Things To Do

Upcoming Family-Friendly Events

(Note: Please check with direct organizer for any last minute changes and cancellations, before attending.)

June 26, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. Classic Contemporary Rock & Country Dance will be the performance for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

June 30, 2022 (Thurs) - Concerts In The Park in Paso Robles from 6PM - 8PM at City Park. No pets allowed, no vaping/smoking and no barbecues permitted. Learn more about Paso Robles. Address for GPS: 12th and Spring St., Paso Robles, CA 93446

July 1, 2022 (Fri) - Concerts in the Plaza from 5:30PM - 8PM performed by Resination plus Kevin Graybill at San Luis Obispo Mission Plaza. Free entry. This is an outdoor event. See a past event I attended at the Plaza on my IG. Address: 989 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

July 1, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

July 2, 2022 (Sat) - Summer Concert Series at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30PM - 8:30PM. Free. Bring low-back chair. Food available for purchase. Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

July 3, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. American Roots, Folk & Country Rock will be the performance for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

July 4, 2022 (Mon) - Fourth of July Celebration in the Village of Arroyo Grande at Heritage Square Park. Bring your picnic baskets, lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a variety of musical themes. First concert is 11AM - 1PM and second is 2PM - 4PM. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St., Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

July 4, 2022 (Mon) - 4th of July Celebration with Fireworks at Barney Schwartz Park in Paso Robles from 2PM - 10PM includes kids activities, music, food trucks and fireworks. Free admission and fireworks. Address: 2970 Union Rd., Paso Robles, CA 93446

July 4, 2022 (Mon) - Pismo Beach Pier fireworks will start around 9PM by the City of Pismo Beach.

July 4, 2022 (Mon) - Fireworks at around 9PM at Cayucos Pier by City of Cayucos. See my picture of Cayucos Pier on instagram. Address for GPS: Pacific Ave, Cayucos, CA 93430

July 7, 2022 (Thurs) - Concerts In The Park in Paso Robles from 6PM - 8PM at City Park. No pets allowed, no vaping/smoking and no barbecues permitted. Learn more about Paso Robles. Address for GPS: 12th and Spring St., Paso Robles, CA 93446

July 8, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

July 8, 2022 (Fri) - Concerts in the Plaza from 5:30PM - 8PM performed by The Mother Corn Shuckers plus Dulcie Taylor at San Luis Obispo Mission Plaza. Free entry. This is an outdoor event. See a past event I attended at the Plaza on my IG. Address: 989 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

July 9, 2022 (Sat) - Summer Concert Series at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30PM - 8:30PM. Free. Bring low-back chair. Food available for purchase. Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

July 10, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

July 10, 2022 (Sun) - Pacific Breeze Concert at Dinosaur Caves Park in Pismo Beach from 1PM - 4PM. Enjoy great music and beautiful views with family and friends. Free event. See pictures that I've taken of Dinosaur Caves Park. Address: 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

July 10, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. Top 40 Funk, Rhythm & Blues will be the performance for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

July 14, 2022 (Thurs) - Concerts In The Park in Paso Robles from 6PM - 8PM at City Park. No pets allowed, no vaping/smoking and no barbecues permitted. Learn more about Paso Robles. Address for GPS: 12th and Spring St., Paso Robles, CA 93446

July 15, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

July 15, 2022 (Fri) - Concerts in the Plaza from 5:30PM - 8PM performed by Damon Castillo Band plus Noach Tangeras at San Luis Obispo Mission Plaza. Free entry. This is an outdoor event. See a past event I attended at the Plaza on my IG. Address: 989 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

July 16 & 17 (Fri & Sat) - 36th Annual Central Coast Renaissance Festival at Laguna Lake Park. Fees cost more for adults and less for children ages 6 - 17/Seniors. Price details. Children 5 years old and under are free. You can pay for one day or for both days. There is a parking fee. Address: 503 Madonna Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405. See pictures of when I attended the Central Coast Renaissance. 

July 17, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

July 17, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. 80's Rock N' Roll will be the performance for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

July 20 - 31, 2022 - California Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles. 12 days of fun! Carnival games, rides and fair food and drinks! You can buy tickets at the gate or online from their website. Address: 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles, CA 93446 See my instagram pictures from last year's California Mid-State Fair visit.

July 21, 2022 (Thurs) - Concerts In The Park in Paso Robles from 6PM - 8PM at City Park. No pets allowed, no vaping/smoking and no barbecues permitted. Learn more about Paso Robles. Address for GPS: 12th and Spring St., Paso Robles, CA 93446

July 22, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

July 23, 2022 (Sat) - Summer Concert Series at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30PM - 8:30PM. Free. Bring low-back chair. Food available for purchase. Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

July 24, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

July 24, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. Classic Rock, Pop & Country will be the performance for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

July 29, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

July 30, 2022 (Sat) - Summer Concert Series at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30PM - 8:30PM. Free. Bring low-back chair. Food available for purchase. Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

July 31, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

July 31, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. Rock & Blues will be the performance theme for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

Aug 4, 2022 (Thurs) - Concerts In The Park in Paso Robles from 6PM - 8PM at City Park. No pets allowed, no vaping/smoking and no barbecues permitted. Learn more about Paso Robles. Address for GPS: 12th and Spring St., Paso Robles, CA 93446

August 5, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

August 6, 2022 (Sat) - Summer Concert Series at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30PM - 8:30PM. Free. Bring low-back chair. Food available for purchase. Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

August 6, 2022 (Sat) - Movies in the Gardens at Sunken Gardens Park from 8PM - 10:30PM. Bring a blanket, low-back chair and your family. Free outdoor event showing movie Encanto (PG)! Address: 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

August 7, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

August 7, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. Eagles Tribute will be the performance for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

August 11, 2022 (Thurs) - Concerts In The Park in Paso Robles from 6PM - 8PM at City Park. No pets allowed, no vaping/smoking and no barbecues permitted. Learn more about Paso Robles. Address for GPS: 12th and Spring St., Paso Robles, CA 93446

August 12, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

August 13, 2022 (Sat) - Movies in the Gardens at Sunken Gardens Park from 8PM - 10:30PM. Bring a blanket, low-back chair and your family. Free outdoor event showing movie Dog (PG)! Address: 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

August 14, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

August 14, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. 70's Musical Tribute will be the performance for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

Aug 18, 2022 (Thurs) - Concerts In The Park in Paso Robles from 6PM - 8PM at City Park. No pets allowed, no vaping/smoking and no barbecues permitted. Learn more about Paso Robles. Address for GPS: 12th and Spring St., Paso Robles, CA 93446

August 19, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

August 20, 2022 (Sat) - SafetyFest & Trading Day / Family Fun in the Park in Paso Robles Park Downtown from 10AM - 5PM. Free admission. Market, music, dancing, fun activities and active safety learning experiences. Address: Spring St & 12th St., Paso Robles, CA

August 21, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

August 21, 2022 (Sun) - Grover Beach Summer Concert series at Ramona Park from 3PM - 6PM. Free admission. High Energy Rockin' Blues will be the performance for this Grover Beach event. Bring your own lawn chairs to sit. Address: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

August 26, 2022 (Fri) - Avila Beach Farmers' Market on Fridays from 4PM - 8PM. Live music, fresh local produce and ready made available food an drinks for purchase. Read my blog post about the Avila Beach Farmers' Market and pictures of Avila Beach. Address for GPS: 443 Front St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

August 27, 2022 (Sat) - Summer Concert Series at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30PM - 8:30PM. Free. Bring low-back chair. Food available for purchase. Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

August 27, 2022 (Sat) - Movies in the Gardens at Sunken Gardens Park from 8PM - 10:30PM. Bring a blanket, low-back chair and your family. Free outdoor event showing movie Sing 2 (PG)! Address: 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

August 27 & 28, 2022 - Stone Soup Music Festival, Food & Street Fair at Ramona Garden Park and surrounding streets in Grover Beach. 12 bands, 2 stages, Kids Zone, food, crafts and more. Address for GPS: 993 Ramona Ave., Grover Beach, CA 93433

August 28, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

September 3, 2022 (Sat) - Summer Concert Series at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30PM - 8:30PM. Free. Bring low-back chair. Food available for purchase. Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

September 3, 2022 (Sat) - Movies in the Gardens at Sunken Gardens Park from 8PM - 10:30PM. Bring a blanket, low-back chair and your family. Free outdoor event showing movie Eternals (PG-13)! Address: 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

September 4, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Summer - Sept 5, 2022 - Mustang Waterpark in Arroyo Grande Opens for the Season! Read about our Mustang Waterpark experience. (Mustang Waterpark is Closed on certain weekdays: May 31, June 1 - 3, June 6 - 10)

Summer - Sept 5, 2022 -  Ravine Waterpark in Paso Robles Opens for the Season! Read about our Ravine Waterpark experience. (Ravine Waterpark is Closed on certain weekdays: May 31, June 1 - 3, June 6 - 10, Aug 15 - 19, Aug 22 - 26, Aug 29 - Sept 2)

September 10, 2022 (Sat) - Summer Concert Series at Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30PM - 8:30PM. Free. Bring low-back chair. Food available for purchase. Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422

September 11, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

September 16, 2022 (Fri) - Movies in the Park by The City of Pismo Beach Recreation Division showing Luca t 7:15PM at Dinosaur Caves Park. Free event. See pictures that I've taken of Dinosaur Caves Park. Bring your own blankets or lawn chairs. Food available for purchase at 6PM. Address: 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

September 18, 2022 (Sun) - 2022 Summer Concert Series at Heritage Square Park in Arroyo Grande from 1PM - 3PM. Free outdoor event. Food, beer and wine available for purchase. Bring your own chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Learn more about Arroyo Grande. Address: 201 Nelson St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

September 23 - 24, 2022 (Fri & Sat) - Arroyo Grande Valley's 83rd Harvest Festival & Parade. Live music, Rotary fish fry, baking contest, local vendors, bouncy houses and kids games. Address: Multiple Locations in Arroyo Grande (AG) Village: Oolohan Alley, Heritage Square Park & AG Pavilion and more.

Though September 2022 - Sensorio (famous night lights) in Paso Robles is open for weekends. Weather permitting only as it's all outdoors.

This is a high ticketed event. See my video clip of my personal Sensorio experience on IG.

October 1 - 31, 2022 - View month long display of scarecrows lining the streets of Cambria's East and West Villages, Moonstone Beach and San Simeon of San Luis Obispo County.

October 15 & 16, 2022 - 76th Annual Pismo Beach Clam Festival. Wonderful parade of local organizations, vendors and food trucks as well as a Kids Zone at the Pismo Promenade. Sample local chowders with the Clam Chowder Cook-Off and enjoy live music all weekend long. Address for GPS: 101 Stimson Ave, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

October 22, 2022 (Sat) - Get your best costume ready and bring the entire family out to a not-too-scary evening at Zoo Boo from 5PM - 8:30PM at Charles Paddock Zoo! I went to this Zoo Boo event! See my video reel from our experience. Address: 9100 Morro Rd., Atascadero, CA 93422 

October 22, 2022 (Sat) - Pumpkins in the Park at Dinosaur Caves Park in Pismo Beach. Free event (Time TBD). Address: 2701 Price St., Pismo Beach, CA 93449 

October 28, 2022 (Fri) - Halloween Bash Dana Adobe in Nipomo (Times TBD). Show off your awesome costumes in their costume parade, trunk or treat at all the trunks, then grab some popcorn and stay for the movie!! Grab your ghouls and goblins for a spooktackular good time. Parking fee per car. Address: 671 S Oakglen Ave., Nipomo, CA 93444 

October 29, 2022 (Sat) - Halloween Carnival and Haunted Maze at Elm Street Park in Arroyo Grande from 4:30PM - 7:30PM. This is a ticketed event by the City of Arroyo Grande. It is not free. Address: 1221 Ash St., Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

October 31, 2022 (Mon) - Trick or Treat on Entrada Avenue in Atascadero from 4PM - 6PM. People and pets of all ages are welcome to come and enjoy family, children, hay ride and pet costume contests. Trick or Treating! Event is free to attend and is sponsored by Downtown Atascadero's Business Improvement District and the City of Atascadero.

November 11, 2022 (Fri) - Happy Veteran's Day! See a list of free meals for your veterans throughout San Luis Obispo County.

November 18 - November 20, 2022 - Atascadero Fall Festival 2022 at Sunken Gardens. This is a 3 day family-friendly event with free admission. Check out carnival rides and games. Schedule: Friday, Nov 18th: 4PM - 10PM, Saturday, Nov 19th: 12PM - 10PM and Sunday, Nov 20th: 12PM - 10PM. Address: 6505 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422 

December 2, 2022 (Fri) - Holiday Harmony at Pismo Beach Pier (Times TBD). There will be kids activities: cookie decorating, bounce houses and Santa! See my instagram video clip of my walk on the Pismo Beach Pier. Address to pier for GPS: 600 Cypress St., Pismo Beach, CA 93449

December 2, 2022 (Fri) - Annual Light Up at the Downtown Holiday Celebration from 5:30PM - 8PM in Sunken Gardens in Atascadero. Beginning at 5:30 pm, you can sip and shop with the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce’s ever-popular Art, Wine & Brew Tour! At 6 pm, gather in the Sunken Gardens area in front of Historic City Hall as our City officials and the community counts down to the lighting of our beautiful building. Soon after the lights come on, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be arriving via an antique Model-A fire truck to the tune of “Here Comes Santa Claus.” You will then be invited to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole entrance located at the back of City Hall that faces Atascadero Middle School. Address: 6505 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422

December 9, 2022 (Fri) - Winter Wonderland in downtown Atascadero from 5PM - 9PM. Free event. Atascadero’s Sunken Gardens and the entire downtown will be transformed into a magical snowy paradise! 75 Tons of snow make up will offer larger snow pile play areas and will help make way for a massive snow slide built. This year’s snow themed events include a lot of kids' activities and Santa and Mrs. Claus! Address: 6505 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA, 93422 

December 18, 2022 (Sun) - Holiday Magic at Charles Paddock Zoo from 10AM - 1PM. Admission is $10 for 13 years old and older, $8 for ages 3 and 4 years old and $9 for seniors 65 and older. Children 2 years old and and younger are free. Address: 9100 Morro Rd., Atascadero, CA 93422

~Note by SanLuisObispoMom.com: As I find more events, I'll add it to this growing list above. Come back to check for any new events that I've found.

Ongoing - Every 2nd Saturday of every month, San Luis Obispo Museum of Art has a free monthly family art activity for kids from 11AM - 1PM. Free and open to the public. Address: The lawn outside SLOMA’s Mission Plaza double doors - 1010 Broad St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Year Round - See the free story time schedule for libraries in the San Luis Obispo area.

Free Things To Do in SLO

Monarch Butterfly Grove

You'll find Monarch butterflies around here seasonally from late October - February (sometimes longer) but this state park is always open and free with occasional special events! The grove is located between Grover Beach and Pismo Beach and you park off the road. There are no designated parking areas. Once you walk around the grove, if you are up for it, you can actually head to the beach continuing on the trail towards the back! The trail heading towards the south side is beautiful. See pictures and blog of the Monarch Butterfly Grove and the Meadow Trail that connects to it. Address: 400 S Dolliver St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449



Bubblegum Alley

Always free to explore in downtown SLO! Address: 733 Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401


Avila-Pismo Beach Trolley

This FREE trolley service connects you from the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets all the way to Port San Luis via Avila Beach, Avila Valley (Avila Barn, Bob Jones Bike Trail, Avila Hot Springs Resort, and KOA campground) and various resort hotels in Shell Beach and Pismo Beach. Connections from the trolley are available at the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets for SCT (Route 21 and Route 24) and RTA (Route 10). The trolley runs in 3 seasons with varying schedules. Regular schedule runs Friday, Saturday, Sunday. to see more info, go to the Avila-Pismo Beach Trolley website.

Elephant Seals in San Simeon

Come see the elephant seals in their natural habitat in San Simeon! Also part of SLO County and located close to Hearst Castle, any visitor can park near designated parking areas near the beach to see the elephant seals. Of course there's no admission because you're viewing them in their natural home. Amazingly, you can get close to them without them being bothered by it (but not too close!) and they seem to be so used to human visitors. There's a boardwalk and viewing area. Address: 250 San Simeon Ave, San Simeon, CA 93452. See more elephant seal pictures and a full review of San Simeon.

Playgrounds for Kids in SLO County

Mitchell Park

Located in downtown San Luis Obispo is Mitchell Park with a large playground, picnic tables and public restrooms. Address: 1400 Osos St, San Luis Obispo, CA 9340

Meadow Park
Not too far from the famous Madonna Inn hotel is a park with a playground and a trail called Meadow Park. With a lot of green grass area, families can come here and enjoy a picnic on a nice day out. Address: 2333 Meadow St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Dinosaurs Caves Park
Located in Pismo Beach is the beautiful Dinosaurs Cave Park with a playground. Right on the edge of the park are the cliffs with amazing views of the ocean! You can't miss a visit here. Like with any public parks, it is free to come here and the views are world class. To see more pictures of Dinosaurs Caves Park and the cliff view there, go to: this blog entry: Dinosaur Caves Park Cliff pictures. Address: 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Spyglass Park
Spyglass Park is right by the bluffs too but small than Dinosaur Cave Park. Surrounded by homes, this park is a bit more private with a smaller parking lot and playground but still open to the public with a restroom. You'll find owners walking their pets here and people sitting on one of the benches and taking in the beautiful ocean view. See pictures of the ocean taken at Spyglass Park. Address: Spyglass Dr, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Avila Beach Park
With a pirate theme, right by the beach and close to shopping, tourists with kids and local families come here for swings, slides and sand fun! See pictures of the Avila Beach pier and beach. Address: 50 San Juan St, Avila Beach, CA 93424

Chumash Park 
Located in Pismo Beach is Chumash Park that has a large playground with a soft ground. There's also a basketball court, trail and clean private bathrooms. Address: 156 Ventana Dr., Pismo Beach, CA 93401

Del Mar Park
Del Mar Park is a lush nine-acre park featuring an outdoor basketball court, amphitheater, roller hockey rink, children’s play area, horseshoe pits, and two great barbecue and picnic areas.  Address: Island Street & Panorama Drive, Morro Bay, CA, 93442


Hero Park

Hero Park is located in Grover Beach/Arroyo Grande area and has a playground for the smaller kids. It's located in a quiet residential area. Address: 1600 Farroll Rd, Grover Beach, CA 93433


Atascadero Lake Park

Located in Atascadero and next to the Charles Paddock Zoo is a large green park with a playground and a nice lake. The playground makes it very convenient for the kids after the zoo. They don't sell food at the zoo so you can bring a picnic here at this park (right outside the zoo) and enjoy a little a break. Address for GPS: 9100 Morro Rd, Atascadero, CA 93422


City of Arroyo Grande Parks & Recreation Park

Also known as Elm Street Dog Park, it has both a playground and dog park. There is also a Park & Recreation building there that has preschools and special programs for kids. Address:1221 Ash St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Rancho Grande Playground and Park in Arroyo Grande

Rancho Grande Park is one of the bigger parks in San Luis Obispo county that is very kid-friendly. Address: 500 James Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Oceano Playground Park
This large playground is only 2 blocks from Oceano Beach with a lot of green grass area! Address: 1330 Dewey Dr, Oceano, CA 93445

Popular Beaches to Explore in San Luis Obispo County

San Luis Obispo is lucky to have beautiful and many kid-friendly beaches including: Avila Beach, Morro Bay, Grover Beach and Pismo Beach. Here are a few suggested activities to do by beach.

Avila Beach

One of the best well-kept beaches, this beach town covers the bases for wine enthusiasts and families. They have swings right on the sand of the beach, a small pier, a full playground nearby and many restaurants along the beach. During the spring (mid-April) through summer months, they have a seasonal Avila beach farmer's market on Fridays from 4pm - 8pm. You can also take advantage of their free beach trolley during these busy months from Pismo Beach Outlets to many stops at Avila Beach, including First Street, near the farmers market. See pictures of the Avila Beach farmer's market and Avila Beach pier.

Avila Valley Barn
Free to park and free to visit the barn animals here!
 
Read more details about Avila Valley Barn! Address of Avila Valley Barn: 560 Avila Beach Dr, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

San Luis (SLO) Lighthouse
Go visit the Point San Luis (SLO) Lighthouse located on Avila Beach. This lighthouse is owned by Diablo Canyon Power Plant and runs tours on Wednesday and Saturdays year round for different times. There are more tour times during busy seasons. Costs are different for adults and children. Proceeds go towards their restoration efforts. Address: 1 Lighthouse Rd, Avila Beach, CA 93424
This aquarium is very, very small so if you're on a budget, I would consider skipping this one. However, it's right by the playground in Avila Beach so it is tempting to visit. Prices for admission is different for adults and children, and free for children 2 and under. If you have an EBT card, the admission price is significantly less. They have seasonal camps for kids throughout the year. See a list of summer camps for kids throughout San Luis Obispo County.

To see more pictures of Central Coast Aquarium taken by SanLuisObispoMom.com, click here.
Address: 50 San Juan St., Avila Beach, CA93424

Avila Beach PIER
You can find whales coming through here which makes Avila Beach so special. The Whale Trail sign is located at the entrance to Avila Beach Pier just off Front Street, adjacent to unique shops, tasting rooms, charming boutique hotels, vacation rentals and restaurants. The sign is still accessible for all to enjoy although the majority of the Avila Beach Pier is currently closed for repairs.
Address: Pier 3 Port San Luis, Avila Beach, CA 93424

Additionally, you can go on another pier at Avila Beach that is further down from the main road called Port San Luis Pier. This pier is my favorite of all the piers at Avila Beach.

Pismo Beach

The most famous SLO beach is Pismo Beach and attracts the majority of the tourists who come to this area. Come to the Pismo Beach Pier to take in some beautiful ocean views. 


With clean beaches, a lot of shops and restaurants, many tourists, local families and surfers come to Pismo Beach for a nice day out. The boardwalk is also a nice stroll along the beach in Pismo Beach.

Oceano Dunes is only 3 miles south of Pismo Beach


HotShots Billiards & Family Entertainment at Pismo Beach

Don't let the word Billiards throw you off from coming here with your kids! They have a lot of arcade games in the back with some centered on little ones! You can buy food or draft beer while the kids have some fun. 

It's very close to the Pismo Beach Pier. You can park in the beach parking lot there and walk here. We came here with the little ones around 8pm and it is still family-friendly. There is never an admission fee to enter the game area. Bring your quarters. Otherwise, bring cash to dispense some quarters here. Address: 250 Pomeroy Ave, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Find a Hotel in Pismo Beach.

Grover Beach

The smallest San Luis Obispo beach among the four, Grover Beach is a local quaint beach area. This place is more like a local beach than a tourist beach but of course, visitors are always welcome. The town is inviting with a lot of restaurant options. 

Grover Beach and Sand Dunes Beach Entry
There is entry to the beach from Grover Beach via Grand Ave. Limited vehicles are allowed to park pass the check point or toll road because this is where you can enter your 4x4, ATVs and trucks on the beach!

Yes, that's allowed in this area of town! If you are planning on spending a long time at the beach here, walk to this entry point by parking down the intersection where there is public parking available, behind Fin's Restaurant. See more beach pictures of Grover Beach by SanLuisObispoMom.com

Grover Beach Playground on 16th Street
About 16 blocks from the ocean is a residential playground that is open to the public in Grover Beach! With soft grounds, swings, slides and picnic tables, kids can roam freely in a quiet area. Address: S 16th Street & Mentone Avenue, Grover Beach, CA 93433

Cayucos

Located in the Northern part of San Luis Obispo County, this small beach town has a pier and a playground on the sand of the beach all centrally located side by side. There are many restaurants for you to dine at and the vibe is very relaxing. This town neighbors Cambria, another beautiful beach town in San Luis Obispo (SLO) County. 

Morro Bay

As one of the more popular beaches for families, Morro Bay also has a lot of activities family can enjoy. With trails, surreys and kayaks for rent, many tourists come here to enjoy some outdoor activity as well as some water fun.

Check out the weekly farmer's market here as well. Link to Morro Bay's SLO farmer's market info and other markets in SLO.

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. See more photos of Morro Rock. GPS Address: 1300 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA, 93442

Sea Otters
See the Sea Otters for free right at the T-Pier on the bay! It's of course free to see them because this is their natural habitat! You'll see baby sea otters on the mommies. It's a cute sight to see and worth the drive coming here.

Morro Bay Trolley
Only operating seasonally and links the North Main Street and Downtown Business Districts, Embarcadero, and State Parks. Cost is only $1 per ride. Children under 5 ride free. They may have discontinued this, post-pandemic.


Paso Robles

Paso Robles, California is famous for their wineries and lucky for SLO, it is located within San Luis Obispo county. From award wining wines from dozens of wineries all over Paso Robles, it is a haven for wine enthusiasts. There are also a lot of kid-friendly things to do in this special town. Read about our visit to the famous Justin's tasting room and Bianchi Winery, both renowned wineries in Paso Robles.

Paso Robles Children's Museum

The Paso Robles Children's museum is a two story museum located in the downtown area of Paso Robles. It may be a bit intimidating for the smaller toddlers but it's still a great place for the kids if you're nearby. It is much smaller than the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum so if you can pick and don't mind driving, between the 2, I'd recommend going to the San Luis Obispo one. Address: 623 13th St,Paso Robles, California 93446


The Ravine Waterpark (only open during summer season)

Open only during the hot summer months, The Ravine Waterpark is a great size for the family. Parking is free so you only pay for admission. On really busy days, the parking lot can get full so come early. You can also rent cabanas here. See hotels closest to The Ravine Waterpark in Paso Robles. See a list of hotels close to Ravine Waterpark in Paso Robles.

They offer active-duty military discount with valid military ID. Address: 2301 Airport Rd., Paso Robles, California 93446

California Mid-State Fair

Only 12 days during July, the California Mid-State Fair takes place at Paso Robles Event Center. Many famous singers come and perform! With carnival rides, hundreds of vendors and great eats, it's fun for the whole family. Address: 2198 Riverside Ave., Paso Robles, CA 93446


Check out the blog section to read about our most recent visit or activity in SLO County. 

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Free Story Time 


Story times are great for little ones to get a chance to listen to stories with other little ones as well. They are always free at libraries and book stores like Barnes & Noble.


San Luis Obispo County Library Story Times

Story times at the public libraries are always free and great for the kids. They are usually located in the kid's section that has toys and computers for the kids to use. To see all story times at libraries all over the San Luis Obispo county area, go to the library story time page. They are always free.

Barnes & Noble Bookstore Story Times

On Saturdays at 11AM, Barnes & Noble usually does a free story time for children in the Children's area. They are themed story telling according to the season. The kids' area is located on the second floor so take the steps or elevator up! Address: 894 Marsh St Bldg G, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 

SLO Farmers Markets (ongoing weekly as weather permits)

San Luis Obispo Farmers Market in Downtown
San Luis Obispo Farmers Market in downtown takes place every Thursday from 6PM - 9PM (weather permitting and excluding major holidays) on Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 between Nipomo and Osos. Seasonally, Chorro Street and Broad Street may also be in use.

San Luis Obispo Market at Address: 325 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (World Market/Embassy Suites parking lot) take place on Saturday mornings from 8AM - 10:45AM.

Morro Bay Farmers Market at Spencer’s Fresh Markets parking lot Address: 2650 Main St., Morro Bay, CA 93442 takes place on Thursday afternoons takes place from 2PM - 4:30PM.

Pismo Beach Farmers Market at Pismo Beach Pier Address: Pomeroy and Hinds Ave., Pismo Beach, CA 93440 every Wednesday from 4PM - 7PM. 

Arroyo Grande Village Farmers Market in old downtown Arroyo Grande at Address:  193 Olohan Alley, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 takes place on Saturday Afternoons from noon - 2:30PM. 

Arroyo Grande Smart & Final Parking Lot Farmers Market at Smart & Final parking lot at address:  1464 East Grand Avenue, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 takes place on Wednesday mornings from 8:30AM - 11AM. 

Nipomo Swap Meet & Flea Market takes place every Sunday from 6AM - 6PM, weather permitting. They also have train rides called Choo Choo Safari inside the vicinity! It's great for kids! You pay a car entry fee to enter the Swap Meet & Flea Market to park. They have fresh produce, awesome Mexican food options all around the area and good yard sale type finds. Address: 263 N Frontage Rd, Nipomo, CA 93444

Attractions

San Luis Obispo Children's Museum

Prices: $8 for adults & children, $5 for seniors 60+, $7 for military members and children 2 and under are free. Every once in awhile, they would have "Moonlight Hours" where anyone can come for free between 5pm - 8pm. Look out for that. See more pictures from our visit to San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. Address: 1010 Nipomo St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Paso Robles Children's Museum

Located in the northern part of San Luis Obispo County is the Paso Robles Children's Museum. It's significantly smaller than the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum but the little ones will still enjoy it. It's inside a 2 story building in downtown Paso Robles, California and there are many restaurants within walking distance. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays but open on the other 5 days. Adult tickets are $8, children tickets for ages 1 - 13 are $7 and grandparent tickets are $5. They close at 4pm so make sure you plan your day accordingly. Address: 623 13th St,Paso Robles, California 93446

Charles Paddock Zoo

Admission Prices are: $10 for ages 13 and older, $8 for ages 5 - 12, $5 for ages 3 - 4 and Free for children 2 and under. See more pictures of Charles Paddock Zoo taken by SanLuisObispoMom.com. They also have a senior price at $9 if you're 65 and older. Charles Paddock Zoo Address: 9305 Pismo Ave., 
Atascadero, CA 93422

Hearst Castle

SLO County is home to the famous Hearst Castle! Now as a museum, the castle is open every day for the public. Ticket prices are more for adults compared to kids' prices but it's free for children under 5. Hearst Castle Address: 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452. See more pictures and a full review of Hearst Castle from SanLuisObispoMom.com. 

San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

This is a 2 story museum that's great for kids and any train enthusiasts! Children 3 and under are always free here. Regular adult admission is only $5 and $3 for children ages 4 - 15 years old. They are opening for limited hours due to the pandemic. They have special events throughout the year. Address: 1940 Santa Barbara Ave, San Luis Obispo, California 93401

The Ravine Waterpark

Located in Paso Robles, this Waterpark is only opened during the summer time from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Prices are Regular $34.99, Junior $26.99, Senior $19.99 and Children under 2 are free. They also sell season passes. Address: 2301 Airport Rd., Paso Robles, California 93446. Find hotels closest to Ravine Water Park.

Museum of Natural History - Morro Bay

I chaperoned for a field trip at Museum of Natural History in Morro Bay and after visiting here, this place is now my favorite museum for all of SLO County! The museum is small but still educational. You can see a wonderful view of Morro Rock. There are walking trails around it with phenomenal views. The museum is free for children who are 17 years old and under! Price for adults is only $3 each. Here's a picture that I took looking out of the window with the view of Morro Rock while inside of the Museum of Natural History.

Morro Bay's Morro Rock is one of the more famous landmarks of San Luis Obispo County. Read my blog entry about Morro Bay. Address of Museum of Natural History in Morro Bay: 20 State Park Road, Morro Bay, CA 93442

Birthday Party Ideas

Pacific Flips Gymnastics Birthday Party

Pacific Flips has two locations: Grover Beach and Santa Maria. We've planned a birthday party for our child at the Grover beach location and had an excellent experience. Their birthday packages are either for 90 minutes or 2 hours. Parents are welcome to come watch.
They set up 2 tables ahead of time per your reservation and you just bring your decoraton. For more pictures and details, read about our detailed experience in this Pacific Flips Birthday blog entry.

Central Coast Aquarium Birthday 

For a  2 hour slot, you can have a birthday party for your child at the Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach. They host birthday parties on Saturdays and Sundays.  Their minimum birthday packages start at $250 and include 12 children for that price (additional cost for more kids).
To see more pictures of the aquarium by reading our review blog entry of Central Coast Aquarium. 

Doc Burnstein's Ice Cream Lab in Arroyo Grande

Located in the Southern part of SLO County in Arroyo Grande is a neat ice cream shop with a private party room in the back. If you host a party here, they have an organized timed slot with a dedicated host included. Doc Burnstein's Ice Cream Lab Address: 114 W Branch St, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 

Go to the SLO family-friendly restaurants section to see restaurants with a play area. These places are great options for birthday parties.