6 Reasons to Visit San Luis Obispo This Year

Bestowed with the well-earned nickname “The Happiest City in America,” San Luis Obispo is a small California Central Coast locale that boasts an abundance of charm. It should come as no surprise that it’s a welcoming destination for anyone looking to relax and unwind. Take a moment to check out the top six reasons to come to SLO in 2022—a decision you’ll absolutely be glad you made once you get here.

1. A Lively & Inviting Downtown Area

San Luis Obispo’s tree-lined downtown area is highly walkable, spacious, and peppered with a nice mix of shops, eateries, and other delights. It’s also home to a weekly farmers’ market that includes live music and locally curated treats and snacks that include BBQ and other tasty surprises. The event is held every Thursday, weather permitting.

2. 300-Plus Days of Sunshine

On average, SLO receives around 315 days of sunshine per year. This ultimately means there’s never really an off-season here in terms of being able to find things to do and enjoy outside during your stay. In fact, it’s often possible to pack light when coming to SLO, with the only extras you might need being some light layers for chilly evenings.

3. Breathtaking Views

Part of a prominent mountain range known as the Nine Sisters, Bishop Peak is one of the many places in the SLO area where the views have to be experienced in person to be truly appreciated. The Leaning Pine Arboretum offers even more eye-pleasing views, as does nearby Pismo Beach, which is only about 15 minutes away.

4. Plenty of Local Dining Options

Even if you’re not a devoted foodie, San Luis Obispo has much to offer when it comes to both casual and fine dining options. For example, Eureka! is known for its gourmet fare and craft brew selections, and Giuseppe’s Cucina Rustica is one of several local eateries with sidewalk dining options. You also won’t have any difficulty finding great cafés, brunch destinations, dessert spots, and neighborhood haunts that specialize in appetizers and regional brews during your visit here in 2022. After a sumptuous dinner and a few refreshing cocktails, you’ll be ready to return to your boutique hotel near San Luis Obispo for some rest and relaxation by the pool or spa.

5. Many Opportunities to Absorb Local Culture

The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art is just one of several museums in the area where you can absorb local culture during your visit to SLO in 2022. There’s also the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, which features models and artifacts that reflect the region’s locomotive history, and you can explore the San Luis Obispo County Historical Museum, which spotlights local and regional history.

6. Unique Selfie-Worthy Attractions

One other reason to come to SLO in 2022 is because of the ability to delight friends—or followers—with selfies and pics of some of the truly unique attractions in the area. One of these is Bubblegum Alley, where you’ll find walls covered with gum deposited by visitors from all over the world. The Cal Poly Architecture Graveyard and the Dorn Pyramid are among other unique spots that can make your visit here even more memorable.

When you visit San Luis Obispo in the new year, you’ll find so much to enjoy you won’t be able to do everything on your list in just one day, so make sure to reserve a room at Sands Inn & Suites, a premier San Luis Obispo hotel. Bring the whole family to our pet-friendly inn and enjoy our wide variety of amenities, including an on-site gym, heated outdoor pool and spa, complimentary breakfast buffet, and free WiFi. Our staff is dedicated to making your stay unforgettable, so call us to reserve your room today at (800) 441-4657.