Situated amidst the picturesque vineyards of California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles is a charming destination known for its fine wineries and natural hot springs.
This tranquil town combines modern comforts with rustic appeal, offering visitors the chance to taste exquisite wines, explore a historic downtown filled with unique shops and restaurants, and experience the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Read on for your ultimate travel guide for things to do, wineries to discover, adventures to explore and where to eat in Paso Robles!
Top Things To Do in Paso Robles
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, an outdoor adventurer, or a foodie, Paso Robles has more to offer than most travelers expect.
Read on for ideas of things to discover and hidden gems in Paso Robles!
Experience the Field of Lights at Sensorio at Dusk
“Field of Light at Sensorio,” in Paso Robles, California, is an immersive outdoor art installation created by internationally-acclaimed artist Bruce Munro.
The Sensorio exhibit, consisting of over 58,800 stemmed spheres lit by fiber optics, covers 15 acres of Sensorio’s undulating landscape.
As darkness falls, these spheres illuminate the landscape in an array of colors, creating a dazzling display that has been likened to a field of blooming flowers under a starlit sky.
The immersive experience is a blend of technology, art, and the natural world, providing a serene environment for reflection and tranquility. The “Field of Light at Sensorio” has attracted visitors from around the world and is considered a must-see spectacle, particularly for those visiting the Paso Robles wine region.
Insider tip: Go at dusk. When the sun has just set, you’ll have a bit of light in the sky and it’s perfect for getting a few photos before it’s completely dark. Once you snap those photos (with non professional cameras only), you can put your technology away and just enjoy the beautiful views while strolling through the fields.
Take A Ride Through the Wineries in a Side Car with Third Wheel Tours
Consider an unconventional and unique way to see a winery – in a side car!
We took a tour with Third Wheel Tours at Cass Winery. Cass is a renowned winery in the region, known for its beautiful vineyards and exquisite wines.
What’s the Side Car Tour Like?
Our host, Jaydy, is an incredibly knowledgeable and gave us a thrilling ride through the vineyards.
But it’s not just a ride.
Beyond the fun ride, you can expect to learn about the winery and wine production at Cass before making a stop at Camp Cass where well, read on for that adventure…
Camp Cass at Cass Winery
Get ready for both the expected and unexpected! A wine tasting amongst the vineyards with the option to learn archery!
At Camp Cass, Camp Counselor Chase helped us to shoot a bow and arrow and we had a fun afternoon of (trying to) hit targets while drinking Cass Wine.
Finish Your Side Car Tour with Lunch at Cass Winery
After your tour, don’t miss a wine tasting and lunch at Cass Winery.
Guests can indulge in lunch at the winery, with a menu that highlights the flavors of the region. Whether it’s the exquisite Caesar salad topped with chicken, or the fresh, seasonal summer salad, each dish is prepared with care and designed to enhance your wine tasting journey.
Besides salads, the winery is also noted for its beautiful pizza oven, providing an array of artisanal pizzas that serve as a delightful accompaniment to their wines.
Want to see the full video of this experience? See this experience and more helpful tips in the full video below!
Discover Amazing Wine at Paso Robles Wineries
Paso Robles wine region has over 200 wineries, to discover. With a rich and diverse array of wine styles, predominantly known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Rhone blends, and Zinfandel, each winery, guarantees an exceptional experience — from wine tastings nestled amidst verdant vineyards to tours that unveil the art and science behind the winemaking process.
There were MANY wineries I visited, but below are the ones I recommend…
Explore JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery Beyond the Obvious
Known for it’s world-class wines and Michelin star restaurant, JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery, is renowned for its commitment to traditional viticultural methods paired with an innovative approach to winemaking, which has positioned it as a stalwart in the Paso Robles wine region.
Their estate’s crown jewel, the celebrated Bordeaux-style blend, “Isosceles”, has achieved international acclaim and perfectly illustrates JUSTIN’s dedication to quality.
As you approach the winery, nestled in the picturesque hills of Paso Robles, you’ll be struck by its fusion of old-world charm and modern elegance. The scenic drive through rolling vineyards alone is worth the trip, setting the stage for an unforgettable wine tasting experience.
Upon arrival, you have a variety of tasting options to choose from. The JUSTIN Signature Tasting offers a well-rounded experience with a selection of their current-release wines. For those interested in a more immersive experience, consider the Estate Tasting. Here, you’ll get a chance to taste a range of exclusive, small-production wines while learning more about their vineyard practices and winemaking techniques.
Adventure at JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery by Bicycle
One of the most unique ways to visit JUSTIN is via a bike tour with Vine Cycle!
On this tour you can expect more than just a bike ride. Equipped with top of the line electric bikes (translation: zero effort on your end), you can cycle to parts of the vineyard only accessible by those on this tour.
This includes Justin’s chateau and and exclusive tastings in the Cave as well as scenic points that a normal visitor is unable to access.
One last unique thing about this bike tour: you’re not just biking. You’re learning about the history, culture and process of wine making at JUSTIN. Your tour guide is a sommelier and you’ll also have Vine Cycle tour guides helping you to stay safe and navigate the winery.
An absolute MUST when visiting Paso Robles!
Quick tip!
When booking tours in Paso Robles, it’s important to book ones with top traveler reviews and are easily refundable if travel plans change.
Dine at JUSTIN
When you’ve finished your tasting, head to their on-site restaurant, The Restaurant at JUSTIN. The culinary team’s talent is evident in their mouthwatering menu, which offers seasonal, locally-sourced dishes thoughtfully designed to complement their wines. The view from the restaurant, overlooking the beautiful vineyards, is the cherry on top of a delectable dining experience.
The JUSTIN Vineyards and Winery experience is as robust as its Cabernet, offering visitors a wealth of insight into the world of winemaking and viticulture. A visit to this Paso Robles institution offers far more than a typical tasting room stop — it’s a journey through the life cycle of wine from vine to bottle, promising an experience that is as enlightening as it is enjoyable.
Get the Best Paso Robles Views and Wine Tasting at Calcareous Winery
Set atop one of the highest limestone plateaus on Paso Robles’ westside, Calcareous Vineyard offers a wine tasting experience that is as breathtaking as it is memorable. The winery has a welcoming tasting room with large picture windows that capture panoramic views of the valley and sprawling vineyards. Here, you can sample an array of wines that beautifully express the rich diversity of the Paso Robles region.
Their offerings range from robust Cabernet Sauvignons and Zinfandels to nuanced and complex white Rhone varietals, all well-balanced with the unique mineral qualities imparted by the calcareous soil. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to guide you through your tasting, enriching your understanding of their wines and the terroir.
When it’s time to eat, the winery’s lunch is a must. The restaurant provides a menu that is thoughtfully crafted, with each dish designed to complement the winery’s offerings.
From farm-to-table cheese and charcuterie boards to a selection of gourmet sandwiches and salads, each item is made with locally-sourced, fresh ingredients.
Come on a sunny day to enjoy some of the best views in Paso Robles with the best wine!
Explore Tin City with Hubba Wines
Tin City is a vibrant, artisan enclave nestled in Paso Robles, California’s renowned wine country. An emerging hub for innovation, it’s home to a collection of passionate winemakers, brewers, and distillers who are redefining the region’s craft beverage scene.
Here you’ll find HUBBA Wines, a small winery with a big heart.
Focusing primarily on Rhône varietals, HUBBA embodies the inventive spirit of this vibrant artisan enclave. Their wines are produced in small batches, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and a strong expression of the unique Paso Robles terroir.
The tasting room offers an intimate, laid-back atmosphere where visitors can explore their diverse offerings and learn about the passion and craft behind each bottle. HUBBA Wines offers a refreshing, unpretentious approach to winemaking, making it a standout destination in Paso Robles’ thriving wine scene.
The Allegretto Wine Tasting Room
You don’t have to stay at Allegretto Vineyard Resort to enjoy the tasting room (but you should stay here!).
Allegretto Vineyard Resort, in the heart of Paso Robles wine country, offers a unique and captivating wine tasting experience.
Nestled amidst 20 acres of vineyards and gardens, the resort’s own tasting room presents a collection of carefully crafted wines that embody the distinctive terroir of the region. Tastings at Allegretto offer a diverse portfolio, including rich Cabernet Sauvignons, refreshing white Rhône varietals, and intriguing blends.
If Sheila is there, she’s a MUST as your waitress and wine guide.
The knowledgeable and friendly staff will guide you through their wines in a beautiful indoor or outdoor wine tasting experience. They have the option for cheese (or cheese and charcuterie).
Expect a tasting of five wines and learn more about Allegretto’s wine production. Afterwards, take a stroll through their property and through the vineyards just behind the resort!
An Intimate Mom and Pop Experience at Thatcher Winery
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Paso Robles, Thatcher Winery offers a wine tasting experience that combines classic elegance with a sense of rustic charm.
What used to be a horse and breeding ranch, Thatcher Winery is renowned for its commitment to creating high-quality, small-production wines using sustainable farming practices.
A visit to their tasting room provides an opportunity to explore these distinct wines, while knowledgeable staff offer insights into their unique winemaking process and the characteristics of each pour.
The Thatcher Winery experience is about more than just the wine, though. Their tastings are conducted in a beautiful, century-old English-style barn, providing a setting that’s both charming and relaxing.
Outside, visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills of the Paso Robles countryside.
There are tasting experiences inside their tasting room, outside in their open seating area, or more exclusive experiences in the barn. A must when in Paso Robles!
Where to Eat in Paso Robles
Paso Robles is world renowned for it’s wine and also it’s food. There is an endless number of options of where to eat from Michelin Star restaurants like the Restaurant at JUSTIN, to conveniently located restaurants side by side in Downtown, and there are many hidden gems to be discovered.
One of my favorite ways to discover where the locals go is by playing pickleball pick up games during open play at Centennial Park. You have an opportunity (whether you are a beginner or advanced player) to mix in with the local residents and chat with them while playing or between games.
For more info on how to play pickleball in Paso Robles, read the full blog post here or check out the full youtube video here.
Read on for the restaurants I loved and recommend (and have left me planning my return trip to Paso Robles)…
Discover More Than Just a Food Hall at Paso Market Walk
Paso Market Walk, located a few blocks from Downtown Paso Robles, is a public market with an array of boutique shops and food stalls, each unique and locally-owned.
The Market offers a curated selection of artisanal goods from freshly baked bread to farm-fresh produce, high-quality meats, and gourmet cheeses.
Of my favorite spots within the market is Momotaro and their amazing ramen.
Momotaro Ramen at Paso Market Walk serves authentic Japanese cuisine. It’s particularly renowned for its Ramen dishes, featuring perfectly cooked noodles swimming in rich, flavorful broths, accompanied by a variety of traditional toppings.
Take a seat at the bar and order their traditional Momotaro ramen with a rich broth and delicious chewy noodles.
Also within the market you’ll find live music and events. Many people sit outside enjoying their food.
One thing not to miss, is the community garden adjacent to (but still part of) the Paso Market Walk. Here you’ll find the restaurant Finca.
Finca is a unique Mexican restaurant with a rich culinary fusion, thanks to its co-owners, father and son duo Patrick and Diego.
Patrick brings his experience from working in renowned French restaurants, such as Bouchon with Thomas Keller, and infuses it with the Mexican and California flavors Diego was raised on.
Their menu features unique and rotating dishes, like the scallop ceviche with a touch of dill, which provides a fresh take on traditional ceviche. You’ll also find an impressive selection of tacos with exceptional flavors, from pork belly to duck and Diego’s favorite shrimp taco.
Have a seat inside or outside, Finca has it’s own standalone restaurant within the Paso Market Walk!
Take a Stroll Down the Alley to Jeffrey’s BBQ
Located in the heart of downtown Paso Robles, but hidden within Norma’s Alley, you’ll find a dog-friendly outdoor restaurant serving up delicious bbq at Jeffrey’s.
Guests order at the counter before settling down in the comfortable outdoor seating area warmed by heat lamps and centered around a cozy fire pit.
Their standout offering, the Barbecue Sampler, serves two, featuring pulled pork, pulled chicken, and chopped brisket, paired with a variety of sides such as beans, slaw, and house pickles.
Not to be overlooked are the half pint of mac and cheese and crunchy brussels sprouts.
Complementing the food is an excellent wine and cocktail list, including Jeffrey’s own red wine, and selections from local wineries like the female-owned Desperada.
In essence, Jeffrey’s BBQ offers a relaxed dining experience, rich barbecue fare, and a thoughtful selection of drinks, making it a must-visit hotspot in Paso Robles.
Authentic Italian Cuisine at Etto is Where the Locals Go
Located in Tin City, you’ll find Etto, a husband and wife owned Italian Pasta bar where (literally) all the locals go.
You’ll find pastas under $20 a plate (they purposely try to make them affordable) prepared with well sourced ingredients.
Etto Pasta Bar is an extension of Etto Pastificio. Beyond the excellent handmade pastas, you’ll also find meatier dishes (steaks and 36 hour brined chicken) as well as a beautiful dessert offering.
Etto Pasta Bar’s menu is a testament to its commitment to locally sourced ingredients, with dishes that highlight the bounties of the Central Coast region.
Where to Stay in Paso Robles
Paso Robles, offers several excellent accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to, glamping to charming bed and breakfasts.
I’ve stayed in Paso Robles on three different occasions and each provided a totally different experience. Read on for ideas of where to stay!
Indulge in Art and Luxury at Allegretto Wine Resort
The Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles is an idyllic wine country destination that exemplifies the beauty of California’s Central Coast.
Set among 20 acres of vineyards, gardens, and olive orchards, this world-class resort offers an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of a Tuscan villa.
Each aspect of the resort has been carefully designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing experience. Its facilities include spacious rooms and suites, a state-of-the-art wellness spa, a cabana-lined pool, and a fine-dining restaurant that offers gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
More than just a place to stay, Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a destination that immerses guests in the culture and charm of Paso Robles wine country.
The resort offers a variety of curated experiences such as wine and food pairings, vineyard tours, and cooking classes, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the local viticulture and cuisine.
Luxury Glamping and RV Resort at Cava Robles
Cava Robles RV Resort, is more than just an RV park. It redefines luxury camping with its blend of natural beauty and modern comforts.
Offering a unique RV experience and furnished cottages, the amenities of Cava Robles is what sets it apart.
The resort boasts a range of amenities including pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, a clubhouse, and a playground.
Furthermore, its on-site bistro and wine bar present an opportunity to savor local food and wine without leaving the resort.
Through a variety of onsite activities and close proximity to local wineries, hiking trails, and historic sites, Cava Robles RV Resort truly captures the spirit of the Paso Robles region.
Want to learn more? Read the full blog post by clicking here or check out the full video below!
Other Places to Stay in Paso Robles
Want more ideas? Paso Robles has options from home rentals to luxury hotels to bed and breakfasts.
- Hotel Cheval: This boutique hotel is located in downtown Paso Robles. It offers an intimate setting with 16 rooms, a fireplace in every room, and a rooftop lounge.
- Paso Robles Inn: This historic hotel, located in the city’s downtown, offers comfortable rooms with views of the city park or the inn’s beautiful gardens. Some rooms even come with their own hot spring mineral spa tub.
- The Oaks Hotel & Suites: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, and a complimentary hot breakfast. It is also pet-friendly.
- SummerWood Inn: This upscale B&B is situated in a serene setting near a winery. Guests can enjoy the modern rooms and the beautiful scenery.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Paso Robles: For those seeking budget-friendly options, La Quinta Inn & Suites offers comfortable rooms and a central location, along with an outdoor pool and free breakfast.
- The Farmhouse Motel: This is a well-rated budget option, offering simple but clean and comfortable rooms, situated conveniently close to downtown Paso Robles.
Top Questions about Paso Robles
Read on for some of the top questions people ask when considering or planning their trip to Paso Robles!
Where is Paso Robles?
Paso Robles is located in the Central Coast region of California.
It sits approximately halfway between the cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco. The city is in San Luis Obispo County and is approximately 30 miles north of San Luis Obispo city itself.
Geographically, it is positioned in a region known for its rolling hills and vineyards, lending itself to a notable wine industry.
When is the Best Time to Visit Paso Robles?
The best time to visit Paso Robles largely depends on what you’re hoping to do during your trip. If your primary interest is wine tasting, the harvest season in fall (September to November) offers an exceptional experience, as this is when the wineries are most active, and many host special events.
Spring (March through May) is another great time to visit Paso Robles. The weather is pleasant, the vineyards are verdant, and it’s usually less crowded than in the fall. Many wineries release new wines during this time.
The summer months (June to August) can get quite hot, with temperatures often soaring above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but this is when the town’s calendar is packed with events, including the California Mid-State Fair.
Winter (December to February) tends to be the quietest season in Paso Robles, and while the weather can be cooler and rainier than other times of year, it’s also when you’ll find fewer crowds and potentially better deals on accommodations.
Regardless of when you decide to visit, Paso Robles offers something special in every season.
What’s Paso Robles Weather Like?
Paso Robles has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and cooler, wet winters.
During the summer months (June to August), Paso Robles can experience quite high temperatures, often reaching above 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), and sometimes even exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Despite the high daytime temperatures, the region cools down significantly in the evenings due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, which can provide a refreshing contrast.
In the winter months (December to February), daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-50s to low 60s degrees Fahrenheit (around 10-15 degrees Celsius), while nights can drop to around the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (1-5 degrees Celsius). This season also brings the majority of the area’s rainfall.
Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures and are generally very pleasant times of year to visit. Spring sees the landscape turn green and lush, while fall offers beautiful colors in the vineyards as the leaves change.
Is the Wine Good in Paso Robles?
Paso Robles received a major boost in reputation when, in 1990, a wine from the region won the coveted Pichon Lalande trophy for ‘World’s Best Blended Red Wine’ at the London International Wine and Spirit Competition. The wine was the 1985 vintage “Isosceles” by Justin Winery, a Bordeaux-style blend. This was a pivotal moment in establishing Paso Robles as a premier wine region capable of competing with the best in the world.
Paso Robles is especially known for its diversity in wine varietals, thanks to the unique microclimates and diverse soil types within its AVA (American Viticultural Area). The region produces a wide range of wines but is best known for its Rhône-style wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and increasingly, its Bordeaux-style blends.
The area’s hot days and cool nights provide an ideal environment for wine grapes to thrive, leading to distinctive, complex wines. Wineries in Paso Robles often take an artisanal, small-batch approach to winemaking, which results in high-quality, carefully crafted wines.
Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a connoisseur, you’re likely to find wines to suit your taste in Paso Robles. Visiting the local wineries for tastings also allows you to learn more about the winemaking process, meet the winemakers, and explore the beautiful vineyard landscapes.
Where Can I Play Pickleball in Paso Robles
There are several options of where to play pickleball in Paso Robles with the most popular (and best for travelers!) option being Centennial Park with the Paso Robles Pickleball Club.
Read the full blog post on where to play or checkout the video below!
Bottom Line
Paso Robles offers more than the typical traveler expects. With it’s world renowned wine and amazing restaurants, this laid back destination of cowboys and innovators has a welcoming vibe, but endless things to offer a weekend or week-long traveler.