Tips for Experiencing San Luis Obispo’s Local Culture

San Luis Obispo was founded along the central coast of California. Native Americans considered the location home for thousands of years before Europeans arrived during the 18th century. Over the years, the community continued evolving and today boasts a number of exceptional galleries, museums, and theatres as well as a renowned university. Start a cultural journey of the city by indulging in a trolley ride around the historic area to familiarize yourself with these recommended attractions.

History Center of San Luis Obispo County

This facility sits along the Mission Plaza and provides guests with the chance to explore local history via a series of rotating exhibits. Multimedia displays and artifacts explain when and how the community was founded. Other displays discuss important historic periods and the native people involved in the city’s evolution. Learn about daily life through the ages.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

Father Serra established this mission in 1772 in what’s now known as the heart of the downtown region. Guests are welcome to tour the buildings to view the artifacts and artwork while learning the history and importance of the church. Exploring the property enables visitors to enjoy the expansive garden that features a well and trellises.

Dallidet Adobe & Gardens

This residence on Pacific Street offers free tours of the living museum that was constructed in the early 1800s by Frenchman and pioneer Pierre Hypolite Dallidet. Walking through the home provides guests with a glimpse of the era via the décor and furnishings while learning about Mr. Dallidet. The exquisite gardens span an entire acre filled with trees, greenery, and flowers along paved pathways. After spending a day enjoying this fascinating treasure, you’ll be ready to return to your boutique hotel near San Luis Obispo for some rest and relaxation by the pool or spa.

San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

This museum fascinates guests of all ages with artifacts, exhibits, and displays that explain the history of railroad development in the area. The exhibits also discuss various local and national rail companies, and there’s a massive 1,200-square-foot working Central Coast Model Railroad. The display demonstrates how the railroads impacted local communities by providing transportation and freight delivery.

The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art

This facility displays contemporary works by local artists. The collection includes a series of permanent works along with visiting exhibits. Stroll along the corridors to take in the paintings, sculptures, and other creations that depict everything from area landscapes to past and present residents.

Wine History Project of SLO County

Here you’ll get a look at the wine-making industry in the county, which dates back 200 years. Equipment from the mid-1800s is on display to explain early viticulture processes. Other exhibits include multimedia displays. The museum also offers periodic lectures as well as food and wine tasting events. 

San Luis Obispo has so many interesting cultural attractions you won’t be able to enjoy everything on your must-see list in just a day or two, so reserve a room for several days at Sands Inn & Suites, a premier San Luis Obispo hotel. Bring the whole family to our pet-friendly inn and enjoy our on-site gym, heated outdoor pool and spa, and free WiFi. Our staff is dedicated to making your stay a memorable one, so call us to reserve your room today at (800) 441-4657.