If you are a craft beer lover (like me) and you are considering vacation options or even that last minute road trip, then you don’t want to miss putting SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County) on the bucket list. Around every corner in the region, you’ll find the outstanding breweries and bars where you can sample a flight, enjoy a pint and partake in the beer fun. And nothing is more fun for a craft beer lover than a beer festival.
Tasting the Central Coast of California in One Day
No need for a beer tour stopping in every city along the Central Coast when you can taste beers from over 40 breweries from the Central Coast Brewers Guild in one day, in one location at the Central Coast Craft Beer Festival. There is nothing like tasting a new favorite beer while strolling through the beautiful Sunken Gardens at Atascadero’s annual event while listening to live music, checking out vendors and food trucks and even playing giant beer pong! With general admission beginning at on 1pm, I always opt in for the VIP tickets giving you early access the beer festival with special craft beer pours that are only available during the first hour. So, grab your pretzel necklace (you know who you are) and get ready for a good time with great beer!
Local Variety
Having made it through the craft beer festival, you’ll probably want to explore more of the local scene, In Atascadero try out Colony Mash Brewing Co., where you can sample a wide variety of styles from their taps. From Black Lagers and West Coast IPA to Kettle Sours and Orange Creamsicles, these brewers have a beer or seltzer for every palate.
From small indie to a local giant, no stop is complete without a trip to Firestone Walker Brewing Company in Paso Robles. Where the bear meets the lion is the place to see a full-scale brewery in operation on a brewery tour or barrelhouse tour. Then visit the taproom to hand select a flight of staples featuring the iconic 805 or the barrel aged beers, like the Velvet Merkin – a double barrel aged oatmeal stout with hints of espresso, chocolate vanilla and bourbon– yum.
For a Beer Good Time
Didn’t get your fill of fun yet? Visit the Central Coast Brewing Company located in the HUB in San Luis Obispo. A playground for adults with a large outdoor space, a back room for games of all sorts and the perfect spot to sip my go-to beer, Lucky Day IPA, a World Beer Cup winner with Mosaic, Simcoe and Centennial hops – a bit piney a bit citrusy. And for those who want something extra special, Krobar Distillery shares the space, so once you are done trying out the beer – hop next door for locally crafted spirits, including their bourbon whiskey that’s smooth and oaky with notes of buttery popcorn and caramel.
Another good choice for fun that’s family friendly is Wild Fields Brewhouse, where everyone of all ages is welcome to come and enjoy games including roller ball – think miniaturized bowling. But it’s not all games when their taps include several World Beer Cup winners like the crisp light brown ale, Pine Mountain Monolith with notes of baked bread and toasted nuts. That’s serious business.
Drink (and play) Like a Local
When you take your fun as seriously as your beer, SLO CAL won’t let you down. Lots of local breweries, bars and even wineries love a good game and have regular fun beer events. Weekly trivia nights can be found at Ancient Owl Beer Garden in San Luis Obispo and Humdinger in Arroyo Grande. And if ax throwing is your thing, you can grab a pint and throw at the Chop Shop in Atascadero or book your group at Cass Winery in Paso Robles (they have archery too!). San Luis Obispo is even home to BA Start, a competitive arcade and taproom where you can play video games and pinball while enjoying a beer on tap.
Cheers
Whether you’re raising a glass or a pint, SLO CAL’s breweries offer a flavor profile for everyone. And if you’re like me, it’s not just about the beer—it’s about the friends you make along the way while tasting new brews. Check out the SLO CAL Brewery Trail for more breweries in San Luis Obispo County where you’ll find the locals friendly, the vibe relaxed and your new favorite beer on tap.
