Showing Tag: " san luis obispo" (Show all posts)

One Week of Spring Break - California Mom Journal

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, In : For Kids

My kids get a week off from school for Spring Break. It's a total of 9 days of no school if we count the weekend before it starts as well. This year, I've logged what we did each day during this break! We stayed local for the first part of the break and then went to Los Angeles for the last 2 days. Jump to our Universal Studios Hollywood Trip on Day 7. I'm putting Day 1 as the Monday that break officially started, calendar-wise. Here's the day-by-day breakdown of what we did for Spring Break ...
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Blue Seafood & Grill Arroyo Grande Lunch Date Review

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Friday, March 31, 2023, In : Restaurants

Blue Seafood & Grill opened in Arroyo Grande recently in 2023 and my husband and I decided to have a lunch date there. It's nice to have another seafood restaurant in AG! They replaced the previous restaurant named Me & Z, which I regretfully did not get to try before they closed down.
Blue Seafood & Grill Arroyo Grande Review

Blue Seafood & Grill Arroyo Grande Review

We parked in the back of the building where they have their own parking lot. Beware, it's a one way in, one way out situation so if you have a really big vehicle, just be mindful of that. However, it's nice to n...
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Mistura Review | Downtown San Luis Obispo Restaurant

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Sunday, February 19, 2023, In : Restaurants

Mistura does everything right! Located in Downtown San Luis Obispo, Mistura's ambiance is sleek, the service is sharp and the food and drinks are stand outs!

For a belated Valentine's Day celebration, my husband and I made a reservation online for Mistura for a Saturday.

We arrived about 15 minutes before our reservation after finding a metered parking spot. Luckily, we had coins because the meter we parked right by didn't not use the parking app that the other spots use in San Luis Obispo....

Date Night in Downtown SLO and Where We Went

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Sunday, December 11, 2022, In : Romantic

My husband surprised me with an anniversary SLO staycation in Downtown San Luis Obispo!
Granada Bistro Date Night
He had presented me the reservation date and details on our actual anniversary day in an envelope as a gift but I had to wait a few weeks to experience it, when my mother-in-law was able to come to visit and watch our precious kids for us! It was a gift with big anticipation and he executed it well! Our staycation was extra unique as it was on a Monday night in December. It had rained earlier in the day bu...

Thanksgiving Dinners in San Luis Obispo | SLO County

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, In : Holidays

While I was in college at San Diego State University (SDSU), I worked at a seafood buffet and worked on Thanksgiving Day. [You can skip my story and just scroll down or jump straight to the list of 23 restaurants in San Luis Obispo County that will be open on Thanksgiving Day and serving a turkey dinner.] It was by choice as I got better tips and only had to work for 5 hours and could still go home and spend time with my parents and brother. I'm a native San Diegan but live here in San Luis O...
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Top 10 San Luis Obispo County Wineries and Reviews | Local Reviews

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Saturday, October 8, 2022, In : Wineries

I'm a local in San Luis Obispo County and this is a list of my top favorite 10 wine tasting rooms that I've visited in San Luis Obispo County (SLO) County, including Edna Valley and Paso Robles. The order and list may change as I continue to explore more wineries. So far, I've explored over 40 tasting rooms in San Luis Obispo County.

Tolosa Winery

Tolosa Winery is the very first winery we visited in San Luis Obispo County because of the high reviews. We were wowed by it from the very begi...

A Date Night in Pismo Beach and Where We Went

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Monday, September 19, 2022, In : Romantic

I had a very memorable date night with my husband earlier this month in Pismo Beach. We went to three different places on Price St, which is 2 blocks parallel from the Pismo Beach Pier. [ If you're looking for a date night suggestion for Downtown San Luis Obispo, read about our Date Night in Downtown SLO. ]

First Date Stop in Pismo Beach: Tastes of the Valleys Review

There is a quaint wine bar in Pismo Beach on Price St. named Tastes of the Valleys. It stays open until 7PM on Saturdays so w...

Pono Pacific Kitchen Review - West End Grover Beach

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Friday, September 2, 2022, In : Restaurants

We dined at Pono Pacific Kitchen in Grover Beach, California right at 4PM today to try out the new Hawaiian restaurant in the West End of Grover Beach named Pono Pacific Kitchen.

It's a higher end restaurant with a 1 page food menu and excellent service. They currently only serve dinner and no lunch time hours. They have a couple of kid's options off the menu, which I appreciate very much!

At the center of the restaurant is a bar, fully stocked with an inviting vibe. The doors are all ope...
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Sensorio Field of Lights Paso Robles Review by a Central Coast Mom

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Saturday, August 13, 2022, In : Paso Robles

I've walked through Sensorio Field of Lights twice so far and I enjoyed it the second time more than the first time as I was able to walk on the opposite side, which I missed the first time. The Field of Lights is a big loop that you walk through with a couple of in between trails within the loop.
Sensorio Lights

Sensorio is a place you must visit if you're planning on visiting San Luis Obispo or San Luis Obispo County. There is an entrance fee, which you can buy online to save a bit of time. Even though the...
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PCH Shave Ice & Boba Shop Review | Pismo Beach

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, In : Boba

I tried boba at a new boba shop in Pismo Beach on Oak Park Blvd yesterday called PCH Shave Ice & Boba. I was impressed by the quality and taste of their boba!

I tried the Tiger Pismo (pictured above) and it was delicious. I loved the small corn hole game they have available to use as well. The ambiance was comfortable and relaxing. It's in the same shopping center as a couple of awesome restaurants including a sushi joint and Mediterranean restaurant. There are stores that I frequent like Ro...
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Things To Do In Our Spare Time

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, In : Romantic

My husband works a shift work schedule and I work intermittently from home as a contractor for other companies.

In the rare occasion that my husband is home during the week while the kids are at school, we'd take advantage of our proximity to fantastic places around San Luis Obispo County and do something a couple of tourists would mostly do.

Here is a list of things that I'd like to do in my spare time, besides watching shows and movies, with my husband around SLO County:

Eat at a nice and hig...

Mustang Waterpark Review for Families | Arroyo Grande

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Saturday, June 4, 2022, In : Arroyo Grande

We went to the Mustang Waterpark at Lopez Lake in Arroyo Grande today! The Mustang Waterpark is only open during the summer season until Labor Day each year so we took advantage of it this summer and had a wonderful experience. I actually prefer this waterpark in Arroyo Grande, compared to the Ravine Waterpark in Paso Robles. (See our Ravine Waterpark review here.)

The water park is smaller than Ravine Waterpark, the only other waterpark in SLO County, and that makes it less stressful for me ...
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Pros and Cons for Going To a Mother and Son Dance

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Saturday, May 14, 2022, In : Mom Life

I've been to three Mother & Son Dances so far: one on the East Coast and two on the West Coast.

Below is a table on Pros and Cons on Going to a Mother and Son Dance based on my personal experiences and feelings, and I hope this will help you if you're on the fence about going to one.

**Pros and Cons on Going to a Mother and Son Dance**
Pros	Cons
You get to bond and spend special time with your son(s). It can be fun to dress up according to the theme of the Dance or dress up nicely. ...

MilkT Society Boba Shop in Pismo Beach Review

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, In : Boba

Located on the corner of HWY 1 & Hinds Ave. in Pismo Beach is a newer boba shop named MilkT Society. I tried their boba for the first time today, on their opening day!

I was anxious and excited! Their sign wasn't up yet at the time nor was their kitchen ready but I already liked the decor of it inside. I ordered the Black Tea with boba while my husband ordered the Iced Vietnamese Coffee with boba. (Update: I came back a couple of weeks later to try the blush matcha as pictured below and the Mi...
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Regal Arroyo Grande Movie Theater Review | California

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Sunday, May 8, 2022, In : Movies

Movie Theaters in Arroyo Grande When we want to go to the movies, we usually go to Regal Arroyo Grande as they have a lot of restaurants and grocery stores close by! The restaurants list that are close include: In N Out, Urbane Cafe, Red Dirt Coffee, Palo Mesa Pizza, Blaze Pizza and Jamba Juice.

Tesla Charging Stations for Electric Cars Right Next to Regal Arroyo Grande

If you have an electric car, they have Tesla Charging Stations right next to this Regal Theater, which makes it very convenient to charge up. The charging s...
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Reflection on In-Class School Learning for Kids After the Pandemic

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Thursday, April 28, 2022, In : Mom Life

There's only 6 weeks left for the school year and I'm starting to look back at how much has happened for my two kids.

For the first half of the year, all of the kids were required to wear masks. It feels like that was so long ago but it was only a few months ago that the masks mandate was lifted for the kids around this part of town.

It never bothered my kids that they had to wear masks. Since the start of the pandemic, I sewed their fabric masks with 100% cotton fabric, as I've read it's ...
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"No, you may not", says Madonna Inn about bringing outside pool toys (Guest Room Review for Antique Cars Room)

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Monday, April 18, 2022, In : Madonna Inn

I called Madonna Inn this morning as I'm so excited about our upcoming and second Madonna Inn staycation! We've only stayed at the Madonna Inn once before at the room named San Francisco, Room #121. (Read my personal review of this Room #121.) They have an outdoor pool for room guests and last time we didn't bring any fun toys for the kids so this time, I wanted to see if we could bring them.

I called their main line and a lady answered. I asked her "We're checking in later today and I wanted ...
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Picking Up a Lemon Coconut Cake From Madonna Inn

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Friday, April 15, 2022, In : Madonna Inn

This weekend is going to be a very eventful Easter weekend with my husband's birthday tomorrow and Easter happening on the following day.

I had put in an order for a small Lemon Coconut Cake at the Madonna Inn online a month ago for pick up today at 11AM. I had a few things to do today so I decided to pick up the cake last to avoid any melting frosting.

First, I went to Ross, a block away from Madonna Inn, to pick up some small chocolate bunnies as it is Easter Day on Sunday and I still need t...
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Upcoming 2023 Easter Egg Hunts in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Sunday, April 10, 2022, In : Easter

Jump to SLO Easter Brunch List

Easter Season for 2023 is over! To see other upcoming familly-friendly events besides Easter egg hunts all over San Luis Obispo county throughout the year, go to the Family-Friendly Events page.

2023 Upcoming Egg Hunts:

(I took this picture at the Egg Hunt event at Dinosaur Caves Park in Pismo Beach)

April 1, 2023 (Sat) - Easter Carnival at Nipomo Community Presbyterian Church from 11AM - 2PM. Egg hunt, petting zoo, cake walk, bounce house, pizza (for purchase)...

Teen Centers and Suggested Places for Teens Including Skate Parks in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Sunday, January 23, 2022, In : For Kids

Here is a list of Teen Centers and places for teenagers to thrive in San Luis Obispo County:

Colony Park Community Center Teen Center for 6th - 12 graders. Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday from after school - 6PM. $10 yearly membership fee (scholarships available). Each teen will receive a Teen Center Membership Card to be scanned each time he/she enters the Teen Center. Each member must have a signed waiver to participate and must follow all Teen Center Rules. Please bring waivers to the C...

Gluten Free and Dairy Free Food or Vegan Grocery Stores in SLO

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Monday, November 22, 2021, In : Vegan

As I'm getting more familiar with finding things that are gluten-free and dairy-free for a family member, I feel so fortunate that San Luis Obispo is so understanding on dietary needs at restaurants and grocery stores. I think if I were in a different town, in a different state, it would be a very different and difficult journey.

Here's a list of grocery stores that I've found to have gluten-free snacks in San Luis Obispo County so far:

Grocery Outlet - The Grocery Outlet that we frequent is...

San Simeon Hotels in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Thursday, October 7, 2021, In : San Simeon

San Luis Obispo County has a lot of famous cities and attractions. One of them is Hearst Castle.

Hearst Castle is located in San Simeon city, a coastal town that's quaint and beautiful.

There's less than a dozen hotels in San Simeon but if you'd like to find a quieter part of California that's right at the coast, then San Simeon is the perfect getaway. Here's a list of hotels in San Simeon.

Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
This hotel is only 3 miles from Hearst Castle.

The Morgan at San Simeon Hotel...
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Hey Transplant Mom

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Friday, August 20, 2021, In : Mom Life

Hey Transplant Mom,

I understand your pain, uncertainty and a bit of emptiness as you wait by the gate to retrieve your child and hear a group of moms chatting it up. You think, "I'm just going to focus on my child" but deep down, you wish to be in that conversation. The way they wave to each other and go on outings together to talk about mom life is something you only get to do via Zoom with your close friends from a distance. That group over there is maybe an established group that took a fe...
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Exploration Discovery Center Experience in Grover Beach

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Saturday, August 7, 2021, In : For Kids

We visited the Exploration Discovery Center in Grover Beach on their opening day today! Here are some pictures from our visit below.

After I picked my kids up from summer day camp, I asked them if they're up for exploring a new place today. I showed them pictures that the Exploration Discovery Center posted on their social media and website and the kids decided to go, judging from the posted pictures. When we got there, there were more things to do than expected!

Immediately upon entry, the...
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Circus Vargas California in San Luis Obispo

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Tuesday, July 6, 2021, In : Circus Vargas

I was happy to hear that Circus Vargas debuted in San Luis Obispo this summer and we got the chance to watch a performance the day before Independence Day at the beautiful Madonna Inn property.

It was a sunny day and we caught the 4pm showing. Parking right by the circus tent was $10 cash, which we gladly paid instead of parking far away. I had an elderly family member with us and this makes a huge difference for him who has bad knees.

This was not our very first Circus Vargas show. We went to ...
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Circus Vargas in San Luis Obispo

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, In : Circus Vargas

Read our blog entry about our recent experience watching Circus Vargas perform on July 3, 2021 on this post.

Circus Vargas San Luis Obispo 2021
Circus Vargas is proud to debut their amazing new 2021 production “Mr. V’s Big Top Dream” in San Luis Obispo June 17 through July 5!

A must-see, show-stopping spectacular certain to spark the imagination and indulge the senses!!

More sparkle! More sequins! Bigger and better than ever!

Run away with the circus, for two unforgettable hours of nonstop action, thrills, excitement a...

La Quinta Inn in San Luis Obispo Downtown Review and Dinner at 1865 Craft House

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, In : Hotel

We did a staycation at La Quinta in Downtown San Luis Obispo about a year after the pandemic started.

It was a short 17 hour staycation. Our main motivated was we wanted to be able to use our 1865 Craft House & Kitchen gift card that we've been hoarding and since it's located right next door from the La Quinta Inn in Downtown San Luis Obispo, we decided to have a relaxing tourist experience as locals as well. Since traveling far was not advised during the pandemic, we opted for staycations ins...
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Summer Camps in San Luis Obispo County - List of 27 Options

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Thursday, May 13, 2021, In : For Kids

Here's a list of summer camp options for kids that are usually available in the summer throughout San Luis Obispo (SLO) County below. Most places don't post information until a couple of months before summer break begins.

2023 Summer Camps for Kids in San Luis Obispo County Availability

Summer School Camp from City of San Luis Obispo Youth Services They call it KidVENTURE! They have weekly themes for ages 5 - 12 years old, separated by 3 groups. They usually don't post information until a coupl...

How to Celebrate Mother's Day in SLO County - San Luis Obispo

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, In : Mothers Day

Every year, we have Mother's Day as a special day to celebrate. Sometimes I love this holiday even more than my birthday as I feel like I'm celebrating it with all of the moms in country.

(My sons playing a game at a local Mother Son Dance that they attended with me during Mother's Day weekend)

Here are some tips on how to celebrate Mother's Day in San Luis Obispo County for 2023:

Go to a special event. There are special Mother's Day themed events around San Luis Obispo County. You can check o...

Coach Wallet Bought From Pismo Beach Premium Outlets

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Monday, April 26, 2021, In : Pismo Beach

Today, I decided to treat myself to a medium sized wallet from the Coach Outlet Store in Pismo Beach, California. Pismo Beach is located in San Luis Obispo County and is a popular beach destination. Lucky for me, there is a Premium Outlets there and a Coach Outlet Store.

Coach products are at a discounted prize at an outlet store. I bought a medium chalk wallet that was originally priced at $178 but I only bought it for $62.30. With tax, it came out to $67.13. I'm pretty happy with my purchas...
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Madonna Inn Room Review: The San Francisco Room

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, February 24, 2021, In : Madonna Inn

Earlier this month, my family decided to celebrate our son's birthday by planning a surprise staycation at the Madonna Inn! Madonna Inn is a famous California boutique motel property where every room has a different theme, meaning no two rooms are alike!

Now that the stay-at-home order has been lifted and back to a tier level, we felt that our son deserved something extra special. He missed traveling like we used to do when things were more normal and had always enjoyed staying at hotels so w...
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Dutch Bros Review in Arroyo Grande

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, February 24, 2021, In : Restaurants

Located on the same side of the Starbucks on Grand Ave., Dutch Bros is a refreshing alternative for getting coffee. The high-spirited staff will get you excited as you're greeted for ordering coffee with their mobile device!
picture of Dutch Bros coffee from Arroyo Grande

picture of Dutch Bros coffee from Arroyo Grande

The lines can get long but there were two lanes when I arrived yesterday in the drive-thru. There were four ladies walking around getting orders so it made the process of ordering so efficient and fast. If you don't know what you're going to order when one of them gets to...
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Early Learning Center Review in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Thursday, January 28, 2021, In : Preschool

I cannot say enough good things about the Early Learning Center that my 4 year old is going to. Even during the pandemic, they are able to get the kids to come twice a week for 3 hours in the mornings. This has been our saving grace as my little one needed some social interaction and some experience with school before he starts kindergarten in the fall.

More information about Early Learning Centers in San Luis Obispo County .

Because they had different grants for this school year, you don't have...
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Christmas Season in SLO

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Wednesday, December 16, 2020, In : Holidays

There are many ongoing events around San Luis Obispo County, the 3 most largest light displays are:

Holiday Plaza with Christmas Lights in Mission Plaza has Santa available for pictures until Dec. 24, 2022. However, the lights will be up longer than that (until Jan 2, 2023). It's free to visit here in the day and the evening to just see the Christmas decorations or watch the lights at night. See my most recent downtown SLO date night instagram video reel to get a small glimpse of some of the...

The Pumpkin Patch in Edna Valley | San Luis Obispo

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Sunday, October 4, 2020, In : Fall

To see upcoming Halloween and Fall Events and a list of pumpkin patches throughout San Luis Obispo County, go to our Halloween & Fall Events in SLO page.

See our video reels on my instagram to see other pumpkin patches that we've visited:

IG Video reel of our visit at The Pumpkin Patch in Edna Valley

IG Video reel of our visit to the pumpkin patch at SLO Creek Farms

IG Video reel of our visit to the pumpkin patch at Tar Creek Ranch
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Spirit Halloween Store Visit | San Luis Obispo on Madonna Road

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Sunday, September 13, 2020, In : Fall

Every year, we take the kids to visit the Spirit Halloween Store in San Luis Obispo. They always have new costumes for the Halloween season. Some of my favorite ones were Marshmello, baby costumes and family themed costumes. For 2022, the Spirit Halloween Store in San Luis Obispo is located at the Former Dollar Tree: 491 Madonna Road San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

Watch our video clip from our past visit at Spirit Halloween. Some features can be a little too scary for the little ones. They alw...

Distance Learning for Fall

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Friday, July 31, 2020, In : Coronavirus

(My makeshift desk below for online learning.)

Distance learning starts back again in a couple of weeks for my soon-to-be 1st grader. It's going to be his second go at this. We're happy to be learning but distance learning means parent involvement is crucial from 9AM - 2:30PM on school days with more live meetings every day this time. It means mommy is also one of his educators again and we're going to have to do this as a team. We've learned how to make it work better for my son during the la...
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Ending of Phase 2 (Beach Pictures) Reopening in SLO

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Sunday, June 14, 2020, In : Coronavirus

Stating tomorrow, San Luis Obispo County will move into Phase 3 of reopening and today is the last day of phase 2. A lot has happened since my past post during phase 1.

The kids are done with distance learning now so we have a bit of free time and I can make more fabric masks for them for their growing faces. See my DIY fabric face mask blog post.

We're also able to enjoy the beach again now.

Picture of Phase 1 reopening at Pismo State Beach is above.

We've been to the beach three times since th...
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What To Do for Father's Day in SLO County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, June 4, 2020, In : Free Things to do

Doesn't it seem like there are more events around the area for Mother's Day than Father's Day? Here are some ideas on what to do around San Luis Obispo County that could help make it a more memorable Father's Day.

Go to a Special Event.There is one free concert in Grover Beach that is for the public on June 16, 2023 (Father's Day). It is part of the Grover Beach Summer Concert Series at Ramona Park in Grover Beach on Sundays from 3PM - 6PM. Free music entertainment. Bring money to buy food. ...

Tooth and Nail Winery in Paso Robles Review

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Sunday, March 8, 2020, In : Wineries

There's not a shortage of wineries in San Luis Obispo County. With more than 200 wineries just in Paso Robles alone, it'll take years before you can visit them all. Paso Robles is located in the northern side of San Luis Obispo County and depending on when you visit, the weather here could be drastically different than the main San Luis Obispo area or beachside.

One of the more famous wineries is Tooth & Nail Winery and just entering the parking lot will explain why. The tasting room and space...
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2023 Easter Egg Hunts in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Wednesday, March 4, 2020, In : Easter

Jump to SLO Easter Brunch List

2023 Egg Hunts:

April 1, 2023 (Sat) - Easter Carnival at Nipomo Community Presbyterian Church from 11AM - 2PM. Activities include Easter egg hunt, petting zoo, cake walk, bounce house, pizza trolley (for purchase) and games! Egg hunt schedule: 11AM: ages 2 & under, 11:40AM: ages 3-4, 12:10PM: ages 5-7 and 12:40PM: ages 8-12. Address: 1235 N Thompson Ave., Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
April 1, 2023 (Sat) - Kids Day 2023 and Egg Hunt at Nipomo Community Park from 11AM -...

Ravine Waterpark in Paso Robles Review By a Central Coast Mom

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Sunday, March 1, 2020, In : Paso Robles

The Ravine Waterpark in Paso Robles is a large and fun waterpark in San Luis Obispo County. It is only open during the summer season until Labor Day every year. The only other water park is at Lopez Lake in Arroyo Grande called Mustang Waterpark and it's much smaller. Read about my experience at Mustang Waterpark.

At Ravine Waterpark, you pay according to how tall you are. If you're 42 inches or taller, you'll pay more than if you're under. They seem to increase their prices a little bit eve...
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SLO Craft Beer Fest Review - Madonna Inn Expo San Luis Obispo

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Sunday, February 23, 2020, In : Breweries

Two days ago, I went to the SLO Craft Beer Fest at the Alex Madonna Expo Center at the famous Madonna Inn property in San Luis Obispo, California.

We decided to go with the Friday ticket versus the Saturday ticket because it was significantly cheaper and we're hoping it would be less crowded. It was a steady crowd but not overwhelming and we enjoyed ourselves with unlimited tastings and food samples too. We didn't have to bring any extra cash for food and drinks because our ticket included al...
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Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa and The Gardens of Avila Restaurant Review

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Sunday, February 16, 2020, In : Romantic

As a Valentine's Day celebration, my husband and I used the Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa gift card that he gifted me last November for our 7th anniversary yesterday.

We had our very first couple's massage together at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. After our spa time, we had brunch at The Gardens of Avila Restaurant, also part of Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort & Spa's property. When we came here for the first time, we were a bit clueless on how things work around here and hop...
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Tropical Hawaiian BBQ Review | Arroyo Grande

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Saturday, February 15, 2020, In : Restaurants

Tropical Hawaiian BBQ is located in the same shopping center as the Smart N' Final in the Arroyo Grande (AG) area and I'm happy to say that Tropical Hawaiian BBQ is exactly what I think a Hawaiian restaurant would be like. The menu includes katsu chicken, loco moco, kalbi ribs and other Hawaiian entrees. I ordered the Daily Special B which include katsu chicken, one scoop of white rice and one scoop of macaroni salad and I did not finish my meal. The portions were huge!
Tropical Hawaiian BBQ Arroyo Grande

The katsu chicken remi...
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Talley Vineyards Review in Arroyo Grande - SLO County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, January 30, 2020, In : Wineries

We visited Talley Vineyards in Arroyo Grande today. Arroyo Grande (AG) is part of San Luis Obispo county on the Central Coast of California. Talley Vineyards is one of the more popular vineyards in AG. It's located in the middle of a lot of farms and wineries so you won't find a lot of restaurants or other types of businesses nearby.

This vineyard hosts a lot of events throughout the year with some that are family-friendly. Their wine member lounge is not, however. Although their wine member ...
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Meadow Park in San Luis Obispo Has a Playground

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, January 23, 2020, In : Free Things to do

Located about a 5 minute drive from the famous Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo is a very family-friendly, pet-friendly and picnic-friendly park called Meadow Park. There are a few benches spread throughout the park which makes Meadow Park a really great option for kids' birthday parties.

With a lot of green grass and playground, you'll find a lot of activities happening here. With trails all around the park, you can take an easy stroll or exercise. Read about a few Moms Exercise Groups for San ...
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Comparing 3 Day Blinds and Lowe's Blinds

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, December 19, 2019, In : Home Improvement

Blinds are so surprisingly expensive to buy. We learned this from moving into a home that did not have a single blind and had to go shopping for them. I have 13 windows and 2 sliding doors to find blinds/shades for!

Upon doing my research on blinds, I started getting ads from 3 Day Blinds on my facebook newsfeed (spies!). They were promoting their buy 1, get the second one 50% off. They also offered free consultation so I filled out the online form to request a date to schedule a consultation....
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Veteran's Day Free Meals and 2022 Events in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Monday, October 21, 2019, In : Veterans

I'm a veteran's wife so every year for the last 10 years, I go on a list hunt ahead of time to find free things for my special veteran on Veteran's Day. This year, Veteran's Day is Sat., November 11, 2023.

Major chains are usually very consistent with offering free meals for veterans and active military on Veteran's Day. Here is the list I've compiled for San Luis Obispo County and nearby.

Please be ready to show proof of military service or veteran's status when requested by any of these comp...
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Visiting Farm Animals at Windmill Farms in Arroyo Grande

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Friday, October 4, 2019, In : Farms

Today, we visited farms animals at Windmill Farms in Arroyo Grande (AG), California. (Arroyo Grande is part of San Luis Obispo County). We have farms all over this beautiful county which gives the kids many opportunities to visit farm animals.

Upon arriving Windmill Farms, I was instantly impressed by how well kept the farm is.

The place is so beautiful, I did not take a single bad picture! We were allowed to feed lettuce to the farm animals. Just ask the workers there at Windmill Farms if you ...
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Our Parent Participation Experience

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Saturday, September 14, 2019, In : Preschool

Note: This review below was when the Parent Participation Program in Oceano was still open before Covid-19. This Parent Participation Program in San Luis Obispo County in Oceano (South County part) has been permanently discontinued. However, the one located in San Luis Obispo Obispo City (North County part) is still running. It's still a good read to learn the benefits of being part of a Parent Participation program.

After moving to San Luis Obispo county, we were recommended by a local to t...
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2023 Fall and Holiday Family Events in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, August 15, 2019, In : Fall

2023 Fall Event List

Here's a list of free or upcoming family friendly events in Pismo Beach Area and San Luis Obispo County for the Fall and Christmas season of 2023 below:

September 29 & 30, 2023 (Fri & Sat) - Arroyo Grande Valley's 84th Harvest Festival & Parade in Arroyo Grande. More details to come.
October 21 - 22, 2023 (Sat & Sun) - 77th Annual Pismo Beach Clam Festival. Free admission. Every year, Pismo Beach Clam Festival attracts generations of families and visitors. I've atte...

Tolosa Winery Edna Valley Review - San Luis Obispo

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Monday, August 5, 2019, In : Wineries

Wineries and San Luis Obispo county go hand in hand. If you're a wine enthusiast, you're definitely in for a treat when you visit SLO! The wine culture here is amazing.

Just the drive to Tolosa Winery from the entry point towards the parking lot in Edna Valley has always wowed me. The vineyards engulf you as you continue towards the parking lot. Here's the video that I took (non-edited and not a boomerang-type effect) from our drive from entering the road.

I've been to this winery almost a d...
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What Your Child Should Know Before Kindergarten

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, July 25, 2019, In : Preschool

My first-born is starting kindergarten next month. Back in May, he had his Kindergarten Round-up (something that they have around San Luis Obispo county for the little ones who are about to start kindergarten in a few months) where they tested him on at least 10 things: like drawing a picture of himself, writing his name, counting to 20 and more! I was surprised that they were testing them on all that because I was expecting a 'round-up' to be like an orientation. My son passed all of it, tha...
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California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Monday, June 24, 2019, In : California Academy of Sciences

Without traffic, San Francisco is only a 3.5 hour drive north from San Luis Obispo. With a famous major city this close to SLO, we took advantage of the proximity and went on a family weekend getaway this past weekend to explore San Francisco and the California Academy of Sciences!

The California Academy of Sciences is an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest and natural history museum (plus more) all in one place! This multi-storied building with also live animals at almost every corner of the la...
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Street Food Finds in San Luis Obispo (SLO) County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Friday, June 21, 2019, In : Restaurants

There is just something really refreshing about street food that makes eating out so exciting. Although street food is illegal around here, like you know bringing out your pots of food and selling it on the corner of a street type, the many city-run farmers markets around San Luis Obispo area and the authentic little restaurant stands give the very same exciting feel.

You get to eat out on the streets or buy it and take it home while it's still piping hot. Here some of the great street food fi...
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Circus Vargus Giveaway for San Luis Obispo

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, June 13, 2019, In : Circus Vargas

(Note: This giveaway was for 2019. To see the latest information for Circus Vargas performances in 2021 at the Madonna Inn, click here.)

Win tickets to see Circus Vargas’ 50th anniversary extravaganza, 'The Greatest of Ease’ under the Big Top in San Luis Obispo at Madonna Inn June 28 through July 8! Always fun for the entire family, Circus Vargas’ incredible new 2019 production highlights an amazing cast of world- renowned performers! Death- Defying Acrobats, Daredevils, Aerialists, Jugg...
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Charles Paddock Zoo in Atascadero Review & Pictures | San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, June 6, 2019, In : For Kids

Charles Paddock Zoo in Atascadero, California is the only zoo in San Luis Obispo county.

When you walk through the entrance of the zoo, you'll immediately find the pretty pink flamingos to your left!

It's a small zoo but for a small admission, it's really worth it. My favorites are the red pandas!

The kids will be entertained (See Lemurs below from Charles Paddock Zoo). Zoo prices for children are by age group but children who are 2 years old and under are free. If you're planning on taking the ...
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Grover Beach Hotels and Pictures

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Friday, May 24, 2019, In : Beaches

Grover Beach is part of Pismo State Beach (all part of San Luis Obispo county) but a much smaller beach, compared to Pismo Beach. There's only a couple of hotels in Grover Beach so our best suggestion is to stay at a hotel in Pismo Beach and just be a few minutes drive away from it. Walking Entry to Grover Beach is almost like a secret. Grover Beach has a dunes portion where you drive on the beach with your vehicle (for a fee), or you can walk on the non-vehicle side and park (no fee) behind ...
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Arroyo Grande Hotels and Things To Do - Arroyo Grande SLO County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, May 23, 2019, In : Arroyo Grande

Arroyo Grande is a city located in San Luis Obispo County on the Central Coast of California. Only 10 minutes inland from Pismo Beach and Grover Beach, this more suburban city has charm with the Arroyo Grande Village and historic area right in the heart.

Arroyo Grande Hotels

Best Western Casa Grande Inn

The Best Western Casa Grande Inn next to Pismo Beach, California is pleasantly situated mid-way between Los Angeles and San Francisco on the beautiful, sunny central coast. Hotel guests are ju...
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Before and After with Chalk Paint | DIY Project

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, In : DIY

Throwing away old furniture around here in SLO requires a bit more thought and money to do. Not only it actually costs money to go to a trash dump to throw a piece of furniture away (different than many places in the East Coast where it's free for residents to throw their own trash), but I'm starting to be against the wasteful habit of buying new stuff when you can reuse the old.

With many people moving in and out around here, it's really easy for anyone to find something old, but still good q...
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Free Summer Concerts in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, In : Free Concerts

San Luis Obispo County is very lucky to have sponsored concerts and events throughout the summer. From downtown to the beaches, there's always one every weekend. Here's the list for 2023:

Downtown San Luis Obispo

Free Summer Concert Series in Downtown San Luis Obispo: Free Concerts on Fridays in Mission Plaza from 5PM - 8PM from June 23 - September 8, 2023. Bring reusable cups to event (no glass). No outside alcoholic beverages, no pets and no smoking. Family friendly. There will be drinks a...

The Galley Seafood Grill in Morro Bay Review

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Friday, May 3, 2019, In : Restaurants

We had a visitor in town and decided to take our special guest to Morro Bay to see the Morro Rock, sea otters, seals and have some lunch at The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar

It's the ideal place to take a visitor because it is right on the bay with views of all of the above: Morro Rock, sea otters, seals and more. We saw people kayaking while we were in our seats inside the restaurant. It's such a special experience. Moreover, their food is spot on with local classics such as clam chowder, fish a...
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List of Boba Shops I've Visited in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Tuesday, April 16, 2019, In : Boba

Lucky for SLO residents and tourists, there are many places that sell boba! Some of them are dedicated tea shops while others are donut shops or restaurants. Check out these boba places that I've visited below.
Boba Shop in Pismo Beach

(Pictured above a photo I took while enjoying a boba at MilkT Society in Pismo Beach. Scroll down to read more details about this boba shop.)

Sweetie Cup Tea House

Located in downtown SLO on Churro Street is a true tea house with wifi and the works that you would expect at a tea house...
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Cave Landing Beautiful Beach Hikes in San Luis Obispo

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Tuesday, April 16, 2019,

If healthy and abled, take advantage of the many hikes and cliff views of the beaches of San Luis Obispo County.

Cave Landing and Pirate's Cove
The parking lot can be really bumpy so if you don't have a 4x4, try to park close to the front of the entryway! You can't go wrong with any of the trails here. We took the main one where it takes you to the cave.

Watch out for this cave because it leads you to a cliff to the ocean of Avila Beach!

A short walk from the cave is the other end to Pirate's ...
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Avila Beach Pier and Avila Beach Farmers Market

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Tuesday, April 16, 2019, In : Beaches

The old public Avila Beach Pier is solely made out of wood and when we walked on it with my 5 year old and 2 year old sons, they stumbled a few times. It's not as smooth as the Pismo Beach Pier but it's worth trying to walk on, if you are able. The views, not surprisingly, are phenomenal.

On one side, you see the pretty homes on the hills right above the water and on the other side, you see another pier but that one's private by Cal Poly. If you have excellent vision, you'll also see that ther...
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Free Preschool Program For All Families in San Luis Obispo (SLO) County

Posted by San Luis Obispo Mom on Thursday, March 14, 2019, In : Preschool

First 5 Preschools are all over the San Luis Obispo County (8 different schools) and they're free to the public.

First 5 Preschools, also known as Early Learning Centers are funded by the San Luis Obispo First 5 Children and Families Commission
> Open to preschool children between 3 to 5 years old.
> Priority to 4 year olds who will be entering kindergarten soon. The free preschool programs for ages 3 - 5 are held at six different schools in San Luis Obispo county including: San Gabriel Eleme...
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Review and Pictures of Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards in SLO

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Monday, March 11, 2019, In : Wineries

Over the weekend, we had special visitors and decided to take them to the kid-friendly Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards in San Luis Obispo.

The most extraordinary part about this vineyard is that they have beautiful peacocks roaming around. Enjoying a taster in their large outdoor patio while listening to the peacocks was a very interesting experience! Address of Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards: 1947 See Canyon Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405.

See more pictures that SanLuisObispoMom.com took from the ...
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Morro Rock at Morro Bay in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Sunday, March 3, 2019, In : Beaches

Morro Rock

An idyllic backdrop for Morro Bay, Morro Rock is the last of the (Nine Sisters) extinct volcanic peaks along Highway 1 from San Luis Obispo. This 576' tall landmark stands at the mouth of our harbor and is home to nesting Peregrine Falcons. The Morro Rock is huge.

You can't miss it and this volcanic plug attracts many tourists. There is a beachside right by the rock too and a trail that you can walk around alongside.

Always free. Address: 1300 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA, 93442

Sea...

Valentine's Day at Copper Cafe at Madonna Inn

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Friday, February 15, 2019, In : Madonna Inn

Copper Cafe, inside of Madonna Inn, is a very popular place to visit in San Luis Obispo for tourists and special occasions for locals.

The decor of Copper Cafe is a reflection of the whole Madonna Inn property. There is a lot of pink; from the carpets to the napkins. Their food and bakery items are delicious. Service can be questionable with speed depending on who your server is, like anywhere else. However, the ambiance is perfect for special occasions like Valentine's Day! It's unique, war...
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Amazing Beach Views in Pismo Beach, SLO

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Saturday, January 26, 2019, In : Beaches

The beautiful ocean, clean sand and peaceful setting of Pismo Beach makes one feel like they are in a dream. This is the epitome of the California dream and we're living in it. My kids and I took a stroll yesterday in PB "Pismo Beach" and here are the pictures I took from my regular Samsung phone, unedited. It is amazing here!

When I was living in San Diego, I would hear the Visit California commercial say "Where the mountains meet the sea" and here, in SLO, in Pismo Beach, they really do meet...
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San Luis Obispo Children's Museum Review - Downtown San Luis Obispo

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Wednesday, January 23, 2019, In : For Kids

San Luis Obispo Children's Museum First Floor

As locals, we like to go to San Luis Obispo Children's Museum's "Moonlight Hours" where anyone could come visit that night from 5pm - 8pm for FREE (Now, they've shortened this to 5PM - 7PM)! Here are the photos that we took from our free San Luis Obispo Children's Museum visits below. They usually have the Moonlight Hours event every month so check out their website to see when their next one is.

With three floors, my 4 year old and 2 year old sons were so excited and thrilled! We started wi...
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Tiny Tots Enrichment Program Review

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Thursday, January 17, 2019, In : Preschool

While researching on affordable preschool programs for my 4 year old and 2 year old boys, I stumbled on a brief information on the Tiny Tots Enrichment Program that's organized at the Grover Beach Community Center.

The Tiny Tots program is run by the Parks & Recreation Department of the City of Grover Beach. I placed my little one in the program in May 2021 when they re-opened from the pandemic and my 4 year old absolutely loved it. It's well structured and they do crafts every day as well a...
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Exercise Groups for Moms Bringing Little Ones in San Luis Obispo area

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Sunday, January 6, 2019, In : Mom groups

Stroller Strides
As of August 2022, Stroller Strides website for San Luis Obispo county has been showing errors: https://slocounty.fit4mom.com (redirects to a generic page now). They must have cancelled the local chapter for SLO County.

More about Stroller Strides: Stroller Strides is a great exercise group for moms who bring their kids in their strollers with them while they work out! After the work out, the kids can have some playground fun as all of the work outs are done at parks with playg...
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MOPS Mom Groups in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Saturday, January 5, 2019, In : Mom groups

When I moved here as a mother of 2 preschoolers, I had been recommended by many people to join MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), a mom group for women with children from birth to five years old. I had joined one on the East Coast.

In San Luis Obispo County, there are currently a few MOPS locations.

The most active ones are run by Grace Central Coast. They have a local website for you to register yourself and your moppets at: https://gracecentralcoast.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1258725...
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Free Storytimes Schedule at the Libraries in San Luis Obispo County

Posted by SanLuisObispoMom.com on Sunday, December 2, 2018, In : Storytime

February 2023 Update

Storytime times are free at all the libraries locations in the San Luis Obispo County. If you can't make it to the times of the library closest to your home, you can always venture out a little bit and go to another time and day at another library.

Here is the weekly story time schedule below for libraries in San Luis Obispo (SLO) County:

Library Storytimes	Day	Time	Story Type
Arroyo Grande Library	Wed & Thurs	10:30 AM	All Ages Storytime
Atascadero Library	Wed & Fri	10:30AM	All Ages Sto...