With rising crime rates, congested roads and skyrocketing prices, it may seem like some cities in the Golden State are losing their luster.
But in San Luis Obispo, the California dream is alive and well.
So perhaps it’s no surprise that CNN has now named it one of the best cities in the United States to visit.
This idyllic location is known for its wineries, picturesque town centre and stunning natural beauty.
A drive-in cinema and family-run restaurants ensure the place retains a distinctly 20th-century atmosphere.
San Luis Obispo has been named among the best cities in the US to visit
The relaxed pace of life has given rise to the nickname SLO, and locals enjoy a quieter lifestyle than in other major cities.
However, SLO’s vibrant art scene and several new developments also give it a contemporary feel.
The city centre is often packed with locals visiting the independent cafes, boutique shops and art galleries.
Throughout the city you can find quirky features such as Bubblegum Alley, a 70-foot-long walled stretch lined with chewed gum.
Meanwhile, a weekly farmers market featuring produce from more than 100 vendors never fails to draw a crowd.
But it’s not just the residents who benefit from this charming town.
“Here you can enjoy everything from wine tours to hiking trails, without being surrounded by people,” says the CNN guide.
The relaxed pace of life has given rise to the nickname SLO, and locals enjoy a quieter lifestyle than in other major cities.
SLO is famous for its wineries, quaint downtown and stunning natural beauty.
‘The stunning natural surroundings, with the Pacific so close, are the icing on the cake.’
The Spanish founded SLO in 1772 as a missionary town. The settlers also gave rise to the area’s rich wine-growing population.
In the 19th century, the city became home to a population of Chinese workers who built roads and railways.
Only a few buildings remain in historic Chinatown, including the Ah Louis Sotre, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.
The store was opened by Chinese-American Ah Louis and was his family home. Its Victorian Italianate style construction 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, purportedly the first motel in history.
SLO was founded in 1772 by the Spanish as a missionary town. The settlers initiated the area’s rich wine-growing population.
A weekly farmers market features produce from more than 100 vendors.
The owners chose SLO for its location, as it is halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
All this and much more can be learned at the San Luis Obispo History Center. Culture lovers can also visit SLOMA, the city’s modern art gallery.
SLO currently has a population of 48,000, following an influx of people during the pandemic.
Many are drawn to the small town feel that offers all the benefits of a big city.
SLO is located near 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), whose students help create another sense of community.
The city’s proximity to stunning hiking trails makes it a big hit with tourists looking to escape to the outdoors.
The city centre is often packed with locals visiting the independent cafes, boutique shops and art galleries.
The city surpassed cities like New York and Washington DC and ranked among the top ten tourist destinations in the United States.
Ahead of SLO at number one was Richmond, Virginia, followed by Providence, Rhode Island, Tacoma, Washington, and Portland, Maine.
The judges looked for cities that offered personality and a wealth of attractions without the crush of crowds.