Filming Locations in Paso Robles
Paso Robles filming locations sit under sun-kissed skies, thanks to a Mediterranean climate that means pleasant temperatures throughout the year. Directors also appreciate the striking beauty and diverse scenery of the Paso region. This stretch of the Central Coast features some of California’s best: Pacific sunsets. Rural lanes that travel vineyard-lined hills. Victorian homes. Historic missions. A small-town square with a stately brick hall. Buzzy restaurants and charming resorts. Here are a few of Paso’s most picture-perfect backdrops.
Downtown Paso Robles
Downtown Paso Robles branches out around Downtown City Park, a tree-lined square with an old-school gazebo. The Paso Robles History Museum occupies a former Carnegie library building here, and grand oak trees dot the plaza. A collection of wine tasting rooms, boutiques and restaurants line the streets surrounding the park.
Sensorio
Few places are more magical after dark than artist Bruce Munro’s Sensorio. It's one of California’s largest immersive art exhibitions, with paths winding through some 100,000 glowing bulbs and solar-powered installations that twinkle in subtle, spellbinding color. A terrace offers elevated views of the lights, while Airstream bars set a playful backdrop for romantic film scenes.
Lake Nacimiento
Tucked about 20 miles northwest of downtown Paso Robles, Lake Nacimiento is a sprawling outdoor playground that's a draw for fishing, camping, watersports and wildlife watching. Scenic biking and hiking trails showcase diverse shoreline habitats. Covering more than 5,000 surface acres, the lake also has pretty coves and tributaries that suit various visual presentations.
Wine Country
Paso Robles Wine Country encompasses an array of landscapes, from the rugged and mountainous to bucolic rural countryside stretching as far as one can see. Nine wine trails link the region's vineyards, and each trail has its own distinct vibe – along with quaint guesthouses, stylish resorts and event spaces with epic views.
Vineyard Drive
Several major wine brands make their home along Paso’s Vineyard Drive, including Thacher Winery, Brecon Estate, Clos Soléne, Paix Sur Terre and others. Pasolivo Olive Oil produces elite blends here, too. Well-established oak trees line this low-key rural route, where rustic farm buildings and rolling hills are a common sight.
Wildflowers
Visitors and shutterbugs plan their schedules around Paso's spectacular spring wildflower blooms. Winter rains generate green hills and blankets of richly colored flowers ranging from bold purple lupines and fiery Indian paintbrush to delicate pink evening primrose and vibrant California poppies. Depending on the year, wildflowers might be visible along Highway 1, near Route 46, or in more far-flung corners of the Paso Robles region.
Scout More Locations
From charming, small-town scenery to sprawling vineyards and European-inspired resorts, Paso Robles promises sites that bring diverse film visions to life. City film commission experts can recommend additional location ideas, including California missions, natural hot springs, equestrian trails, golf courses, modern shipping container tasting rooms and other surprises suited to various themes.
