Page 15 - SLO Visitor's Guide - Winter 2023

San Luis Obispo
There are many things to discover around SLO
The city of San Luis Obispo has much to see and do. It is the seat of county government, a popular dining and shopping destination and a traditional college town reflecting eclectic choices in art, entertainment, food and activities.
Attractions
The San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Mission
The San Luis Obispo de Tolosa mission is one of the best known historical sites in town. Founded by Father Junipero Serra in September 1772, the mission was the fifth of the California missions and named after Saint Louis, Bishop of Toulouse, France. For information about tours and the gardens or attending mass visit missionsanluisobispo.org.
Historical buildings
Other historical buildings, many featuring unique architecture, include the Sinsheimer store with an iron front built in 1884 at 849 Monterey St., the Jack House at 536 Marsh Street, which was built in 1875, the State Historical Landmark Dallidet Adobe at 1185 Pacific St and the 1884 Ah Louis Store at 800 Palm St, originally a supply station for the Chinese laborers who built
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the railroad tunnels through the mountains of the Cuesta Grade.
The Madonna Inn, known world- wide for its elegant and quirky décor, has been a stop for visitors since first built in 1958. The inn, restaurant and over 100 rooms occupy 1000 acres of scenic Central Coast land.
The historic Carnegie Library
on Monterey Street is home to the History Center of San Luis Obispo. Built in 1905, the library is one
in a chain of over 1600 libraries funded by the United States by Scottish-American businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The SLO Carnegie Museum is one
of three still standing and in use on the Central Coast. The other two are located in Lompoc and Paso Robles.
San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens
Gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts are not left out. The San Luis Obispo Botanical gardens, on Highway 1 near Dairy Creek Road
is the only garden in the United States exclusively featuring plants and ecosystems from the five Mediterranean climates in the world. The design includes miles of paved trails and shady resting spots and a variety of other activities.
Hiking and cycling
The city’s Parks and Recreation Department operates several
parks that span 7000 acres of breathtaking views and hiking trails. Visit the website for the City of San Luis Obispo for park maps details about the ease or difficulty of the trails.
The city has over 75 miles of bike paths and what better way for cycling enthusiasts to enjoy a vacation. San Luis Obispo was designated a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists in 2007. Visit bikeslocounty.org for cycling maps for the City of San Luis Obispo, wine trails and other locations in San Luis Obispo County.
Attractions & Tours
Be Hoppy Tours & Tastings
Take a tour that will tantalize your taste buds! Cruise along in a pub-styled limo bus to the best craft beverage destinations in San Luis Obispo county. Great party idea for birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, bachelor/bachelorette celebrations. Beer-Wine-Distilleries-Cider Fun Starts Here! BeHoppyTours.com, 866.BE.HOPPY
Sidecar Tours Inc.
The World's First and Only Tandem Sidecar Experience. We combine the freedom of the open road with a one-of-a-kind thrilling adventure. 6238 Orcutt Rd., San Luis Obispo, sidecartoursinc.com, 951-840-0931
San Luis Obispo Symphony
Bringing music to your community since 1961 through accessible performances and outreach opportunities. By investing in promising local youth with the drive and determination to study orchestral music, SLO Symphony is building the next generation of musicians and music patrons. Visit slosymphony.org for more information
Dining & Drinks
Louisa’s Place
Voted the county’s “Best Breakfast” over 15 times. Open every day from 6am-3pm. Serving up a huge selection of classic breakfast and lunch items
as well as vegetarian, gluten free and vegan options. We’ll see you there! Located at 964 Higuera St. in Downtown SLO, louisasplace.com, (805) 541-0227
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