With rising crime, clogged highways and exorbitant prices, some cities in the Golden State seem to be losing their luster.
But in San Luis Obispo, the California dream still lives on.
It is therefore no surprise that CNN has named this city one of the best American cities to visit.
This idyllic place is known for its vineyards, cozy city center and breathtaking nature.
A drive-in movie theater and family restaurants help maintain the 20th century atmosphere.
San Luis Obispo has been named one of the best cities in the US to visit
The relaxed pace of life has led to the nickname SLO, because the locals lead a quieter life than in other big cities.
However, the vibrant art scene and various new developments in SLO also give the city a contemporary touch.
The city centre is usually teeming with locals visiting the independent cafes, boutiques and art galleries.
Throughout the city you will find special places, such as Bubblegum Alley, a 21-metre-long walled street full of pieces of chewed gum.
Meanwhile, the weekly farmers market, where more than 100 vendors sell their wares, always draws a crowd.
But it is not only the residents who benefit from this charming town.
“Here you can enjoy everything from wine routes to hiking trails, without a trace of humanity in sight,” the CNN guide said.
The relaxed pace of life has led to the nickname SLO, as locals enjoy a more leisurely lifestyle than those in other major cities.
SLO is known for its wineries, picturesque city center and breathtaking natural beauty
‘The breathtaking natural surroundings, with the Pacific Ocean nearby, are the icing on the cake.’
SLO was founded by the Spanish in 1772 as a mission town. The colonists also began working with the area’s rich wine-growing population.
In the 19th century, the city was home to Chinese workers who built roads and railways.
Only a few buildings remain of historic Chinatown, including the Ah Louis Sotre, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.
The store was opened by Chinese-American Ah Louis and was his family’s home. Its Victorian Italianate architecture makes it a striking landmark in the city.
Just a stone’s throw away is another piece of history in the form of the Milestone Mo-Tel, reportedly the very first motel.
SLO was founded by the Spanish in 1772 as a mission town. The colonists began with the area’s rich wine-growing population
A weekly farmers market offers goods from more than 100 vendors
The owners chose SLO for its location, as it is halfway between LA and San Francisco.
You can learn all this and more at the History Center of San Luis Obispo. Culture vultures can also check out SLOMA, the city’s contemporary art gallery.
Today, SLO has 48,000 inhabitants, after an influx of people during the pandemic.
Many people are attracted to the atmosphere of a small town, yet it offers all the advantages of a big city.
SLO is close to other urban centers such as Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, Arroyo Grande, and Paso Robles.
It is also home to California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), where students create an added sense of community.
The town’s proximity to beautiful hiking trails makes it a big hit with tourists looking for outdoor relaxation
The city centre is usually packed with locals visiting the independent cafes, boutiques and art galleries
The city beat out cities like New York and Washington DC to rank among the top ten best tourist destinations in the US.
Coming in at number one was Richmond, Virginia, ahead of SLO, followed by Providence, Rhode Island, Tacoma, Washington, and Portland, Maine.
The jury looked for cities that offer character and a range of attractions, but where people are not too crowded.