4 Days and 3 Nights in SLO
Make the Most of Your MidWeekend
Life in San Luis Obispo is so feel-good, easy-breezy that every day feels like Saturday. The fun doesn’t stop when the weekend ends: that’s why we call Sunday through Thursday the MidWeekend.
Fewer crowds. Lower hotel rates. Same beautiful days and endless things to do. Here’s your guide to the perfect MidWeekend trip: Four days and three nights of authentic SLO life.
Monday
Morning
- Welcome to San Luis Obispo! Head over to your hotel to check in and drop off your luggage. You might also want to make the Visitor Center your next stop–it has maps and other useful resources to help you get around our neighborhoods.
- Fuel up for your first day in SLO with a full spread…or just a simple cup of joe. Joliene Bakery is a must-stop location in the Creamery at 570 Higuera St. they feature fresh, artisanal baked goods such as bear paws, croissants, muffins, and more, or grab a quick bite at one of the three locations of family-owned Nautical Bean.
Mid-Day
- Go for an afternoon wander at one of our dozens of public parks, hiking spots and open spaces. Choose from trails in town or venture into the foothills around SLO for more challenging treks and sweeping views of the mountains.
- If you’re up for more walking, head to downtown SLO for a tour of our most iconic landmarks: Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, the SLO Museum of Art and Bubblegum Alley, where you can snap plenty of brag-worthy souvenir photos.
Evening
- We’re always putting on a show in San Luis Obispo! Grab tickets to new and classic films at Palm Theater, attend a concert or music at the Performing Arts Center.
SLO Life Tip
Life is better with four paws. San Luis Obispo is a dog-friendly city, so feel free to bring your furry friend along for a hike or even to restaurants that welcome pets. (Don’t forget the leash!)
Tuesday
Morning
- Beach tasting is a well-known local pastime. San Luis Obispo is close to dozens of beautiful beaches – Pismo, Avila, Morro Bay and more. Pack your swimsuit, your favorite book and some snacks and beverages, then drive out for a day of relaxation.
Mid-Day
- Near beaches and throughout San Luis Obispo, there are hundreds of miles of fantastic biking trails perfect for beginners and advanced riders alike. Rent a ride and put the pedal to the pavement (or the dirt) in some of our favorite biking spots.
- Today might be the busiest day of your trip. Fuel up with a handmade picnic lunch from SLO Provisions. Their family-style meals are just what you need to recharge and keep swimming, or hiking, or biking, or–well, you get the idea.
Evening
- After a lazy morning at the beach, keep the good vibes rolling with an evening stroll up Terrace Hill and relax with a picnic. Or stop by one of the many wine bars and enjoy all that Central Coast wine Country has to offer.
SLO Life Tip
SLO your stroll with a glass in hand. See where the magic happens at local vineyards by booking a private solo or group tour ahead of your visit.
Wednesday
Morning
- Before you head out, drop into a cozy San Luis Obispo bakery for fuel. Scout Coffee serves up pastries and coffee, while Madonna Inn’s Copper Cafe is the perfect place to snap a sweet souvenir selfie. (You’ll also find a delicious selection of baked goods and bread at Proof & Gather and Lincoln Market & Deli.)
Mid-Day
- Cal Poly SLO is our university and a bustling hub of arts, athletics and special events. You don’t have to be a student or an alum to stroll the beautiful campus and take in unique sculptures, buildings, walking paths and so much more. Be sure to check whether the Mustangs are playing–we hope you packed your team spirit!
Evening
- San Luis Obispo is a living piece of history, and so are the surrounding areas–especially Hearst Castle, home to newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. He was the inspiration for Orson Welles’ legendary film Citizen Kane and his old estate is full of luxurious antiques, amenities and even exotic animals.
SLO Life Tip
Every day is beach day. Even if the weather looks a little hazy, have no fear: by late morning, most fog clears up. If it doesn’t, you can still have a blast exploring nature preserves and trails along the shore.
Thursday
Morning
- Start your day with a sun salutation at one of our many yoga studios. Lots of them offer drop-in classes, while others take you to scenic locations (like the SLO Botanical Garden or the Madonna Inn. With goats, if you’re up for trying something totally new!)
- After yoga, continue your wellness streak with clean, green eats at Bliss Cafe or Sally Loo’s. Both of these local favorites offer a full range of healthy menu options, including bowls, smoothies, juices and other organic, nourishing meals.
Mid-Day
- Bring home a little piece of the Central Coast to share with friends and family. SLO is full of boutiques, galleries, vintage shops and specialty stores where you can browse goods (often handmade) from hardworking creators.
- On Thursdays the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market is in full swing, offering plenty of fresh eats, handmade goods and even live music. Take your time and stroll the stalls–you’ll really feel like a local as you chat with our resident makers, shakers and growers.
Evening
- Downtown SLO is full of casual and classy eateries. Grab an early dinner (or late lunch) at High Street Market & Deli or Old SLO BBQ Co. If you can get a reservation, we recommend SLO’s premier fine dining restaurants. Ox + Anchor and Nate’s on Marsh are our newest Michelin-rated spots, and you can’t go wrong with Buona Tavola’s cozy garden seating area.
SLO Life Tip
Late check-outs are encouraged. If you can sleep in, we recommend ending your MidWeekend with brunch at one of our favorite breakfast spots.
