Welcome to Paso Robles — the ideal destination that fits every traveler's profile; from the romantic couple’s escape, to family adventures, to the wine trail girls getaway, and more. Paso has it all. Here, a laid-back, country lifestyle meets the sunny Golden Coast in perfect harmony. A friendly community of cowboys, surfer girls, and winemakers are just waiting to show you the very best Paso Robles has to offer. Despite being celebrated for its luxurious wine country, Paso excels at much more than top-tier grapes. Try farm-fresh markets, boutique shopping, healing hot springs, as well as countless pet-friendly and family-friendly adventures. What’s more is there is no best time to visit; come summer, winter, fall, or spring to explore what each new season brings. We’ll provide the travel guide to Paso, so that all you have to do is show up and enjoy your stay in this fantastic historic town. Despite being one of California’s hottest new travel destinations, Paso Robles has deep roots and a rich history. The area earned its reputation as a place of rest and rejuvenation back in the 1700s when native Salinan Indians began to claim health benefits from the region’s abundant thermal waters. From there the area became referred to by many as “The Springs.” Word of these healing hot springs quickly spread to Spain's Franciscan padres who in exchange, planted the region's first vineyards and shared their knowledge of cattle ranching, farming and winemaking. Over time, more and more began to immigrate to the area and Paso began to grow into the charming town we know and love. Today, this heritage continues to be integrated throughout life in Paso, evident in our world-class wine country, our local hot springs that remain to this day, and cultural celebrations like Pioneer Day.

Paso Robles is a winemaking oasis. With 40,000 acres of vineyards spanning from the Santa Lucia Mountain Range all the way to the Salinas River Valley, the extensive diversity of micro-climates throughout the area leads to a unique and diverse tasting profile. There are 60 different varietals grown throughout the region, including the iconic Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Syrah. Wines from Paso are known for being bold and fruit driven.

While many Old World wine regions are required to follow strict laws and guidelines, in the New World, and Paso Robles, we are blessed with unrestrained creativity. Therefore, you will find many unconventional blends coming from the region. You can try some iconic blends at JUSTIN Vineyards, Adelaida Vineyards, Cass Winery and DAOU Vineyards.

With 11 distinct sub-AVA’s, each viticultural area has unique growing and stylistic differences, leading to many different wine profiles and with over 200 wineries in Paso Robles, there’s plenty to choose from. Paso Robles brings the best of Old World heritage to New World innovation. 

Just 20 minutes from the heart of downtown Paso Robles is Lake Nacimiento. Due to its unique dragon-like shape, it has endless private coves and narrow waterways that are perfect for your next boating adventure. Lake Nacimiento Boat Rentals offers a wide selection for the perfect day on the water. Surrounded by 165 miles of shoreline, this lake is perfect for your morning hike through oak and pine forests. If a speed boat isn’t for you, you can also enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking, or fishing for white bass. 

About 35 miles Northwest of Paso Robles is Lake San Antonio. With great weather year-round, this lake is perfect for a variety of activities. If you are looking for an overnight adventure, Lake San Antonio has over 500 campsites and is one of the only lakes in California that you are able to camp along the shore. In addition, you can see an abundance of wild animals along the lake's hiking trails from red-tailed hawks, deer, skunks, squirrels, and badgers. If you are looking to cast a line, you may catch striped bass or even catfish.

With over 200 wineries, Paso Robles has perfected the art of tasting experiences. Our Downtown square and neighboring Tin City both feature about 30 urban tasting rooms for a modern tasting experience with the convenience of being in town. The remaining wineries are sprinkled throughout the oak studded, rolling hills that surround Paso Robles. Many tasting rooms are nestled in the vineyards and offer tours, light bites and views into the cellar or caves. 

For the best all-around experience, get a customized door-to-door concierge experience from one of the many wine tour operators in the area. This always you to relax and take in the panoramic views while also keeping safety in mind. Whether you have a small or large party there is an option to fit your needs! These wine tours will show you the Paso favorites while giving you a personalized experience.

Take a stroll through the heart of downtown, centered around Downtown City Park. Here you will find a gazebo, children’s play structure and extensive lawn that is perfect for a picnic. You can regularly find families in this tight-knit, local community setting up their lawn chairs and picnic blankets to listen to the music in the park.

Meander through the Farmer's Market on Tuesday mornings where you can find local growers sharing seasonal harvests such as lavender, vegetables, fruit, olive oil and honey. All around the square, you will find top rated restaurants, boutique stores, tasting rooms and art studios.

When you come to Paso, come hungry. Paso is known not only for its incredible wine country, but its impressive list of restaurants to pair with it. Get a taste for real local flavor at the very best restaurants in Paso Robles. Treat yourself to farm-fresh ingredients and innovative dishes, cocktails and craft beers. Paso’s impressive collection of diverse restaurants allows you to indulge from breakfast to dinner, and everything in between. Love to wine and dine? Enjoy unbeatable, multi-course pairings and gourmet seasonal flavors when you make reservations at The Restaurant at JUSTIN. Exploring locally grown? Taste test award-winning farm to table options downtown at Thomas Hill Organics. Planning your favorite meal of the day with your best girls? Paso Robles Brunch can’t be beat! Brunch (and signature customizable mimosa flights) are served all day at Brunch Paso. Whether you’re a food and wine connoisseur, or the pickiest of eaters, this restaurant scene does not disappoint. No matter what your taste, we know you’ll love the taste of Paso. 

There are never ending list of Paso Robles activities. With lakes, concert venues, breweries, horseback riding, hot springs, water park and art exhibits, you will never have a dull moment during your visit to Paso. Thanks to the amazing weather and local talent, you can always find something to do no matter the season. 

During your stay, make sure to book horseback riding through the vineyards with Central Coast Trailrides or enjoy aerial views of Paso by taking a once in a lifetime ride in a hot air balloon. Check out the local concert lineup at the outdoor Vina Robles Amphitheater to hear great artists perform, paired with great wine! While we may be known for our wine country, there is so much to do besides visiting wineries.

Take your swing on the green! With four golf courses to choose from in Paso, including the recently renovated Paso Robles Golf Club, you can play at one or all four during your visit. Surrounded by vineyards and greenery, the courses provide options for all skill levels with three 18-hole courses and one 6-hole course for developing your skills on the green. Come soak in the beautiful California sun with this iconic sport.

Come one, come all to enjoy the very best of Paso’s local festivals and fairs! The Paso Robles area is home to a selection of popular events including the California Mid-State Fair, Paso Robles Wine Festival, Paderewski Festival, and Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival. Within this diverse collection of unique events, there is certainly fun to be had for every type of traveler whether you’re looking for live music, family-friendly entertainment, cultural celebrations, or gastronomic delights. Experience everything from big name musical artists to high-quality local wines, all with a charming touch of Paso’s rich heritage. 

The California Mid-State Fair, previously known as the San Luis Obispo County Fair, opened in 1946 and has rapidly grown in size and popularity ever since. The fair is held annually, with twelve action packed days at the end of July. Festivities consist of family-friendly concerts, art exhibits, and agricultural events on top of classic fair entertainment. Start your day at the farmer's market, followed by fair food and shopping, and ending the night with a performance from famous artists like Blake Shelton and Jason Derulo. This event is the perfect event for family, couples, or anyone looking to release their inner kid. 

The Paso Wine Fest invites wine lovers of all kinds to celebrate Paso rich heritage, rural beauty, and world-class wines. This Paso wine event is held annually each May and boasts four days of wine tastings, winemaker dinners, exclusive excursions, live music, and more. See where wine takes you as you explore Paso Robles Wine Country and local wineries at this tasteful, adult event. 

For the music festival connoisseurs, Paso has you covered as well. Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival, held in September and the Paderewski Festival, held in November are eagerly awaited by fans every year. Whale Rock, formerly “Beaverstock” was founded by a family of Paso Robles winemaking pioneers committed to supporting the arts and their local community. This commitment soon evolved into their very own winery, Castoro Cellars. 30 years later, the family threw a massive anniversary party to celebrate their supporters. The event was such a success that an annual music festival was born. The event continues each fall, connecting the community with music, art, and yoga. Those with more classical taste will love the Paderewski Festival, a premier four-day music festival honoring famous resident Ignacy Jan Paderewski. Padreweski himself was an accomplished pianist and composer who frequently performed in the area. Today, the festival features world renowned talent, exhibits, lectures, master classes, and film screenings, all accompanied by local wine tastings and tours. The event also highlights a youth piano competition, recital and student cultural exchange with Poland to celebrate Paderewski's legacy.

Beat the heat with an action packed pool day the whole family will love! If you are exploring Paso Robles with kids, Ravine Waterpark is a must for your vacation itinerary. This ultimate family-friendly destination makes enjoying yourself while entertaining the kids easy. With six massive slides, the Calypso Bay Wavepool, the Kickback Kreek Lazy River, and a Kiddie Pool, your “tadpoles” are set up for hours of fun in the sun.

For the parents, deluxe Cabana rentals promote rest and relaxation with lounge chairs, shade, and complimentary Cabana service. Multiple options to choose from allow you to pick the size and location that best suits your party’s needs. Not only will you have set up camp for the day, but you can enjoy premium beer and wine or a quick nap by the pool, knowing the kids are safe and entertained. The onsite Tiki Bar and Grill is serving up burgers, fries and plenty of ice cream, making it the perfect place to fuel up and refresh mid-day without missing out on any of the excitement!

Shop til you drop in Paso Robles with everything from local artisan shops and upscale clothing boutiques, to gourmet food and wine markets. Conveniently located right off Highway 101, the shops in Paso have something for every shopper whether you are looking for gifts, women’s and men’s clothing, jewelry, art, and more. Spend the day exploring a unique collection of Paso Robles stores. Here in this charming family-friendly environment you can discover one-of-a-kind finds at antique malls or experience taste testing locally made gourmet foods from a friendly homegrown business.

We recommend starting your day in the heart of downtown by City Park where you’ll find ample free parking, public restrooms, and diverse shopping options. This easily accessible area allows you to comfortably stroll through town taking in the sights and sounds of historic Paso Robles. Stop to refuel at one of the favorite local restaurants or cool off with an ice cold craft brew. Spend the day in this quaint downtown setting and quickly find out why Paso Robles is one of the ultimate shopping destinations along the Central Coast.