San Luis Obispo Holidays
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Where to stay in San Luis Obispo
Downtown San Luis Obispo
City centre San Luis Obispo blends historic charm with modern energy around its iconic 1772 Mission. Wander pedestrian-friendly streets lined with well-preserved Victorian buildings and boutique shops. Thursday's farmers' market transforms the area into a lively festival of local produce, artisanal foods, and street performers. The mission's adobe walls and red tile roofs anchor this walkable district where California history meets college-town vibes. Visitors can explore art galleries, sip Central Coast wines, or simply relax in Mission Plaza along San Luis Obispo Creek.
Railroad District
The Railway District blends industrial charm with artistic energy in San Luis Obispo's creative hub. Historic brick warehouses now house galleries, studios, and craft breweries where train whistles once dominated. The restored Railway Museum showcases vintage locomotives that celebrate the area's heritage. Wander through this walkable area to discover local artwork against exposed brick walls. Farm-to-table restaurants and artisanal coffee shops occupy converted spaces with industrial-chic aesthetics. Colourful murals and the occasional train whistle create a uniquely authentic atmosphere for art enthusiasts.
Foothill
Foothill offers a peaceful residential retreat next to California Polytechnic State University. This quiet area features tree-lined streets and modest homes away from city centre bustle. You'll experience authentic local life in a university community setting. Student apartments and rental houses provide budget-friendly accommodation options during academic breaks. Travellers visiting campus events or students will appreciate the convenient location. The area offers limited dining and shopping but provides easy access to Cal Poly's facilities and nearby mountain hiking trails.
Old Town Historic District
Step into the historic heart of San Luis Obispo, where Spanish colonial charm meets modern California living. The Old Town Historic District centers around the iconic 1772 Mission with its white adobe walls and red tile roof. Brick-lined pavements lead to vibrant shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and peaceful Mission Plaza. Thursday evenings transform the district with the popular farmers' market featuring live music and local food vendors. History buffs will appreciate the SLO History Museum housed in the 1905 Carnegie Library. The pedestrian-friendly layout makes exploring this welcoming area a true pleasure.
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.
Discover the most popular places to visit in San Luis Obispo
Fremont Theater
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
What to do in San Luis Obispo
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San Luis Obispo Hotel Deals
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Luis Obispo Downtown
Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo
Quality Suites Downtown San Luis Obispo"We had a wonderful 2 night stay. The lobby was bright and beautiful. Our suite was large, clean and very comfortable Complimentary breakfast was good. They offered hot and cold items.. Complimentary happy hour was also good. Wine, beer or sodas. Plus some nibbles. They also offer a bbq for nominal cost. We also enjoyed the hot tub. Great location.. Easy 15-20 min walk down Monterey St to downtown SLO. This was by far the best value for your money. Plus free parking. Will definitely come...
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo"This place met my standards and beyond very nice place to stay very reasonable price. I enjoy my time."
Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo
Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo
Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo
Hampton Inn & Suites San Luis Obispo"The room was clean and spacious and the breakfast was yummy. Overall, it’s a nice and quiet hotel. The only downsides were that the shower did not have a shower curtain, there was no body wash in the bottle provided, and you have to pay $15 for parking."
The Wayfarer San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Wayfarer San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Find out more about San Luis Obispo
Things to do in and around San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore educational sites, enjoy recreational areas, and unwind at local spas. Key activities include scenic drives, holiday events, live music, and various adventure opportunities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a picturesque getaway filled with excitement and relaxation.
Shopping
Experience the vibrant Downtown SLO Farmers' Market, where you can find local produce and unique gifts. For more variety, visit Madonna Plaza Shopping Center, offering entertainment and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, the Pismo Beach Surf Shop is also a great spot for surf-related souvenirs.
Recreation
At the Fremont Theater, enjoy a cinematic experience with family-friendly films, perfect for relaxation and entertainment. The Performing Arts Center offers a cultural escape with romantic shows and engaging performances. For outdoor wellness, Laguna Lake Park provides a serene environment ideal for leisurely walks and rejuvenation amidst nature.
Adventure
Explore the Bob Jones City to Sea Bike Trail, located 12.9km from San Luis Obispo, where you can enjoy a scenic ride amidst beautiful landscapes. Visit Avila Valley Barn for a fun-filled day of farm activities, and hike the Reservoir Canyon Trail for stunning views and a sense of adventure.
Nightlife
San Luis Obispo's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of bars and live music. Visit The Frog and Peach Pub for a lively atmosphere and craft beers, or enjoy cocktails at SLO Brew Rock while catching local bands. Experience the charm and energy of this Californian gem.
Find the best attractions in San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and picturesque scenery, making it an ideal destination for a varied vacation. Visitors can explore historic colleges and universities, enjoy the local beaches, and immerse themselves in nature reserves. This charming city caters to families and culture enthusiasts alike, ensuring an engaging experience for all who visit.
- Avila Hot Springs: Experience the soothing warmth of Avila Hot Springs, an idyllic retreat perfect for relaxation and wellness. With its outdoor facilities, enjoy a serene atmosphere surrounded by nature, ideal for unwinding and rejuvenating your spirit.
- Cuesta College: Discover Cuesta College, a modern educational institution that embodies the vibrant city life of San Luis Obispo. Stroll through its contemporary campus and appreciate the blend of academic excellence and community spirit.
- Cerro San Luis Obispo: Embark on an adventure at Cerro San Luis Obispo, a stunning mountain offering breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Hike its trails to enjoy panoramic views of the region, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Best time to go to San Luis Obispo
The best time to visit San Luis Obispo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to San Luis Obispo
- Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
- Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to San Luis Obispo.
- Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
- Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a San Luis Obispo holiday package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your San Luis Obispo escape. However, factors like the hotel choice, length of stay and season will influence how much your holiday to San Luis Obispo costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to San Luis Obispo?
If you'd like to book a cheap San Luis Obispo holiday package, consider travelling in December, January and February. You'll typically find lower rates on hotels and flights during these months — perfect for a budget-friendly break.
How many days is enough for San Luis Obispo?
To get the most out of your San Luis Obispo holiday, we suggest staying for 2 days. Split your time between visiting History Centre of San Luis Obispo County, Bishop Peak Trail and other key sights, on top of experiencing neighbourhoods like Downtown San Luis Obispo and Old Town Historic District. If you've got some spare time, include a day trip or tour in your San Luis Obispo holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to San Luis Obispo?
It's no wonder a San Luis Obispo holiday is on the to-do list of many travellers. Leading attractions like Fremont Theatre are just the beginning of things to see and do here.
How to find the best San Luis Obispo package deals?
Bagging a cheap San Luis Obispo package deal is a breeze with Expedia. After you've entered your destination and preferred dates under our "Packages" tab, set your budget, apply a couple of filters and browse what's available. You can fine-tune your search by "Property class," "Number of bedrooms," "Traveller experience" and more. Sort the results by "Price: low to high" to discover the most affordable San Luis Obispo package deals. Want a simple trick to score even more savings? Have some flexibility with your departure dates and consider going away on a weekday, when prices are generally lower.
Is it cheaper to book a San Luis Obispo holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your San Luis Obispo getaway by booking a personalised holiday package. Click on the "Package" heading, then select your destination and travel dates to see the best hotel and flight prices. Bundle everything into a neat package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a car rental and you may land a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to San Luis Obispo?
If you've got your San Luis Obispo holiday dates finalized, book as soon as you can to score some unbeatable deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are perfect for jetting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to San Luis Obispo?
- Choose when to get away: Check your diary and pack your bags. Your preferred season and the available activities will also help you decide when to escape to San Luis Obispo.
- Work out your budget: Make sure you have enough money to cover everything from dining out and transportation to activities and airfares. Your accommodation will likely be the largest expense during your trip to San Luis Obispo.
- Decide your trip length: Consider how much time you want to spend discovering San Luis Obispo. Plan your days so you can get to all the attractions and experiences you're interested in at a comfortable pace.
- Bundle your flights and hotel: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left is to choose a San Luis Obispo holiday package that brings all your bookings together.