Things to do in San Luis Obispo

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A harbor with multiple boats docked, a rocky island in the background, and various plants in the foreground.
A coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters, rocky outcrops, and distant hills.
A marina with boats docked, a mountain in the background, and a pedestrian walkway.
A storefront with a sign for F.McLintocks Saloon & Grill, a neon sign for Happy Hour, and a mural of a cowboy.
A tree-lined street with shops, including a jewelry store with a sign reading "Unique Selection."

Things to do

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

￥3,191
per traveler
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Long, Wide, Low and stable with Giant paddle tires, this is the Only REAL Dune Buggy Experience at the Oceano Dunes.

Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach

￥22,393
per adult
Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach
3-Hour Kayaking and Hiking in California’s Central Coast

3-Hour Kayaking and Hiking in California’s Central Coast

￥20,812
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
3-Hour Kayaking and Hiking in California’s Central Coast
Scenic Sidecar Vineyard Adventure San Luis Obispo

Scenic Vineyard Tour Adventure San Luis Obispo

￥7,182
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Scenic Vineyard Tour Adventure San Luis Obispo
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Most popular activities in San Luis Obispo

Tours & day trips

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Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach

Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 17 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥22,419 per adult
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Private & custom tours

See all 11 activities
Paso Robles: Scenic Sidecar Vineyard Tour

Paso Robles: Scenic Sidecar Vineyard Tour

Activity duration is 1 hour
2.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥11,296 per adult
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Water activities

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3-Hour Kayaking and Hiking in California’s Central Coast

3-Hour Kayaking and Hiking in California’s Central Coast

Activity duration is 3 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 9 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥20,773 per adult
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What to do in San Luis Obispo

Stay near popular San Luis Obispo attractions

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California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

9.4/10 (2,266 reviews)
Cal Poly's "Learn by Doing" philosophy comes alive through hands-on facilities and the unique Architecture Graveyard. Explore the Leaning Pine Arboretum's five Mediterranean climate gardens during your campus visit.
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Where to stay in San Luis Obispo

Find the best San Luis Obispo areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about San Luis Obispo
Learn more about San Luis Obispo
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Photo by Marc Platt
Open Photo by Marc Platt

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.

A historic building with a cross on top, numbered 1772, and a staircase leading up to the entrance.

Railroad District

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Railroad District and surrounding area, you can visit Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater.

A rugged mountainous landscape with rolling hills and a winding path.

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.

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.

A valley with a town surrounded by mountains.

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.

Popular day trips from San Luis Obispo

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Arroyo Grande

A harbor with multiple boats docked, a rocky island in the background, and various plants in the foreground.

Morro Bay

A pier with a Christmas tree at sunset.

Pismo Beach

A sunset over a beach with a pier extending into the water.

Los Osos

A coastal town with a beach, pier, and hills in the background.

Avila Beach

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Santa Margarita

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.