Top San Luis Obispo Activities to Enjoy as the Year Begins

San Luis Obispo is the ideal location for anyone desiring to escape the winter blues in the new year. Visitors enjoy the charming small-town atmosphere combined with a variety of activities. Culture, entertainment, and outdoor recreation options are among the many popular local attractions.

Visit the Museums

Community museums provide opportunities for a bit of education, exploration, and fun. Train enthusiasts make a point of touring the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, where visitors learn about the introduction of the railroad to the West Coast. The facility has a wide range of engines, boxcars, passenger cars, and cabooses representing railway history. A 1,200-square-foot model railroad exhibit thrills young and old alike while explaining important routes. 

The History Center has a variety of rotating exhibits that offer a look at local history. Youngsters will enjoy spending time in the Children’s Museum, which features three floors and outdoor areas with interactive exhibits geared toward children up to 10 years old. 

Founded in the 1950s, the Museum of Art features permanent and visiting exhibits created by contemporary artists. Drawings, paintings, photographs, and sculptures are among the many works regularly on display. After a day of exploring the area’s museums, you’ll be ready to grab a cup of hot cocoa and head back for a relaxing evening at your hotel near San Luis Obispo.

Explore Local Viticulture

The Wine History Project of SLO County offers the unique chance to learn about the wine-making process that spans two centuries in California. Exhibits include the tools used over the years to grow, care for, harvest, and transport the grapes. Learn about the wine-making process, from the introduction of the grapes through aging and bottling. Displays explain the information presented on wine labels in addition to why California’s viticulture is unique. Wine tasting opportunities are also regularly scheduled so guests can sample the latest locally produced vintages.

Have Fun in the Sun & Fresh Air

The community of San Luis Obispo is a mere 10 minutes from the coast. Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and Morro Bay are popular choices for people who want to enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or partaking in other water sports.

The area also has a number of hiking trails where you can get some exercise while taking in the sights. The Reservoir Canyon Trail loop spans a little over five miles and travels through oak and eucalyptus groves, along rivers, and past a cascading waterfall. Stroll the two-mile trail that encompasses Laguna Lake, which also features a disc golf course, an exercise course, and hiking trails. Springtime visits include the chance to see native wildflowers in bloom.

Enjoy Local Entertainment

The art deco-style Fremont Theatre presents everything from recently released films to live plays and concerts. Venture to the Downtown Centre Cinemas 7 to catch the latest movie while relaxing in a reclining seat. Grab a snack and a beverage in the beer and wine lounge. The IMAX technology offers larger-than-life presentations. Take the family to the retro Sunset Drive-In to view a single or double feature. Attend early on Sundays and find a treasure during the swap meet.

San Luis Obispo, CA, offers unforgettable experiences all year round, and you’ll love exploring “The Happiest City in America” while staying with us at Sands Inn & Suites. We’re the San Luis Obispo boutique hotel visitors return to again and again because we offer all the amenities our guests need for a relaxing vacation, including an outdoor pool, an on-site gym, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs with digital cable. Call us at (800) 441-4657 today to reserve your room or suite.