Downtown
Relaxing in the sun-filled, historic downtown areas of San Luis Obispo, California, is the perfect getaway for people who want to escape the bustle of city life. From the landmark Presidio Park to the beachfront downtown area, there are many activities tourists can enjoy. Downtown is best known for the landmark 17 72nd Mission San Luis Obispo, its museum, and its tranquil garden displaying native California artifacts. The former art deco town has a wide array of shops, cafes, boutiques, and live entertainment. Walking along the beachfront downtown area or taking a bike ride are also popular ways to experience downtown. Tourists can find numerous good restaurants in the downtown area as well as a variety of movie theatres.
With its many restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, downtown is ideal for grabbing a bite to eat during a break from the busy beaches. There are also many great places to shop, including designer boutiques, vintage clothing shops, retro stores, independent bookstores, and many galleries. A few blocks from downtown’s beachfront area is the Delano Park District, home to the Delano Park Zoo and Gardens. Tourists can enjoy nature walks, museums, and outdoor concerts at the park’s amphitheater.
In addition to the beachfront areas, there are many parks located nearby and playgrounds and outdoor arcades. For those interested in playing volleyball, the Beachside Park features an 18-hole golf course and pavilion. The park’s south side is also home to the Delano Park Children’s Park, where the city’s large summer music festivals are held. A few blocks from Beachfront Park is the South Beach Promenade, featuring shops, restaurants, outdoor concerts, and family activities.
Just a short walking distance from downtown San Luongo is Mission Boulevard Park. This open public park features picnic tables, playground equipment, wooded areas, parks, bike paths, nature statues, and beaches. It is also home to the San Luongo Historical Society and Museum. Other local businesses include Lula, a Mexican restaurant; Paseo Nuevo, which offers Mexican cuisine; and the San Luongo Shopping Center, which features a variety of local shops and businesses.
Another notable area of downtown San Loos is the beachfront, or “shoreside,” site. Here one can find a variety of shops, restaurants, boutique hotels, bars, cafes, and tourist attractions. One of the unique beachfront shops is Jack’s Place, which offers antiques, clothing, accessories, gifts, shoes, jewelry, and gift cards. Nearby is Treasure Island Water Park, which features over nine miles of beautiful beachfront property.
The downtown area is bustling and very much alive. Many of the shops, restaurants, boutique hotels and tourist attractions are within walking distance. It is also conveniently located just a short walk to the beaches and other attractions of San Loos. This area of San Diego truly deserves the nickname “Downtown Ogasmo CA.”