6 Best Sights in San Luis Obispo, The Central Coast

Background Illustration for Sights

We've compiled the best of the best in San Luis Obispo - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Biddle Ranch Vineyard

Glass doors and walls in a converted dairy barn fill the Biddle Ranch Vineyard tasting room with light and sweeping valley, mountain, and vineyard views. The small-production winery focuses on estate Chardonnay (the adjacent 17-acre vineyard is planted exclusively to the grape), plus Pinot Noir and various red blends.
2050 Biddle Ranch Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, USA
805-543–2399
Sight Details
Tastings $30 (reservations recommended)
Closed Tues. and Wed.

Something incorrect in this review?

History Center of San Luis Obispo County

Across the street from the old Spanish mission, the center presents exhibits that explore topics such as Native American life in the county, the California ranchos, and the impact of railroads. On the center's website are links to free downloadable video-podcast walking tours of historic San Luis Obispo.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

Sun-dappled Mission Plaza fronts the fifth mission established in 1772 by Franciscan friars. A small museum exhibits artifacts of the Chumash Indians and early Spanish settlers. Guided tours are offered Wednesday–Sunday at 1:15 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. 

Recommended Fodor's Video

San Luis Obispo Children's Museum

Activities at this facility geared to children under age 10 include an "imagination-powered" elevator that transports visitors to a series of underground caverns. Kids can pick rubber fruit at a farmers' market and race in a fire engine to fight a fire.

1010 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, USA
805-544–5437
Sight Details
$10
Closed Tues. and Wed.

Something incorrect in this review?

San Luis Obispo Museum of Art

The permanent collection here focuses on the artistic legacy of the Central Coast. Temporary exhibits include traditional and cutting-edge arts and crafts by Central Coast, national, and international artists.

1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, USA
805-543–8562
Sight Details
Closed Tues. and Wed.

Something incorrect in this review?

Talley Vineyards

Acres of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, plus smaller parcels of Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and other varietals blanket Talley's mountain-ringed dell in the Arroyo Grande Valley. Enjoy stunning estate views in the sleek interior and on the adjacent patio. Standout wines include the single-vineyard Rosemary's Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

3031 Lopez Dr., Arroyo Grande, CA, 93420, USA
805-489–0446
Sight Details
Tastings from $30

Something incorrect in this review?

Not finding what you're looking for?

We've got a few suggestions for nearby spots.
Avila Beach

Avila Valley Barn7.3 miles away

560 Avila Beach Dr., San Luis Obispo, California, 93405, USA
We recommend 4 Sights in Avila Beach
Avila Beach

Central Coast Aquarium8.3 miles away

50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, California, 93424, USA
We recommend 4 Sights in Avila Beach
Avila Beach

Avila City Beach8.3 miles away

Avila Beach Dr., Avila Beach, California, 93424, USA
We recommend 4 Sights in Avila Beach
Avila Beach

Point San Luis Lighthouse9.4 miles away

Port San Luis, California, USA
We recommend 4 Sights in Avila Beach
Morro Bay

Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History11.3 miles away

20 State Park Rd., Morro Bay, California, 93442, USA
We recommend 5 Sights in Morro Bay