What to do in San Luis Obispo, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

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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

฿657
per traveller
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
San Luis Obispo Self Guide Walking Tour

San Luis Obispo: GPS-Guided Walking Audio Tour Via App

฿328
per traveller
San Luis Obispo: GPS-Guided Walking Audio Tour Via App
Santa Margarita: Zipline Adventure with 6 Different Ziplines

Santa Margarita: Zipline Adventure with 6 Different Ziplines

฿3,909
per adult
Santa Margarita: Zipline Adventure with 6 Different Ziplines
3-Hour Kayaking and Hiking in California’s Central Coast

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

฿4,271
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
3-Hour Kayaking and Hiking in California’s Central Coast
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

฿4,609
per adult
72% of travellers recommend
Dune Buggy, UTV or ATV Experience at Pismo Beach
The Fremont Theatre is one of the last Streamline Moderne building in existence.

Essential Downtown SLO: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

฿328
per adult
Essential Downtown SLO: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
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What to do in San Luis Obispo

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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 for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about San Luis Obispo
Learn more about San Luis Obispo
A theater with neon signage and a marquee.
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

Railroad District might not have many top sights, but Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

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Foothill

While there might not be top attractions in Foothill, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Fremont Theater and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

Old Town Historic District

While Old Town Historic District may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Downtown SLO Farmers' Market and Fremont Theater.

A valley with a town surrounded by mountains.

Lower Higuera

While Lower Higuera isn't home to many top sights, Madonna Plaza Shopping Center and Downtown SLO Farmers' Market are some notable places to visit nearby.

Day trip destinations from San Luis Obispo

A pier extending into calm waters with a clear reflection, surrounded by hills and a clear sky.

Arroyo Grande

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

Avila Beach

A vast field of yellow flowers with a mountain range in the background.

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 Centre 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 Centre and Bishop Peak Trail, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of San Luis Obispo's neighbourhoods, Downtown San Luis Obispo is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Old Town Historic District is 0.32 kilometres away from the centre 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 neighbourhoods, 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 Centre of San Luis Obispo County is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.