Writen By Tee Burgess.
Looking for a vacation getaway with great wine, amazing, picturesque panoramic views, delicious food, gracious hosts and is only a few of hours away by car? Then look no further than the City of Paso Robles located in Central California in San Luis Obisipo County. This beautiful city is filled with rolling hills of vineyards, trees draped in Spanish moss and a quaint small town vibe that will allow you to escape mentally and physically to recharge your batteries. The scenery alone makes visitors just breathe deeper as they realize they just found their new happy place.
Road trips along the Central Californiaās coast are insanely beautiful with endless coastlines and breath taking views. I love discovering quiet towns surrounded by nature with something for everyone in my family. Paso Robles is a city with a āquaint town vibeā and amazing choices for shopping, eating, playing and drinking! Paso Roblesā relaxed atmosphere welcomes visitors whether you are staying overnight or for the weekend. Lodging options make it the perfect destination for friends, couples getaway or families.
Once famous for its medicinal hot mineral springs, Paso Robles has been a travel destination for hundreds of years. There are even rumors of haunted hotels from guests of yesteryear. With more than 300 wineries and many tasting rooms to choose from, guests in the present day are more likely wine lovers. The city is within a region recognized by the American Viticultural Area for its superb wine grape-growing abilities.
Here is a list of some of my favorite activities from my last visit to the area. I canāt wait to return and do it all over again!
1) Shopping: Explore the shops in the downtown area. Window shop, walk into any of many shops and strike up a conversation with a local. I found the shop staff friendly and helpful in providing tips on the best vineyards, restaurants and local picks for the area. The General Store is a must see. Find products made by local artists, including everything from clothes to knick-knacks to food. You’ll definitely find unique gifts or souvenirs to take home from here. Coffee drinkers rave about Spearhead coffee, the shopās very own locally-sourced, specialty roast.
Another must-shop is Brown Butter Cookies shop. Walk in and smell the deliciousness. Sample cookies before purchasing but I promise that you’ll want to take home their yummy shortbread cookies.
2) Olive tasting at We Olive: http://weolive.com/ Bring your discerning palate to this fun, interactive store that lets you dip, taste and compare an amazing arrays of flavored and blended oils and vinegars. I purchased the Pineapple White Balsamic Vinegar to top my salads. Open seven days a week, this shop has thought of everything. They even sell TSA-approved 2 oz bottles for those flying home and not wanting to check luggage. The staff is happy to answer any questions from routine cooking inquiries to how to seriously discern flavors similar to a wine tasting. Now I feel fuller and smarter! In addition to the oils and vinegars, the shop is stocked full of foodie accessories from utensils and storage containers to unique gourmet gifts for housewarming or holidays.
3) Farmer’s Market on Tuesdays: If you are in town on a Tuesday, donāt miss this. Sample the goods, buy unbelievably fresh groceries or bring your camera to capture colorful photos to remember this little slice of foodie heaven. Visit the farmers and ask questions about their tasty crops. We snacked on sweet grapes and Fuyu persimmons. Did you know here are two types of persimmons, make sure to grab the smaller, flat, smooth persimmon — you can eat the peel! I was impressed with the endless array of jams, citrus, olives, vegetables and more from farms located right in the Central Valley.
4) Studio in the Park: This nonprofit open studios art center can be found in the heart of downtown. Stop by to see their studios and artists. Artists range from acrylic, oil, and watercolor paintings, jewelry, collage, printmaking, and more. They welcome the public to observe their artists at work. Increase your appreciation for the process and finish product by watching them create and interacting with the artists.
There are galleries and a fine craft and art gift shop. I attended a group painting class with resident artist Anne Laddon. She was lovely! I enjoyed her critiques and painting methods. Tours are available to the public with individual or small group options with friendly and knowledgeable docents.
5) Go on an Urban Adventure Quest: Head out on your own version of the Amazing Race through this unique adventure tour. It’s not a free event. Wear your walking shoes as you head out on a free scavenger hunt beginning at City Park and through the historic buildings, outdoor artwork, landmarks and famous hotels of Paso Robles. There are 14 challenges and 3 bonus adventures, so come ready to explore like never before!
6) Take a self-guided walking tour: Stop by Main Street Association on 12th Street to grab a walking tour guide. Suggested completion time is about 90 minutes. The tour begins in the southwest corner of San Jacinto Plaza, at the 1910 E. Howard post clock. This tour focuses primarily on the historic charm of the City with many of the buildings constructed prior to 1910.
7) Find a seasonal special event: This winter, schedule your visit to coincide with the annual Christmas event with a downtown Light Parade to a special green, Seuss character appearance! Throughout the year, the downtown celebrates the seasons with Valentine Movie Nights, Concerts in the Park, Pioneer Day Parades and Halloween trick or treating. Paso Robles also plays host to the California Mid-State Fair, a popular attraction and tradition that brings together fair-goers from across the state.
For more info on this amazing city visit www.travelpaso.com.
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