For those who plan in favor of the journey over the specific stops along the way and those who do things for the plot or the story, this one’s for you! Sometimes getting sidetracked, and maybe even a little lost, makes for the best experiences in SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County)—the unexpected is waiting.

Keeping the itinerary loose, with room to follow where SLO CAL leads you, allows flexibility for those things that can’t be planned. This itinerary is perfect for a friends getaway or for a group with varied interests. Use this itinerary as a guide while you follow the ups, downs and turns through San Luis Obispo County.

Stumble Upon a Farm Stand

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Four people at a farm stand looking at punnets and trying berries

📍2450 Huasna Road, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Bautista Family Farm has been growing local produce since 1988. Find their products year-round at local restaurants, farmers markets and of course, their on-site farm stand!

The off-the-beaten path backroads give way to beautiful photo opportunities, as well as lesser known SLO CAL treasures including numerous farm stands. This region is rich in agriculture due to the ideal climate, varied topography and soil content. Enjoy some of the sweetest strawberries or learn about how luffa sponges are grown—all on the farm.

 

8 miles, 13 minute drive

 

Discover Lopez Lake

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Three people in a pontoon boat watching one person swim alongside the boat in a lake

📍6820 Lopez Drive, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

22 miles of shoreline, this interior lake is full of activity choices: hiking, picnicking, birding, fishing, adventure park, water park and of course boating! Rent a boat (or launch your own) from the Lopez Lake Marina. The best part is that the lake’s temperature is consistently warmer than the ocean (especially in the summer) and perfect for swimming.

 

34 miles, 47 minute drive

On the drive, allow yourself to get sidetracked in Edna Valley, where you’ll find delicious bites and beautiful, approachable wine tasting rooms.

Mountain Bike in Atascadero

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📍Hospital Drive, Atascadero, CA 93422

Stadium Park is a hiking and mountain biking park that has over four miles of trails to explore in downtown Atascadero. Climb to the top of Pine Mountain for 360-degree views and keep an eye out along the path as Atascadero Historic City Hall comes in and out of view between the oak trees.

 

.5 miles, 2 minute drive

Laidback Listening Lounge

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Women at bar looking at records in the background with other people in foreground with drinks

📍5840 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA 93422

Decades HiFi Lounge creates the perfect atmosphere to enjoy music and discover something new while serving local beer and wines. Experience top-of-the-line sound system equipment and a vinyl collection that will guide you through musical decades. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to find your groove!

 

8 miles, 10 minute drive

Dance to Live Music

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📍3055 Limestone Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446

After a taste in the listening lounge, dance to live tunes and enjoy the beer at the BarrelHouse Brewing Amphitheater. Located in Tin City, this outdoor beer garden during the day and concert venue at night, is a great way to catch live entertainment. You can also wander into tasting rooms, restaurants (including a Michelin starred spot), shops and more!

 

12 miles, 19 minute drive

Dazzle at a Light Show

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Group of four people at a table overlooking colorful lights in the distant hills

📍4380 Highway 46, Paso Robles, CA 93446

From twinkling lights overhead to large-scale artist light displays, the party continues at Sensorio where you’ll find more live music, libations and food options. These unique art instillations offer a multi-sensory journey through the hills of Paso Robles at dusk and beyond. Hard to explain but impossible to forget—you won’t regret a stop at this top attraction.

Looking to make this experience extra memorable? Book a VIP terrace experience where your group can enjoy fireside reserved tables to recap the day and all of the great twists and turns of unexpected adventures in SLO CAL.

When getting sidetracked is the plan, no addition or deviation is a mistake—it’s all part of the experience. Whether the best moments were on your itinerary or not, come see why you wouldn’t change a thing. Spending time in SLO CAL makes it clear that every trip, every time, you get what you expect plus more! Start planning your flexible itinerary today.