Drink
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I read about place in a magazine and decided to check it out. Cool set up and the wines were decent but the servers were very pretentious and seemed like they wanted to get you out asap. I think there are so many better places to go while in Edna Valley.

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