With Los Angeles and San Diego in Southern California and San Francisco and Sonoma in the North, it’s easy to overlook Central California. One of the greatest gems of California lies just a few hours north of Los Angeles, tucked into the seaside, filled with charm and vibrancy: San Luis Obispo.
San Luis Obispo is known for being an incredibly safe place with a focus on community. It’s also famous for being a pioneer in the accommodation and agricultural industries. San Luis Obispo’s tendency toward quirkiness, commitment to enhancing the quality of life, and beloved wine region make it the perfect place to visit in California.
Discover the 17 reasons why SLO is one of the most exciting places to see on the Central Coast!
Table of Contents
1. Bubblegum Alley
Bubblegum Alley is exactly what it sounds like: an alley covered head to toe in discarded bubblegum. Although it may seem gross, this unique tourist spot is one of San Luis Obispo’s most talked about landmarks.
The 15-foot high, 70-foot-long gum wall is an eccentric cultural timestamp where people from all over come to express current political and world events through discarded gum, like spelling out the phrase “Go Vegan”.
Some historians believe that the bubblegum tradition began as a rivalry between San Luis Obispo High and Cal Poly students back in the 1950s when each set of students would sneak to the alley to “gum over” the other student’s work. However, no one is sure what the true origin story is.
Regardless of how it began, by the 1970s, it was a local favorite, but a nightmare for shop owners. When store owners complained that it was “unsanitary and disgusting”, the city tried to clean up the alley. But by some miracle, the gum stayed and has ever since.
2. Madonna Inn
Looking for a hotel with character? One with a story in every nook? The Madonna Inn is the place to be.
With 110 unique rooms, each decorated with a theme (think rock rooms, pink rooms, waterfall, etc) the Madonna Inn is one of the most unique hotels in the world.
How can the Madonna be anything but fabulous when it touts handcrafted, unique materials in every corner, even hand-carved marble directly from Hearst Castle?
After the first twelve rooms were completed in 1958, the Madonna quickly became a bustling landmark on California’s Central Coast. Stars like Clint Eastwood, Dustin Hoffman, Sam Elliott, and Reba McIntyre have been known to frequent the Inn.
Aside from its luxurious and unique design, it’s also quite famous for its Pink Champagne Cake. It’s a cloud-like white cake with a champagne filling, topped with dramatic hot pink chocolate decorations. It’s one of the most famous desserts on the Central Coast and I’ve known many friends who go to the Inn specifically for a slice of that heavenly cake.
Perhaps the atmosphere at the Inn is most aptly summed up by its creator, Alex Madonna, who was quoted as saying, “Anybody can build one room and a thousand like it […] I try to give people a decent place to stay where they receive more than they are entitled to for what they’re paying. I want people to come in with a smile and leave with a smile. It’s fun.”
3. Kreuzberg Cafe
Kreuzberg Cafe is a staple of downtown SLO. It’s known for its trendy atmosphere, delicious bites, and speakeasy-style open mic.
Opening in 2010, the founders set out to create a cafe that combined the vibrant scene of Kreuzberg (a neighborhood in Berlin) with the breezy, beach style of San Luis Obispo.
It’s a one-stop shop with a properly coined slogan “Come early, stay late”. If you wanted, you could grab a cup of coffee in the morning, eat a hearty lunch in the afternoon, and then unwind with a cocktail at night.
One of the most popular features of Kreuzberg Cafe is its front-of-house nooks. These windowed, cozy corners boast comfy armchairs, a table, and…that’s pretty much it. It’s the perfect spot to work on your laptop and people-watch.
Want to discover some San Luis Obispo talent? Head to Kreuzberg’s cellar every Wednesday night for the longest-running open mic in SLO. The performance is usually kicked off by regulars with “large personalities”, writes reviewer Molly Foster.
Is it a bird? A plane? No, it’s one of Kreuzberg’s open mic regulars Superman, who performs original songs while wearing a Superman costume and flip-flops. While he may look…funny, he sings stories of his encounters with the government and police.
4. Bishop Peak
Looking for an outdoor activity in SLO? Head to Bishop Peak Mountain, one of the tallest of the Nine Sisters, the volcanic mountain range in the region.
Jutting out among the relatively flat San Luis Obispo, Bishop Peak touches the clouds in a majestic and inviting way. Its single-track trail takes hikers to the 1,559-foot summit for a rewarding, panoramic view.
It’s the most popular hike in SLO and usually takes hikers around one to two hours to complete. My friend and I hiked this trail years ago and I’ll be the first to tell you how breathtaking it is; from the views and the hike itself.
Don’t make my mistake and bring plenty of water! In the words of Miley Cyrus, it’s [a] climb.
5. And, scene.
Ah, the theater. A place to laugh, cry, feel, and share. Though it isn’t New York or Chicago, San Luis Obispo has a thriving theater scene.
One of the most notable theaters in San Luis Obispo is the Fremont Theater. Constructed in 1942, it served as both a movie and live theater.
Located in the heart of downtown, it’s been a place for people to gather and experience art for decades. It’s so loved, that when developers proposed razing the building to install a new multiplex, the town rioted to save the theater!
The San Luis Obispo Repertory Theater, previously known as SLO Little Theater, was created in 1947 by a small group of thespians and it’s been a constant source of joy for locals since. In the 2010s, however, the theater grew exponentially, and took the step to becoming the only nonprofit, professional theater in San Luis Obispo County!
I’ve seen many shows here and can say firsthand how special this theater is; full of talented performers and a tight-knit community of supporters. You can feel the magic the minute you take your seat. It’s the little theater that could, and can, and has been for the past 70 years. Fun fact: Zac Efron used to perform here!
Lastly, I’d like to note The Great American Melodrama, because it’s a theater company like none other. Just a short drive from downtown SLO, the Melodrama celebrates the art of Vaudeville through creative, chaotic, and interactive shows. Audience members are encouraged to cheer for the lovers, boo for the villains, and enjoy themselves to the fullest.
6. In the limelight
If you’ve seen High School Musical or pretty much any early 2000’s rom-com, you know who Zac Efron is. But did you know that he hails from San Luis Obispo?
Efron is touted as arguably the most famous person from SLO! He even honed his acting skills at The Little Theater, now SLO Repertory Theater.
Other famous natives include Olivia Taylor Dudley (The Magicians, Chernobyl Diaries), Beth Curry (Superstore, GLOW), and Shannon Lorance (9-1-1, American Horror Story).
7. Delectable dishes
Every street in downtown San Luis Obispo is filled with unique, highly-rated eateries that tempt me endlessly. If I had it my way, I’d go to San Luis Obispo every day just to eat.
Want a comforting New England delicacy? Head to Splash Cafe for their award-winning clam chowder that has been deemed a must-try. They also have fresh, sourdough bread bowls baked daily. No wonder it’s been a fan favorite for more than 30 years!
Since SLO is basically a beach town, it makes sense that they’re known for delicious seafood. Specifically, locals and visitors alike flock to Morro Bay for their oysters.
Oyster farming has been a tradition within the Morro Bay community since the early 1930s, supplying their catch to high-end restaurants across the United States. Stop by any number of restaurants in Morro Bay to try them!
SLO is famous for the Tri-Tip Sandwich, found at many eateries throughout town. It’s served “Santa Maria style”, meaning they use a bottom sirloin subprimal cut, rumored to be the best cut of the whole cow.
Other notable mentions include Woodstock’s Pizza, known for delicious slices and a secret sauce, and Eureka!, a personal favorite of mine, which has the world’s best truffle cheese fries (in my opinion).
8. Why “San Luis Obispo”?
San Luis Obispo’s name comes from Father Junipero Serra who established a Mission in 1772 and named it after Saint Luis, the Bishop of Toulouse.
For those who grew up in California, we learned all about Father Junipero Serra’s long journey to spread Catholicism by establishing missions, marked now by the 101 freeway.
San Luis Obispo Mission is the fifth mission in a series of 21.
9. The Mission
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, shortened to Mission San Luis Obispo, was founded in 1772. Father Junipero Serra enlisted the help of local Chumash Natives, as the story goes, though in hindsight I’m sure it wasn’t as amicable as history would have us think.
The Mission was destroyed in 1832 during a massive earthquake. But now it stands, structurally sound, and is famous for being the only Mission with an “L” – shaped chapel.
Another unique quality is that, unlike other Missions, its doors are open every day of the year!
Today, many visitors come to the property for mass and other events. There’s an onsite museum that holds collections of artifacts from Native Californians and the Mission Era.
10. Avila Beach
Craving the absolute perfect day in the sun? Head to Avila Beach!
Avila Beach is a cozy, seaside town that oozes charm. From Avila Valley Barn, where visitors can take home fresh produce as well as enjoy a variety of farm animals, to Avila Hot Springs, where people can soak in the natural mineral pools that somehow are always the perfect temperature, there is something for everyone.
The beach itself is beautiful, too. Many take a stroll along the long pier that juts out into the ocean, musing at the crystal-blue water below. Others enjoy the swing set on the beach for children and adults!
Along the boardwalk, the vibes are immaculate. There are countless outdoor dining areas with front-row seats to the ocean. My roommate praises one spot in particular, Custom House, which she swears has the best BLT she’s ever had.
Aside from food, there are tons of adorable shops with quirky knick-knacks. My favorite is Beachcomber Bill’s. I always find the perfect gifts for people here, plus they sell the most delicious smoothies to quench your thirst after shopping.
Just when you thought Avila Beach couldn’t get any better, it’s only a short drive away from several vineyards! What better way to end your beach day than with a big glass of locally-produced wine?
11. Be our guest!
As a popular tourist destination, it makes sense that SLO’s number one industry is accommodation and food services! These industries employ roughly 18,500 workers per year.
The second most known industry is health care and social assistance, followed by retail trade.
12. Farmer’s Market
Who doesn’t love a Farmer’s Market, right? Downtown SLO’s Thursday Night Farmer’s Market is one of the most beloved traditions in SLO.
Spanning a five-block area full of more than 120 vendors selling anything from flowers and produce to jewelry and food, it’s no wonder that it’s revered as a “world-famous” market. Buskers line the streets, as well as acoustic and electric bands, adding lively energy. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the mascot, Downtown Brown!
People of all ages can enjoy what the market has to offer. For kids, there’s a bouncy castle, face painting, and other activities.
And if shopping weren’t enough, adults can participate in Bike Night! Starting at 9:30 pm (presumably after the market closes), bikers can head to Mission Plaza on the first Thursday of every month to ride around downtown!
San Luis Obispo is a phenomenal town teeming with life and action. From art festivals and dance parties, to surprise concerts and so much more, there is always something to be seen or experienced here. It’s one of the most community-oriented towns in Central California that I’ve had the pleasure of visiting.
13. CalPoly SLO
Part of why SLO is a lively place is due to its thriving college, CalPoly SLO. CalPoly, or California Polytechnic State University, is best known for its fantastic engineering and agriculture departments.
Since its first classes in 1903, CalPoly SLO has been a leader in agricultural educational development.
According to SLOCal, students learn about everything “from avocados to the anatomy of a cow”. Students in this major are also tasked with creating BBQ sauce, cheese, and chocolate! One student even created the now-famous chain Jamba Juice!
Fun Fact: CalPoly SLO has several famous alumni, most notably Weird Al Yankovic.
14. Morro Bay
About a 20-minute drive from downtown SLO is one of the most beautiful seaside towns, Morro Bay.
Morro Bay was named after Morro Rock, a massive volcanic rock that juts 576 feet up from the ocean. You can often see large gatherings of unique birds enjoying the sun on the rock.
The Audubon Society even named Morro Rock one of the country’s best places for bird watchers. They celebrate further with a four-day birding festival every year!
While you’re not allowed to set foot on Morro Rock, you can definitely kayak around it. When I visited, kayaking was one of my favorite parts. The water was so beautiful and the sea life was so friendly. We often had otters and seals come right up to our kayak (which, I’ll admit, freaked me out a little)!
Morro Bay has numerous hiking trails, fabulous restaurants, and the Embarcadero, a waterfront street full of shops and eateries.
15. Origin story
San Luis Obispo is one of California’s oldest communities. It was founded when Father Junipero Serra established the Mission, though the Chumash tribe inhabited the land long before Father Serra came around.
While San Luis Obispo is a very safe city and was claimed to be the “happiest town in the USA” by Oprah, it used to be a town full of bandits, cowboys, and lawlessness. It garnered the nickname “Tiger Town” because of its ruthless nature.
San Luis Obispo has such a rich, complicated history so I encourage you to look further into it!
16. On the vine
Picture this: it’s a beautifully sunny day and you’re sitting facing satisfyingly symmetrical rows of grape vines sipping the perfect glass of chilled wine.
If you’re visiting San Luis Obispo, this could be your reality.
SLO is famous for producing wine. With more than 250 wineries, you could find a tasting experience perfect for you! This wine region specializes in making Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, which are the two most common varietals of wine in Edna Valley.
Grape growing originated in this region in the 19th century when Spanish missionaries planted seeds for food. It wasn’t until the 1970s that a few individuals decided they should plant grapes specifically for winemaking.
While there are so many wineries to choose from, I thought I’d highlight some of bloggers Nick and Laura’s favorites found on their website. Favorites include Tolosa, which has a fabulous Pinot Noir, and Edna Valley Vineyard, which has committed itself to creating world-class Chardonnays in the tradition of the first vines planted in the area.
17. Motels
Interestingly enough, San Luis Obispo is known for creating the concept of the motel, or “Motor Hotel”.
It all began in the early 1900s when auto-travel became a popular way to get around. Since SLO is a convenient stopping location halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, architect Arthur S. Heineman saw the opportunity to create a spot where travelers could spend the night with their vehicle.
One of the most famous early motels was the Mo-Tel Inn, which housed famous guests Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio during their honeymoon!
Have you ever been to San Luis Obispo? Share your experience down below!
