Seduced by the Central Coast: San Luis Obispo

Oprah owns a restaurant here; film stars are often spotted in the scenic downtown, and students at the local university often can’t bear to leave when they graduate. San Luis Obispo is known as one of the most scenic stars of California’s picturesque Central Coast.

Walk downtown and browse the charming shops, relax in one of the many elegant restaurants, or enjoy the historic ambiance of the Mission and rambling creekside walks. One of the leading state universities in the nation, California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo, is worth a visit as well, and the Cal Poly annual open house features displays of everything from agriculture to architecture.

Stay at the famous pink Madonna Inn, which houses rooms decorated in themes such as early Caveman and Safari. On a budget? Visit the bathroom (complete with cascading waterfalls) and then sample one of the incredibly delicious pastries from the bakery or treat your children to a whipped-cream-topped chocolate soda.

Within a short drive from downtown San Luis Obispo are the ocean, mountains, and wineries. Taste the best of the local crops at the weekly downtown Thursday night Farmers’ Market, which includes music and other festivities. Don’t miss the award-winning BBQ.