Free & Cheap Things to Do in San Luis Obispo, CA

  • The list below includes 81 free or cheap things to do in or near San Luis Obispo, California, including 53 different types of inexpensive activities like Hiking Trails, Movie Theaters, Parks and Historic Buildings.
  • From California Polytechnic University to Bishop Peak, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in San Luis Obispo and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Atascadero and Paso Robles.
  • The list below includes 81 free or cheap things to do in or near San Luis Obispo, California, including 53 different types of inexpensive activities like Hiking Trails, Movie Theaters, Parks and Historic Buildings.
  • From California Polytechnic University to Bishop Peak, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in San Luis Obispo and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, Atascadero and Paso Robles.
Showing 1-10 of 128
0.0 Miles
Explore the city via an adventure combining the fun of a scavenger hunt with the information of a self-guided tour
1.1 Miles
93% 395 votes
Colleges & Universities 1 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, CA 93407 MoreLess Info
San Luis Obispo is home to the California Polytechnic University, a leading research university. 'Cal Poly' is most renowned for its engineering, physics and mathematics programs. It is also a center of computer science and innovation.
2.2 Miles
95% 491 votes
Hiking Trails Patricia Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 MoreLess Info
San Luis Obispo features many hiking trails. Bishop Peak is one of the most strenuous due to its steep incline. The trail is four miles long and takes physically fit hikers roughly two hours to complete its circular route.
12.2 Miles
97% 39 votes
Hiking Trails San Luis Obispo, CA MoreLess Info
Valencia Peak is one of the most striking mountains in the Montana de Oro State Park with the Valencia Peak Trail being the primary method for reaching the summit. It is actually the shortest and most direct route to the top.
0.8 Miles
100% 12 votes
Hiking Trails San Luis Obispo, CA MoreLess Info
There are two different trails available at the outdoor recreational area known as Cerro San Luis which is located just outside the city of San Luis Obispo. They are the Lemon Grove Loop and the 'M' Trail which features a large M created by the Mission Prep High School class of 1966.
5.2 Miles
84% 45 votes
Parks 2990 Dairy Creek Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 MoreLess Info
Besides the scenic beauty of the place, El Chorro Regional Park is also popular for its annual Renaissance Fair, the beautiful Botanical Gardens, many hiking trails, well-maintained campsites, nearby golf course, club houses and more.
1.9 Miles
78% 23 votes
Parks 504 Madonna Road, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 MoreLess Info
Facing a lake, Laguna Lake Park provides visitors with an area for fishing and feeding ducks. In addition to the lake, the park has amenities like a disc golf course, dog park, picnic area, playground, and more.
11.8 Miles
100% 5 votes
Hiking Trails San Luis Obispo, CA MoreLess Info
Islay Creek Trail is good for running or hiking. It is fairly flat, and it takes you along a canyon and a stream.
0.3 Miles
96% 395 votes
Farmers Markets Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo, CA MoreLess Info
The weekly Farmer's Market in San Luis Obispo, California is open on Thursday nights. Patrons enjoy live music as they browse for fresh produce, seafood and barbecued meats. The city health code strictly prohibits dogs from entering the market.
0.2 Miles
90% 29 votes
Historic Sites 1185 Pacific Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 MoreLess Info
Lovely gardens and historical spots comprise Dallidet Adobe and Gardens. Check the opening hours before paying a visit, as they can be erratic.
0.4 Miles
86% 49 votes
Historic Sites 696 Monterey St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 MoreLess Info
The History Center and Museum houses two galleries highlighting stories from San Luis Obispo county's past, a gift shop, and a 'Kid's Room' with child friendly activities. Docents are available.
Showing 1-10 of 128
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