Dates: October 3
Location: Hearst Castle

Visit the Hearst Castle® Visitors’ Center parking lot for a special alternative fuel car show. Then partake in live music, gourmet cuisine, and Central Coast wine and microbrew at this enchanted venue.

Alternative Fuel Car Show
Hearst Castle® Visitors Center Parking Lot
1:00pm – 4:00pm
Free Event
Come see new alternative fuel technology vehicles including electric, natural gas, propane, biodiesel, ethanol and hybrids! Adults and children are welcome to this free event.

Meet the Members Reception
Hearst Castle® Neptune Pool and Adjoining Terrace
5:30p.m-10:00p.m.
Adults Only – $95 Preferred Members – $125 Non-Members
Celebrate alternative fuels and enjoy an evening of live music, dancing, gourmet cuisine, Central Coast wine and mincrobrew, and a silent auction at the top of Hearst Castle®.
For more information, visit www.C5.org.
To purchase tickets call 805.305.5491

Savor the Central Coast

Dates: September 30 through October 3

Location: Santa Margarita Ranch

See Amtrak’s advertisement mentioning SLO Car Free on the Sunset Magazine website!

Don’t miss Sunset Magazine’s Savor the Central Coast, located right here in San Luis Obispo County. Indulge your tastebuds with wine from over 200 Central Coast wineries and local food being prepared by over 30 chefs!

It is easy to get to all of the Savor the Central Coast events without your car. First, where are you coming from?

Southern California areas–Try Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner. It’s one of the most beautiful rides in the world, and with several daily trips from all over Southern California to San Luis Obispo County and 20% discount for visitors who register on our website, it’s convenient and inexpensive too. Click here to see the Amtrak discount and schedule. There’s also frequent service on the greyhound coaches, or flights to SLO Airport from LAX on American Eagle or United.

San Francisco Bay or Valley Areas– Try Amtrak’s San Joaquin Rote. Twice a day in each direction they operate Amtrak Thruway bus service from Hanford to San Luis Obispo County. This is a mixed mode service contracted through Orange Belt Bus lines. Mixed mode buses are operated in conjuction with regular intercity bus carriers or transit districts providing intercity service. It is also possible to take Amtrak Thruways North from San Luis Obispo to San Francisco, Oakland or Emeryville and connect to San Joaquin Route trains at Oakland or Emeryville. Thruway Amtrak ticketing and fare structures apply to the bus portion and the rail portion together. If air travel is what you desire,  you can also travel car free to San Luis Obispo on flights from SFO.

Next- here’s how to get from Amtrak or the Airport to local hotels:
Once you have arrived, there are many options for traveling around SLO without your car. Taxis can be very inexpensive for short trips. Click here to see “Almost Car Free” alternatives.   Local buses are also a great option. There are transit lines that run from both the Amtrak and Greyhound stations, however if you are coming from the Airport there are limited bus routes. Ride-on Transportation is a great shuttle that, for a fee, they will pick you up at the Airport and take you to your destination. Many hotels that are participating Car Free hotels offer shuttles to and from the Airport and Amtrak station, make sure you check with the hotel prior to booking.

Getting around once you are here:
The Savor the Central Coast event is offering shuttles from many locations in SLO County. To see the one that is closest to you, click here.

SLO Car Free would love to answer your questions if you have any. Please feel free to give us a call at 805.781.5912 or email us at info@slocarfree.org. Also visit our testimonial page and let us know how your trip to San Luis Obispo was!

Visit the Savor the Central Coast Website

California Mid-State Fair

Dates: July 20 through August 1

Location: Paso Robles

Get all of the shuttle and transportation information here!

The California Mid-State Fair is an annual event that showcases everything from great music to comeptitive exhibits. This year, SLO Car Free, in coordination with SLO Regional Rideshare, SLO Transit, SLO Regional Transit Authority, Paso Express, Fun-Ride and Ride-on, are hosting a booth in the main exhibit hall, booth 69! The booth will provide information to the public about all of the commute and travel alternatives that are available in the County and provide giveaways for answering questions after spinning the “Wheel of Change.”  

It is easy to get to the Mid-State Fair without your car. First, where are you coming from?

CLICK HERE FOR LOCAL NORTH COUNTY SHUTTLES- These shuttles operate every 10-30 minutes (depending on the shuttle) and operate on both the west and east sides of town.

CLICK HERE FOR CITY TO CITY SHUTTLES- These shuttles offer round trip rides from Santa Maria, Nipomo, Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo and Atascadero. Wristbands can be purchased for $10 from the bus driver OR AmericanStar Trailways at 4554 So. Broad Street, SLO, CA or by calling 805-543-9999. Net proceeds will be donated to the American Cancer Society.

PASO EXPRESS The Paso Express routes A,  B,  and the Mid-day Shuttle serve the fairgrounds and the local routes connect with the North County Shuttle and the RTA service at the Transit Center. If you would like to see the Paso Express schedules, please click here.

Are you coming to SLO County from out of the area?

Southern California areas–Try Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner. It’s one of the most beautiful rides in the world, and with several daily trips from all over Southern California to San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles and 20% discount for visitors who register on our website, it’s convenient and inexpensive too. Click here to see the Amtrak discount and schedule. There’s also frequent service on the greyhound coaches, or flights to SLO Airport from LAX on American Eagle or United.

San Francisco Bay or Valley Areas– Try Amtrak’s San Joaquin Rote. Twice a day in each direction they operate Amtrak Thruway bus service from Hanford to San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles. This is a mixed mode service contracted through Orange Belt Bus lines. Mixed mode buses are operated in conjuction with regular intercity bus carriers or transit districts providing intercity service. It is also possible to take Amtrak Thruways North from San Luis Obispo to San Francisco, Oakland or Emeryville and connect to San Joaquin Route trains at Oakland or Emeryville. Thruway Amtrak ticketing and fare structures apply to the bus portion and the rail portion together. If air travel is what you desire,  you can also travel car free to San Luis Obispo on flights from SFO.

Next- here’s how to get from Amtrak or the Airport to local hotels:
Once you have arrived in San Luis Obispo or Paso Robles, there are many options for traveling around SLO without your car. Taxis can be very inexpensive for short trips. Click here to see “Almost Car Free” alternatives.   Local buses are also a great option. There are transit lines that run from both the Amtrak and Greyhound stations, however if you are coming from the Airport there are limited bus routes. Ride-on Transportation is a great shuttle that, for a fee, they will pick you up at the Airport and take you to your destination. Many hotels that are participating Car Free hotels offer shuttles to and from the Airport and Amtrak station, make sure you check with the hotel prior to booking.

If you are traveling around San Luis Obispo by bus, SLO Transit operates the CITY of San Luis Obispo,  Paso Express operates in Paso Robles, and the Regional Transit Authority connects cities throughout the county. Check schedules online at at our Google Trip Planner! 

We would love  to answer your questions if you have any. Please feel free to give us a call at 805.781.5912 or email us at info@slocarfree.org. Also visit our testimonial page and let us know how your trip to San Luis Obispo was!

Car Free Discount Offer for 2010 and 2011:  SLO Car Free registrants get a 10% discount off any Beach Butlerz furniture rental**

Beach Butlerz five-star services will change a beach enthusiasts typical day at the beach into a remarkable beach experience. Beach Butlerz offers the highest level of beach services by renting premium quality beach furniture, providing beach spa services, meals at the beach, and other beach ware to enhance a beach enthusiasts time at the beach.

Whether you are looking to throw a birthday party for your kids,  enjoy a relaxing beach spa day, or even planning a beach wedding, Beach Butlerz has everything you need to make your day special. It is as simple as ordering a service and picking a beach, Beach Butlerz handles everything else–all you have to do is show up!

Beach Butlerz
920 Vista Brisa
San Luis Obispo, Ca 93405
Questions: Cecile DeMartini
Phone: 805-878-4283
Email: cecile@beachbutlerz.com

**Discount may not be combined with any other offer.

San Luis Obispo County has several detailed bicycle maps to help you plan your trip. Whether you want to just bike around town or ride for miles and miles along San Luis Obispo’s magnificent landscape, let us show you how!

Download the following bike maps by location:

Coastal North

• Cambria
• Cayucos
• Morro Bay
• Los Osos

North County

• San Miguel
• Paso Robles
• Templeton
• Atascadero
• Santa Margarita

San Luis Obispo

• San Luis Obispo
• SLO Detail

South County

• Avila Beach
• Shell Beach
• Pismo Beach
• Arroyo Grande
• Grover Beach

You can also visit the SLO County Bicycle Coalition’s website to download other maps for San Luis Obispo and the region.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010: SLO Car Free registrants get a 10% discount off Insider’s Wine Tour to Edna Valley or Paso Robles. *

Breakaway Tours has been Uncorking California’s Central Coast Wine Country since 1995! We’re the company for you if you can you answer “Yes” to any/all of the following:

• Ever feel a little confused about wine?
• Interested in learning about wine in a fun and interactive way?
• Thirsty for something more in your wine tour then just “something to do”?
• Crave more then just a designated driver?
• Prefer to spend the day with others of like mind?

Then join us on our Insider’s Wine Tour of Paso Robles or Edna Valley. Travel back county roads discovering the familiar to hidden local favorites. Taste at four unique & authentic wineries, fees included. Enjoy a delicious lunch in the most picturesque of settings. Meet wine makers and/or owners, try barrel tasting or chocolate / cheese pairing. Don’t ever be confused about wine again. No extra charge for new friends made along the way! A 5-7 hour tour departing Saturdays from your local hotel. We’ve made booking your Insider’s Wine Tour on-line as smooth as your favorite Syrah.

Breakaway Tours & Event Planning

Edna Valley Office
PO Box 535Pismo Beach | CA | 93448

Paso Robles Office
179 Niblick Road, Suite 250 | Paso Robles | CA 93446

Phone: 805.783.2929
Toll Free: 800.799.7657
Fax: 805.489.1108
Email: tours@breakaway-tours.com

*Enter the code “car free” on the Breakaway Tours website when booking your tour to receive your immediate 10% discount. May not be combined with any other offer. Private Custom Wine Tours available any day of the week and offered with Car Free Discount, percentage contingent on tour.

 Thousands showed up at the Union Station to join in on the celebration.  Attendees were able to see old model trains, various educational booths and of course, SLO Car Free! SLO Car Free, the SLO County Air Pollution Control District and the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce hosted a booth dedicated to showing people all of the pleasures San Luis Obispo has to offer.

Amtrak

Car Free Discount Offer for 2010 to 2011: 20% Discount of an Amtrak Ticket when booked through SLO Car Free site**

“Great, worry-free travel via Amtrak from San Diego to SLO. I have already recommended SLO Car Free to my friends!”
- Ardy, San Diego

Save 20 percent when you purchase a ticket for travel on the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner or the San Joaquin® to/from San Luis Obispo County Only.  You must register to obtain the link to the Amtrak’s 20 percent discount. Click here to get your discount and follow the instructions in the confirmation email!

Three day advance reservations are required. You must click here  to register and follow the instructions in your confirmation email to obtain the link to Amtrak’s site and purchase your tickets. Have your information for ticket purchase ready before you complete registration on that page (view train schedules and general information at Amtrak.com). You may not use the discount for purchase on board the train, or for purchase of a gift certificate.

This offer is good for travel  between January 5 2010 and December 16, 2010  on the Pacific Surfliner or San Joaquin to/from San Luis Obispo County Only.

Discount is NOT available for travel in the holiday periods listed here:  April 2, 2010, April 4-5, 2010, November 23-24, 2010 and November 27-29, 2010.

Offer is valid for 20 percent off of the best available regular adult fare. The offer can’t be combined with any other discounts. Up to 2 children ages 2-15 may accompany each adult at half of the regular (full, not discounted) adult fare. Offer is valid for business class travel upon full payment of applicable accommodation charges. Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted, fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice, other restrictions may apply.

To receive the link to the page on Amtrak’s website where you can purchase tickets at the discount, first, be ready to purchase your tickets, and then click here to register and follow the instructions in the confirmation email.

For train schedules and general information, see Amtrak.com.

**Official Terms and Conditions

This offer is valid for 20 percent off the regular (full) adult rail fare. This offer is valid for sale between February 12, 2010- January 28, 2011  and valid for travel between February 16, 2010 through January 31, 2011.  Blackouts apply on the fllowing dates: April 2, 2010, April 4-5, 2010, November 23-24, 2010, November 27-29, 2010, December 17-23, 2010, December 26-30, 2010 and January 2-3, 2011.  This offer is valid for travel on the Pacific Surfliners, San Joaquins and associated thruways, except not valid on the 7000-8999 series thruways. This offer is valid for travel to/from San Luis Obispo only. This offer is valid for coach seats. Upgrade to businesses class is available upon full payment of applicable accommodations charges. This offer is exclusively available through amtrak.com via the following link www.slocarfree.org. In addition to the discount restrictions, this offer is also subject to any restrictions, blackouts and refund rules that apply to the tupe of fare purchased. Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. this offer is not combinable with any other discount offer. Once travel has begun, no changes to the itinerary are permitted. Other restrictions may apply. Please refer to Discount code H832. amtrak, Pacific Surfliner, and San Joaquines are registered service marks of the national railroad passenger corporation.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Car Free Discount Offers for 2009 and 2010:  $30 off FunRide**!

FunRide is an innovative car sharing service in San Luis Obispo County using exclusively alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles. FunRide vehicles are spread out at locations, called pods, throughout the community for easy customer access. It is easy to register to use the FunRide service. Visitors can use FunRide for only $25 for a one month period. Go to our website and click on the JOIN NOW button. You will need your driver’s license number and a credit card to join.

Car sharing is an alternative to the high cost of owning a vehicle. You can lease a vehicle on an hourly basis when you have transportation needs. Once you join the car sharing service, you can reserve the vehicle online or by phone. There is no paperwork and no waiting in lines. You will be bulled only for the hours you use the FunRide vehicle!

Fun Ride vehicles are available at the SLO Airport, Amtrak, and hotel clusters to provide low cost and environmentally friendly transportation for visitors to SLO County!

FunRide
1998 Santa Barbara Street, Suite 130
San Luis Obispo, California 93401
Phone: (805) 547- 2225

**Discount not to be combined with any other package or special. Must mention SLO Car Free when making reservations.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

• Ag Adventures of the Central Coast Event Calendar
  Ag Adventures of the Central Coast has information on agriculture tourism, farm stays and harvest festivals on the Central Coast.
• Edible San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market Calendar
• Enjoy the small-town charm and produce of the Central Coast at one (or several) of the daily farmer’s markets throughout the county.

Car Free Discount Offers for 2009 and 2010:  15% off Standard rates and a free slice of pie with the purchase of any regular priced dinner entreé**

We invite you to the Apple Farm Inn, a subtle blend of the ambiance of a turn-of-the-century Victorian Inn and the luxury of a fine hotel. The goal of our staff is to make you feel welcome by offering genuine hospitality, which combines attention to detail, friendliness and anticipation of your needs.  Come let us pamper you!

Our convenient location is within a 15-minute walk to the downtown area or Cal Poly campus and is along the Downtown Trolley loop.  SLO Transit bus stops are located two blocks north on Mill at Grand Avenue.

Complementary shuttle service is offered for the airport and Amtrak station.

Apple Farm
2015 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo, California 93401
Phone: (800) 255-2040
Fax: (805) 544-2040
Questions: Kim Wykoff
reservations@applefarm.com

**Discount not to be combined with any other package or special. Must mention SLO Car Free when making reservations.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 to 2010: Free bike rental for one day with overnight stay (up to two people per offer).

The Bridge Street Inn is a cozy European-style guest house located in the historic East Village of Cambria about 35 miles from San Luis Obispo.  Cambria is a quintessential California beach town and artist enclave that offers lots to do – with relaxing places to hike, bike, visit restaurants and galleries and of course, explore the seashore.  The Inn is located in a fully renovated 110-year old house, within walking distance of a grocery store and bakery. Accommodations include both private rooms and co-ed dorm-style rooms with bunk beds all with shared bathrooms.

Although it’s not easy to get to Cambria without a car, the Inn provides extensive information on how you can get from San Luis Obispo to Cambria without a car.  For details on getting to Cambria without a car, see the Bridge Street Inn website.  For more ideas on how to reduce your carbon footprint, see Almost Car Free.

Bridge Street Inn
4314 Bridge Street
Cambria, CA 93428
Phone: (805) 927-7653
Questions: Aimee Wyatt, Manager
Email: bridgestreetinn@yahoo.com

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Car Free Discount Offers for 2009 and 2010:  10% off Standard Room Rates**

We are conveniently located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles with shuttles to and from the airport and both trainstations (Grover Beach and San Luis Obispo). WIth a heated ocean view pool and Jacuzzi, fitness center, spa services, on-site restaurant-Marisol, and meeting rooms, there is no reason to leave. But if you choose to, there are many wineries, golf courses, and ocean adventures located nearby. Fresh from a renovation, in September 2009, you can choose from a luxurious ocean front suite to relax in, or a more economical room with 2 queen size beds to fit the family, or something in between! 

Complementary shuttle service is offered for the airport and Amtrak station.

The Cliffs Resort
2757 Shell Beach Road
Pismo Beach, California 93453
Phone: (805) 773-5000
Questions: Stephi Bowman
stephanie@cliffsresort.com

**Discount not to be combined with any other package or special. Must mention SLO Car Free when making reservations.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 to 2010: 10% off Standard Room Rates!

Courtyard by Marriott is located just minutes from exquisite wineries, breathtaking beaches, serene golf courses, beautiful hiking trails, historic Downtown SLO, and Cal Poly! Courtyard by Marriott is your perfect destination!

Courtyard by Marriott guarantees consistency with competent, professional, and friendly staff to help you with anything you need. They offer 4,000 square feet of flexible meeting space perfect for any size or type of event; group discounts, complimentary high speed wireless internet, heated pool and whirlpool Jacuzzi along with 24 hour access to a full business center, fitness center and Sundries market. Their cafe serves breakfast and dinner daily, with happy hour specials, and live music on Wednesdays!  Come see everything Courtyard by Marriott has to offer!

Courtyard by Marriott
1605 Calle Joaquin
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: (805) 786-4200
Questions: Kelly Campbell
Email: kelly.campbell@marriott.com

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

SLO Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010: 10% off Standard Room Rates!

Conveniently located at the west end of SLO’s historic downtown district and a bus stop, Downtown Travelodge is a perfect place to rest your head…without a care and a car. Enjoy the complementary continental breakfast, highspeed internet and scenic views from the hotel.

From the Amtrak station, take SLO Transit (click here to download the SLO Transit Map). See Almost Car Free for more ways to get to the Downtown Travelodge from the Amtrak station or the airport.

Our convenient location is within walking distance to the downtown or a 10 minute bus ride (via Route 2) to the Downtown Transit Center.

Downtown Travelodge
345 Marsh Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 543-8443
Questions: Dave
dave@travelodgeslo.com

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010:  10% off Standard Rates and Free Shuttle Service!

When visiting the beauty and culture that San Luis Obispo has to offer, the Embassy Suites San Luis Obispo Hotel – Central Coast is the best place to lay your head. Whether it’s a day at the white sandy beach, a winery getaway, or business as usual on the golf course, you can always relax in our beautifully decorated suites, complete with a private bedroom and separate living room area with a sleeper sofa and plush chairs.

Our convenient location is within a 15 minute bus ride (via Route 5) to the downtown.

We are pleased to provide complimentary transportation to and from the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport and the Amtrak train station.

Embassy Suites Hotels- San Luis Obispo
333 Madonna Road
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: (805) 549-0800
Fax: (805) 549-9138
Questions: Teresa Ricard
Phone: 805.547.6403
Email: teresa.ricard@wcghotels.com

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010: SLO Car Free registrants get a 10% discount off room rate.  Redeem this offer now.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010:  10% off Hearst Castle tickets!

Hostel Obispo is located in a charming historic neighborhood just 2 blocks from the Amtrak train station, within a 10 minute walk to the downtown and with a bus stop located across the street. The 20-bed hostel features both private and dorm-style accommodations, a fully-equipped kitchen, cozy lounge with fireplace, piano, guitar, board games, on-site parking, an outdoor garden patio, laundry facilities and a complimentary sourdough pancake breakfast.

The hostel provides inexpensive bicycle rentals on-site. Receive a free bike rental with a 3-day stay!

From the Amtrak station: Walk north on Railroad Ave. Turn left at the bend onto Santa Rosa Street and walk one and a half blocks down the (steep) hill. Hostel Obispo is located on the left at 1617 Santa Rosa Street. Alternatively, you can take SLO Transit route 5 to the next bus stop (about a 30 second ride)!

See Almost Car Free for more ways to get to Hostel Obispo from the Amtrak station or the airport.

Hostel Obispo
1617 Santa Rosa
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 544-4678
Questions: Elaine Simer
Email: reservations@hostelobispo.com

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

The Inn at Morro Bay is under new management and will be offering a discount soon. Stay tuned for details!

The Inn at Morro Bay, unique among Morro Bay hotels, is ideally located on California’s Central Coast, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Nestled on 4,000 acres just inside Morro Bay State Park, the Inn offers visitors a true coastal hideaway of unsurpassed natural beauty.

Morro Bay, California offers life in the slow lane. Shop for antiques in town, or watch rare birds in the National Estuary. Spend a gourmet afternoon wine tasting in the lush countryside of Paso Robles. Hearst Castle, historic San Luis Obispo, and centuries-old missions wait to be explored. Harbor cruises are available daily. That is, if you can tear yourself away from our grounds!

The Inn at Morro Bay offers a complimentary shuttle service from the SLO Airport and the Amtrak Station. The hotel also provides free bicycle rentals for guests!

See Almost Car Free for more ways to get to the Inn at Morro Bay from the Amtrak station or the airport.

Inn at Morro Bay
60 State Park Road
Morro Bay, CA 93442
Phone: (805) 772-5651
Questions: Meghan Hamill
Email: frontdeskmanager@innatmorrobay.com

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

SLO Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010: $10.00 off standard room rates.**

La Cuesta Inn is the perfect hotel for both leisure and business travelers. Experience the genuine warmth and hospitality that makes the Central Coast of California the ultimate desitination. La Cuesta Inn is an idependently owned and managed boutique hotel that is dedicated to supporting a cleaner environment by using recycled products, implementing Project Planet©, and encouraging walking and the use of buses to get downtown and to local businesses and services. Come enjoy and relax in one of our beautiful 72 rooms!

Our convenient location is within a 15-minute walk to the downtown area or Cal Poly campus and is along the Downtown Trolley loop.  SLO Transit bus stops are located two blocks north on Mill at Grand Avenue.

La Cuesta Inn
2074 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo, California 93401
Phone: (805) 543-2777

**Discount not to be combined with any other package or special. Must mention SLO Car Free when making reservations.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

SLO Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010: 15% off Standard room rates.  Restrictions apply**

Our inn is near the heart of  the beautiful downtown San Luis Obispo and within walking distance from strolling along the streets filled with shops, boutiques, galleries, jewelry stores, and charming restaurants. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, make the Los Padres Inn your home away from home. We look forward to serving you and making your San Luis stay comfortable.

Our convenient location is within a 10 minute walk to the downtown and is along the Downtown Trolley loop.  SLO Transit bus stops are located two blocks north on Mill at California Street.

From the Amtrak station, take SLO Transit route 5 (click here to download the SLO Transit Map) to Mill at California, walk two blocks south on California Street (down the steep hill).  Cross Monterey Street at the cross walk, then turn left to arrive at 1575 Monterey Street.

For more ways to get to Los Padres Inn from the Amtrak station or the airport, see Almost Car Free.

Los Padres Inn
1575 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 543-5017
Toll Free: (800) 543-5090
Fax: (805) 547-1664
Questions: Vibs Panchal
lospadresinn@yahoo.com

**Discount is only available Sunday through Friday and may not be combined with any other offer.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

For more information on this project, or to add or change information on this site, contact Meghan Field at (805) 781-5912 or info@slocarfree.org.

cforms contact form by delicious:days

cforms contact form by delicious:days

The San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club lists hundreds of bike rides on their website including some of San Luis Obispo’s challenging “Great Rides,” local “Favorite Rides,” as well as rides designed for “SLO Pokes” looking for a less strenuous adventure.

Ride Summary: A quick ride through Cuesta College on little trafficked back roads and returning to town on Highway One. Some small hills, but no major climbs.

For maps of the following rides, see the various North County and Coast North bike maps.

Starting Point for all SLO North rides: Santa Rosa Park at the corner of Santa Rosa and Oak in San Luis Obispo just north of US 101.

View Cuesta College Loop in a larger map

0.0       TR out of Santa Rosa Park onto Santa Rosa Rd / Hwy One.
0.4       TL onto Foothill Blvd.
2.9       TR onto O’Connor Dr.
5.3       Top of hill.
6.1       Entering National Guard facility
6.3       TR at the first available turn. Caution – speed bumps.
6.5       TR at the T-intersection.
6.8       CS at the stop sign.
7.2       TR at stoplight onto Hwy One.
12.5     TL into Santa Rosa Park (suggest use crosswalk at Murray St.)

*How do you determine difficulty ratings?

It is challenging to come up with a difficulty rating system that is relevant for everyone. A very fit cyclist might consider our “Moderately Strenuous” trips to not be hard at all, while someone who exercises infrequently or is not used to cycling might find a “Moderately Easy” tour to be quite a challenge. Our bicycle tour rating system is based on the approximate fitness level of a casual recreational cyclist who rides at least once per week and rides over fifteen miles on a regular basis. If you ride less or more than this, please adjust your expectations of the tour accordingly. To flesh out the rather subjective difficulty rating, we also include the distance for each tour and a terrain description.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010:  Complementary bike rental with stay!

Step inside the cobblestone courtyard and find yourself transported to the rustic charm and colors of Provence. Freshly brewed coffee and a full gastronome breakfast will be served to you each morning in our inviting dining room, or in the sun filled back patio. Every evening you can relax and enjoy a tasting of Local and French wines paired with delectable appetizers. Stay at Petit Soleil, Bed et Breakfast, and enjoy a touch of European charm in the heart of San Luis Obispo.

Our convenient location is only five blocks from downtown San Luis Obispo and is along the Downtown Trolley loop.  SLO Transit bus stops are located two blocks north on Mill at California Street.

From the Amtrak station, take SLO Transit route 5 (click here to download the SLO Transit Map) to Mill at California, walk two blocks south on California Street (down the steep hill).  Cross Monterey Street at the cross walk, then turn right to arrive at 1473 Monterey Street.

For more ways to get to Petit Soleil from the Amtrak station or the airport, see Almost Car Free.

Petit Soleil – Bed et Breakfast
1473 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 549-0321
Toll Free: (800) 676-1588
Fax: (805) 549-0383
Email: reservations@petitsoleilslo.com
Questions: John Conner

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Ride Summary: A varied ride taking in Highway One and the coastal town of Morro Bay on the way north. On the return south you’ll ride Turri Rd; a great, little trafficked road often used for bike photo shoots. Great views of a series of craggy peaks between Highway One and Los Osos Valley called the Nine Sisters. Relatively level for most of the ride with a few gradual climbs and descents one steeper climb and descent on Turri Rd.

0.0       TR out of Santa Rosa Park onto Santa Rosa Road / Hwy One. Highway One to Morro Bay is mostly a busy four lane freeway with a large shoulder.
10.8     EXIT Freeway at Los Osos / Baywood Park Exit.
11.0     TL at end of exit ramp. Cross under freeway.
11.2     TR onto Quintana. Uphill.
11.8     TL  onto Morro Bay Blvd. Busy intersection. Downhill into town.
12.3     TL onto Main St. To explore Morro Rock or the waterfront, TR and follow the signs, then return to Main St. and follow this south out of town and through Morro Bay State Park.
15.0     TR onto unmarked South Bay Blvd after passing the marina.
16.4     TL onto Turri Road just before bridge with bear statue. One big climb and descent.
21.0     TL onto Los Osos Valley Rd. Busier highway with good shoulder.
25.0     TL onto Foothill Blvd at the stoplight. Enter City of San Luis Obispo and pass through several stoplights.
27.9     TR onto Santa Rosa Road / Highway One.
28.3     TL into Santa Rosa Park (suggest use crosswalk at Murray St.)

*How do you determine difficulty ratings?

It is challenging to come up with a difficulty rating system that is relevant for everyone. A very fit cyclist might consider our “Moderately Strenuous” trips to not be hard at all, while someone who exercises infrequently or is not used to cycling might find a “Moderately Easy” tour to be quite a challenge. Our bicycle tour rating system is based on the approximate fitness level of a casual recreational cyclist who rides at least once per week and rides over fifteen miles on a regular basis. If you ride less or more than this, please adjust your expectations of the tour accordingly. To flesh out the rather subjective difficulty rating, we also include the distance for each tour and a terrain description.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010:  30% off Standard Rates!!

At the Quality Suites – San Luis Obispo, you can look forward to coming home to a luxurious, spacious suite after a busy day. Our 138 suites (most featuring king size beds) are equipped with a full range of services and amenities. The microwave and refrigerator make it easy to prepare a meal—or just unwind with a movie.  We are pleased to provide complimentary transportation to and from the San Luis Obipso Regional Airport and the Amtrak train station. 

Our convenient location is within a 15-minute walk to the downtown area or Cal Poly campus and is along the Downtown Trolley loop.  SLO Transit bus stops are located two blocks north on Mill at California Street.

We offer a complimentary breakfast and complimentary beer and wine tasting daily.

Quality Suites Inn- San Luis Obispo
1631 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 541-5001
Fax: (805) 546-9475
Questions: Bruce Watson

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Ride Summary: A longer out and back with a gorgeous coastal state park at the far end. Mostly level riding to start along a well trafficked rural highway with good shoulders to Los Osos. After Los Osos, the park road is hilly with spectacular views and medium to light traffic.

View Los Osos and Montana de Oro in a larger map

• 0.0 – TR out of Santa Rosa Park onto Santa Rosa Road / Hwy One.
• 0.4 – TL onto Foothill Blvd. Busy intersection. Suggest using crosswalks.
• 3.3 – TR onto Los Osos Valley Road.
• 10.2 – CS at South Bay Blvd into downtown Los Osos.
• 11.7 – Leave Los Osos and begin series of hills into Montana de Oro State Park.
• 15.4 – Montana de Oro State Park visitor center and campground. Hills continue.
• 16.7 – End of road. Return the way you came.
• 30.1 – TL onto Foothill Blvd at the stoplight. Enter City of San Luis Obispo and pass through several stoplights.
• 33.0 – TR onto Santa Rosa Road / Highway One.
• 33.4 – TL into Santa Rosa Park (suggest use crosswalk at Murray St.)

*How do you determine difficulty ratings?

It is challenging to come up with a difficulty rating system that is relevant for everyone. A very fit cyclist might consider our “Moderately Strenuous” trips to not be hard at all, while someone who exercises infrequently or is not used to cycling might find a “Moderately Easy” tour to be quite a challenge. Our bicycle tour rating system is based on the approximate fitness level of a casual recreational cyclist who rides at least once per week and rides over fifteen miles on a regular basis. If you ride less or more than this, please adjust your expectations of the tour accordingly. To flesh out the rather subjective difficulty rating, we also include the distance for each tour and a terrain description.

Ride Summary: Highway One north to Cayucos is a busy four lane freeway most of the way with great coastal views between Morro Bay and Cayucos. As you enter Cayucos, look for Pacific Coast Bike Route signs to get you off the freeway.

View Riding to Cayucos on Highway One in a larger map

*How do you determine difficulty ratings?

It is challenging to come up with a difficulty rating system that is relevant for everyone. A very fit cyclist might consider our “Moderately Strenuous” trips to not be hard at all, while someone who exercises infrequently or is not used to cycling might find a “Moderately Easy” tour to be quite a challenge. Our bicycle tour rating system is based on the approximate fitness level of a casual recreational cyclist who rides at least once per week and rides over fifteen miles on a regular basis. If you ride less or more than this, please adjust your expectations of the tour accordingly. To flesh out the rather subjective difficulty rating, we also include the distance for each tour and a terrain description.

For the following rides, download the Edna Valley Wineries by Bike map from the SLO County Bicycle Coalition website.

Starting Point for all SLO South rides: San Luis Obispo Amtrak Station, 1011 Railroad Avenue at Santa Rosa Street. The station is just south of the downtown area at the end of Santa Rosa Street. Parking is available in the station parking lot.

Tip: Before heading out of town, pick up a quick sandwich at the Broad Street Giant Grinder for a picnic lunch. They offer a 20% for Car Free travelers!

Tiffany Ranch Road Loop – 19.7 miles – Moderate (short option crossing valley at Biddle Ranch is 13.4 miles and is Moderately Easy)*

Ride Summary: A scenic loop through the Edna Valley wine growing region. Several wineries along the route. Some hills toward the south end of the valley. Winds from the north tend to pick up in the afternoon. A shorter route (13.4 miles) that avoids the hills can be made by crossing the valley at Biddle Ranch Road.

View Tiffany Ranch Road Loop in a larger map

0.0       RR station. Take bike path bridge across tracks and follow path along tracks away from the RR station.
2.0       TL onto Orcutt Road.
2.4       TR to stay on Orcutt Road.
3.4       TL to stay on Orcutt Road.
9.1       TR onto Tiffany Ranch Road.
10.1     TR onto Corbett Canyon Road.
12.1     TR onto 227.
17.4     TR onto Orcutt Road.
17.7     TL onto bike path just after RR tracks.
19.7     Take bike path bridge back over tracks to station. End of ride.

*How do you determine difficulty ratings?

It is challenging to come up with a difficulty rating system that is relevant for everyone. A very fit cyclist might consider our “Moderately Strenuous” trips to not be hard at all, while someone who exercises infrequently or is not used to cycling might find a “Moderately Easy” tour to be quite a challenge. Our bicycle tour rating system is based on the approximate fitness level of a casual recreational cyclist who rides at least once per week and rides over fifteen miles on a regular basis. If you ride less or more than this, please adjust your expectations of the tour accordingly. To flesh out the rather subjective difficulty rating, we also include the distance for each tour and a terrain description.

Ride Summary: A scenic loop through the vineyard and ranch country south of SLO. Several wineries along the route. Some hills toward the south end of the ride. Winds from the north tend to pick up in the afternoon. Longer rides can be made by adding out and back options to Lopez Lake or Huasna townsite. One major climb/descent on the road to Huasna townsite.

View Corbett Canyon Loop in a larger map

0.0       RR station. Take bike path bridge across tracks and follow path along tracks away from the RR station.
2.0       TL onto Orcutt Road.
2.4       TR to stay on Orcutt Road.
3.4       TL to stay on Orcutt Road.
6.2       CS to stay on Orcutt Road. OR for short option, TR onto Biddle Ranch Road, ride 1 mile to Hwy 227 and TR. You are now just before the 17.4 mile mark below.
11.3     TR onto Lopez Drive. For an interesting detour to Lopez Lake, TL at Lopez Drive and ride out and back 4.5 miles to Lopez Lake. For another interesting detour, TR on Lopez Drive, ride 2.6 miles and TL onto Huasna Road for an out and back to Huasna Townsite 10.2 miles each way.
15.5     TR onto 227.
16.0     TR onto Corbett Canyon Road.
21.9     TR onto 227.
27.2     TR onto Orcutt Road.27.5     TL onto bike path just after RR tracks.
29.5     Take bike path bridge back over tracks to station. End of ride.

*How do you determine difficulty ratings?

It is challenging to come up with a difficulty rating system that is relevant for everyone. A very fit cyclist might consider our “Moderately Strenuous” trips to not be hard at all, while someone who exercises infrequently or is not used to cycling might find a “Moderately Easy” tour to be quite a challenge. Our bicycle tour rating system is based on the approximate fitness level of a casual recreational cyclist who rides at least once per week and rides over fifteen miles on a regular basis. If you ride less or more than this, please adjust your expectations of the tour accordingly. To flesh out the rather subjective difficulty rating, we also include the distance for each tour and a terrain description.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

The historic Mission is the anchor of downtown SLO. Walk or take SLO Transit to the downtown to take a tour around the Mission, enjoy the summer Concerts in the Plaza or stroll along San Luis Obispo Creek.

This activity is suitable for:

View Larger Map and directions

Old Mission Parish
751 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo CA, 93401
Phone: (805) 781-8220
Parish Office: office@oldmissionslo.org
Gift Shop: info@missionsanluisobispo.org

The San Luis Obispo Historical Museum is located across the street from the Mission. It is housed in the former Carnegie Library Building, which was built in 1904/05. The museum is open from 10:00am-4:00pm, Wednesday through Sunday. Visit their website for exhibit information.

View Larger Map and walking directions

San Luis Obispo Historical Museum
696 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 543-0638

Ride Summary: A diverse, mostly out and back tour taking in the Bob Jones Bike trail, Avila Beach and the historic Harford Pier. No major climbs, unless you want to explore up See Canyon.

View Tour du Avila in a larger map

0.0       RR station. Go north on Santa Rosa Street away from the station back toward downtown.
0.4       TL onto Higuera and take this out of town.
5.0       TR onto Ontario Road just after crossing underneath US 101.
7.0       CS at San Luis Bay Drive to stay on Ontario Road.
7.8       TR onto the Bob Jones Bike Trail just before a bridge. Trailhead parking to the left. Follow bike trail signs.
8.7       CS at San Luis Bay Drive to stay on Bob Jones Bike Trail. CAUTION: Rough pavement.
10.0     TR onto Avila Beach Drive.
11.4     Harford Pier (Port San Luis). End of the road. Check out the pier and enjoy the sea lions. Several restaurants. Return the way you came to SLO. For an interesting detour, TL onto San Luis Bay Drive from midway on the Bob Jones Bike Trail, ride for about a  half mile, then TL up See Canyon Road. See Canyon Road climbs several miles along a pretty canyon until the road turns to dirt.
21.8     TR onto Marsh as you enter the downtown area.
22.4     TR onto Santa Rosa Street.
22.8     RR station. End of ride.

*How do you determine difficulty ratings?

It is challenging to come up with a difficulty rating system that is relevant for everyone. A very fit cyclist might consider our “Moderately Strenuous” trips to not be hard at all, while someone who exercises infrequently or is not used to cycling might find a “Moderately Easy” tour to be quite a challenge. Our bicycle tour rating system is based on the approximate fitness level of a casual recreational cyclist who rides at least once per week and rides over fifteen miles on a regular basis. If you ride less or more than this, please adjust your expectations of the tour accordingly. To flesh out the rather subjective difficulty rating, we also include the distance for each tour and a terrain description.

Pedal your way on a self-guided tour through Chinatown and past the Mission in the historic downtown core. Pick up a bite to eat at the Creamery where millions of gallons of milk were processed each year in the 1900s. Bike through Japan Town and take a rest at Meadow Park, before reaching Railroad Square. Continue through SLO’s historic neighborhoods and admire the Victorian homes on your way to the Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, which also houses one of the original street cars in SLO. (see ride map)

The Jack House is a restored elegant Victorian house, which was the home of a prominent family in San Luis Obispo’s past. The house is filled with many of the family’s original furnishings, artwork, kitchen utensils, dishes and keepsakes. The Jack House is conveniently located within walking distance of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and the City’s historic downtown. 

Ride the free Downtown Trolley, disembarking at Nipomo and Marsh Streets.  Walk one half block south to the Jack House. All tours are $2.00 per person; children under 12 are free.  Tours are every Sunday, April through December from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. except for holidays (last tours start 30 minutes prior to closing time).

View Larger Map & Step-by-step directions

Jack House and Gardens
536 Marsh Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
24-hour information hot-line: (805) 781-7303
To schedule group tours: (805) 781-7308

Edna Valley Wineries by Bike

Tour the beautiful Edna Valley by bike – stopping at the local wineries along the way! For detailed directions on a ride starting in San Luis Obispo, see the Tiffany Ranch Road Loop ride above. (see ride map)

The Dallidet Adobe is a unique adobe dwelling tucked away in a historic neighborhood in San Luis Obispo. The Dallidet Adobe features breathtaking gardens, original furnishings and houses the Ramona Depot with one of the original street cars in SLO. The Dallidet Adobe is open every second Sunday from 1:00pm-4:00pm during the winter and every Sunday from 1:00pm-4:00pm during the summer.

From the SLO Transit Center, you can walk 4 blocks south on Osos Street, turn left on Pacific Street and walk to blocks to the end of the cul-de-sac. The Dallidet Adobe will be on the right at 1185 Pacific Street (about a 10 minute walk). Or take SLO Transit Route 4, disembark at Santa Rosa at Marsh Street, continue one block to Pacific Street and turn left onto Pacific Street.

View Larger Map and walking directions

Dallidet Adobe
1185 Pacific Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 544-2303

Central Coast Outdoors enthusiastically supports SLO Car Free. They offer guided bike, hike and kayak tours of the SLO area. Kayak tours are on Morro Bay, bike tours go along the coast and/or through local wine country areas and hiking tours feature Big Sur and other local areas. Explore the SLO area with the local experts! All biking tours offer hotel pick-up (often complimentary) and bikes are included in tour price. Click here for SLO Car Free Discount details.

Central Coast Outdoors
PO Box 6893, Los Osos CA 93412
John Flaherty, Owner
Phone: 805-528-1080
Fax: 805.528.5209
John@centralcoastoutdoors.com

Click here for all SLO Car Free Discounts on bike tours and more!

Built in 1940, the historic Fremont Theater is a landmark for downtown San Luis Obispo. Murals adorn the walls of the large original main theater. Additional screens are located in an adjacent building. Located at 1025 Monterey Street, the Fremont Theater is less than two blocks from the Downtown Transit Center.

View Larger Map and walking directions

Fremont Theater
1025 Monterey Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 541-2141

1) Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

The historic Mission is the anchor of downtown San Luis Obispo.  Walk or take SLO Transit to downtown SLO to take a tour around the Mission, enjoy the summer Concerts in the Plaza or stroll along San Luis Obispo Creek

Every Thursday evening from 6:00-9:00pm, delicious, tempting aromas fill the air and pedestrians flood on to Higuera Street for the weekly Farmers’ Market in Downtown SLO. Enjoy strolling through the several blocks of fresh produce, flowers, BBQ, great food, free music and entertainment… tasting as you go! Walk, bike or take SLO Transit to the Downtown Transit Center and follow your nose (or the parade of others) two blocks south to the festival! The SLO County Bicycle Coalition provides free bike valet parking.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010: SLO Car Free registrants get a 10% discount off any Central Coast Outdoors tours**

Central Coast Outdoors enthusiastically supports SLO Car Free. They offer guided bike, hike and kayak tours of the SLO area. Kayak tours are on Morro Bay, bike tours go along the coast and/or through local wine country areas and hiking tours feature Big Sur and other local areas. Explore the SLO area with the local experts! All biking tours offer hotel pick-up (often complimentary) and bikes are included in tour price.

Central Coast Outdoors
PO Box 6893, Los Osos CA 93412
Questions: John Flaherty, Owner
Phone: 805-528-1080
Fax: 805-528-5209
Email: John@centralcoastoutdoors.com

**Discount may not be combined with any other offer.

Bicycle Rentals

*Prices subject to change. Call to confirm cost details.

2) Visit the Enchanting Hearst Castle®

Where can you see zebras and cows grazing together on the coast against the backdrop of a castle? At Hearst Castle, of course! Located 45 miles north of San Luis Obispo is La Cuesta Encantada® – The Enchanted Hill® – once home to the newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst from 1919 until 1947. Hearst Castle is now maintained as a state historic monument and is open to viewing from the public daily. The castle features 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools, 165 rooms in four houses, a movie theater, an airfield and even a zoo. You can even get to Hearst Castle without a car, if you’re up to the challenge!

View SLO to Hearst Castle in a larger map

Bus Directions to Hearst Castle: On the weekend, take the first SLO RTA Route 12 B bus at 9:33am from the San Luis Obispo Government Center to arrive at the Hearst Castle Information Center at 11:28am. Grab a bite to eat at the Visitor’s Center Snack Bar before you take one of the several tours offered at the castle (except the evening tour, due to the lack of bus availability).  After your 1 hour and 45 minute tour, enjoy some time in the gift shop before catching the RTA 12 B bus back to SLO at 4:39pm (on Saturdays) or 3:39pm (on Sundays).  You will arrive back in SLO at 6:27pm or 5:27pm, respectively.  If you take Tour One, you should schedule a tour before noon to allow yourself enough time to enjoy the 40-minute original movie, Hearst Castle Building the Dream that is included in the purchase price of that tour.  You should book your reservation at Hearst Castle ahead of time, as tours often sell out. Be sure to book a tour that allows you to get back to the bus by the time it departs! Service to Hearst Castle® is also available on the weekdays via RTA 12A and 12 B with one connection in Morro Bay.

Other Car Free ways to get to Hearst Castle: There are other transportation options for getting to Hearst Castle that will help reduce your car-bon footprint. See Almost Car Free for more ideas.

* Photo courtesy of Hearst Castle®/California State Parks

Located between Osos and Morro streets along Higuera and Monterey, Court Street is in the heart of the shopping district in downtown SLO. This pedestrian-only promenade allows you to enjoy the best of downtown shopping away from the bustle of cars on the street. Walk, bike or take SLO Transit to the Downtown Transit Center. From the transit center, walk one block south and turn right on Monterey Street. Walk half a block and you’re there!

Love it or hate it, charmed or disgusted by it, Bubblegum Alley is located in the heart of the downtown, just off Higuera Street between Garden and Broad streets. Walk through the alley if you dare! Be sure to bring a camera and don’t forget the bubblegum!

Art After Dark

Every first Friday of the month from 6:00-9:00pm, art galleries in San Luis Obispo keep their doors open late for Art After Dark. Many galleries offer wine and appetizers to quench the palettes of aesthetes as they walk from gallery to gallery viewing the art collections.

SLO Walking Tours provides fun and informative walking tours – you’ll  explore both historic and contemporary San Luis Obispo, ranging from the Mission, Old Chinatown and Bubble Gum Alley to cool galleries, theaters, cafes and restaurants frequented by SLO locals that you’ll enjoy discovering as well! They offer tours for individuals and groups that will be one of the highlights of your trip to SLO. Call for tour times and locations.

SLO Walking Tours
PO Box 15253
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406-5253
Steve Akers, Owner
Phone: 805-215-3228
info@slowalkingtours.com

SLO Walking Tours offers a discount for SLO Car Free participants.

Take a step back in time with the Path of History self-guided walking tour of San Luis Obispo’s historical treasures. From the historic Mission or County Historical Museum to the Fremont Theater, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this tour. For more information on San Luis Obispo’s historic buildings or the “Path of History,” visit the San Luis Obispo Visitors Center or call (805) 781-2777.

Come experience the diversity in plant life of the Mediterranean climate zones of the world in this educational and beautiful botanical garden. Located just north of SLO in the El Chorro Regional Park, the botanical gardens feature a preview garden with a small creek and a sustainably-constructed Educational Center. The garden is open to the public daily during daylight hours. Admission is free. The business office and gift shop are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

www.slobg.org

Bus directions to the SLO Botanical Gardens: From the SLO Transit Center, take Route 12A (Monday through Friday) or 12B (Saturday & Sunday) to Cuesta College Romauldo Road at Parking Lot #3. Cross HWY 1 at Hollister Ave at the traffic light to enter the El Chorro Regional Park. Walk approximately 1 mile up Dairy Creek Road to the SLO Botanical Gardens.

Another idea: take your bike on the bus, or bike to the Botanical Gardens from SLO!

San Luis Obispo Open Space and Recreational Trails
Bishop Peak Natural Reserve
Cerro San Luis Natural Reserve
Irish Hills Natural Reserve
Islay Hill Open Space
Laguna Lake Open Space
Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve
South Hills Open Space
Terrace Hill Open Space

Just north of SLO along the coast lies the picturesque fishing village of Morro Bay. The main harbor in Morro Bay lies at the north end of a spectacular National Estuary, which abounds in birds, seals, otters and other types of wildlife and is easily accessed by kayak. A four mile long isolated sandspit on the other side of the harbor offers one willing to kayak the short distance out to it, a stunning beach all to oneself.

View Larger Map

The Embarcadero (or waterfront) area in Morro Bay abounds with gift stores, restaurants, kayak rental shops and places to buy locally caught fish. Just north of the Embarcadero is imposing Morro Rock, a rugged monolith that is home to peregrine falcons. A beautiful sandy beach popular with local surfers stretches north from Morro Rock all the way to Cayucos. If you are looking for a car free coastal escape near SLO, look no further than easily accessible Morro Bay.

Bus directions to Morro Bay: Take SLO RTA Route #12 from the San Luis Obispo Government Center takes you to Morro Bay and drops off at Morro Bay Park at the corner of Piney Way and Harbor Street, less than ½ mile from the waterfront (just walk downhill). It’s about a 40-50 minute bus ride each way. On the weekdays, Route #12A is the best choice.  On weekends, Route #12B is the best choice.  For detailed schedules and route information, click here. Or for directions on biking to Morro Bay, click here .

Morro Bay Trolley: You can also take the Morro Bay Trolley around town. It meets SLO RTA Route 12 at Morro Bay Park. The trolley runs Fridays, weekends, and Mondays. It also operates on Fourth of July, Memorial Day and Labor Day. Click here for details

For Kayak rentals in Morro Bay, see the Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce Kayak Listings

Join the locals for a fun, monthly “happening.” Every first Thursday of the month at 9:30pm after the Farmers’ Market, people dust off their old cruisers or bring out their pricey pride and joy to loop around the downtown, starting at the Mission. They ride “because we like to get people on their bikes and to have fun.”  Sometimes hundreds of people come out for this fun ride. Every month has a different theme, but the rules are always the same: Have fun, respect our community, and obey all traffic laws. Come dressed to impress for the month’s theme and remember to wear a helmet and bike lights!

Car Free Discount Offer for 2010 and 2011: SLO Car Free registrants get a 10% discount off a custom bike tour**

Imagine pedaling your bike among sun drenched oaks between exclusive wineries or biking down the Pacific Coast Highway with a salty breeze at your back… Central Coast Outdoors handles all the details! Custom Bike Tours by Central Coast Outdoors offers custom, private bicycle tours of California’s Central Coast as well as other beautiful California coastal and wine country regions.

At Custom Bike Tours by Central Coast Outdoors, they specialize in providing exceptional custom bicycle tours in California to couples and small groups, as well as large groups. The owners, John and Virginia Flaherty, have been guiding bike tours all over the world for decades and would love to help you enjoy the guided bike tour you have always dreamed of. They are experts at putting together guided custom bicycle tours anywhere in California, especially along the coast and through wine country areas. They offer three levels of service for custom bike tours: Inclusive Tours with Lodging, SAG only and Self Guided Tours. They can design an itinerary to mix some of their regular day trips with some custom designed days to make a very affordable bicycle vacation!  

Custom Bike Tours by Central Coast Outdoors
247 Vista Court
Los Osos, CA 93402
Questions: John Flaherty, Owner
Phone: 888-873-5610
Email: info@centralcoastoutdoors.com

**Discount may not be combined with any other offer.

Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010: SLO Car Free registrants get a 25% discount off movie tickets at the Hearst Castle Theater located at the Hearst Castle Visitor Center.

The Hearst Castle Theater at the Hearst Castle Visitor Center is a 5-Story screen theater showing the resident film “Hearst Castle, Building the Dream” as the companion film to Hearst Castle tours.  Hearst Castle – Building the Dream was produced exclusively for this theater.  Breathtaking original cinematography combined with vintage clips and stills from the 1920’s and 30’s allows visitors to experience the building of Hearst Castle® and the life of the  newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.  With this special offer, you can receive 25% off the film. The film is an attraction in itself or you can use this offer with the purchase of any tour, except Tour 1 which already includes the film in the price of that ticket. For Hearst Castle general ticket and tour information, click here: www.hearstcastle.com

Hearst Castle® Theater
750 Hearst Castle Road
San Simeon, CA 93452-9741
Tour Reservations: (800) 444-4445
Hearst Castle Theater: (805) 927-6811
Email: info@hearstcastletheater.com

Bike Valet at the Farmers’ Market

The SLO County Bicycle Coalition provides free bike valet parking for bike riders at the Farmer’s Market every Thursday from 5:30pm -9:30pm. For more details on the Farmers’ Market see “Attractions and Itineraries.”

Bike Valet at Concerts in the Plaza

Ride your bike and enjoy free secure parking on site at Concerts in the Plaza. Every Friday from 5-8 all summer long.  Find the Band Line-up here.

Bike Valet Calendar

See the bike valet calendar for full list of events that provide free bike valet parking.

SLO Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010:  20% any regularly priced item **

Have a little East Coast flavor on the West Coast, right in the heart of San Luis Obispo! Delicious, simple and fresh, try our original and put us to the test. We offer a size for any appetite so don’t be afraid to come down. Conveniently located on Broad Street, the Giant Grinder Shop is perfect for grabbing a quick sandwich for your picnic lunch on your bike ride out to the beautiful vineyards of Edna Valley.

The Broad Street Giant Grinder Shop
1901 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 543-6700

** Discount may not be combined with any other offer

Chow Restaurant

SLO Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010:  $5 off an order of $25 or more!**

Enjoy the fresh bold flavors of California Asian cuisine presented in our beautiful skylit bistro. Chow offers small plates in a casual, fun atmosphere. 

Chow is situated next to the historic Fremont Theater, near the Mission Plaza and shopping district in downtown San Luis Obispo. Our high ceilings and skylights bring natural light into a spacious dining room. Enjoy modern décor, a spectacular bamboo installation and subtle displays of antique, folk and retro pieces. “Tatami” style dining is available for groups up to 24 people.

Chefs Justin Gabbert and Alan Hsu created Chow’s fresh and clean menu, offering a California interpretation on primarily Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. We shop for produce twice a week at farmers markets. Roast duck, chili crab and braised short ribs are a few of our signature dishes. Housemade egg noodles, wontons and dumplings round out a diverse menu with warmth and comfort.

An eclectic wine, beer and sake menu features excellent white wine, classic and artisan beer, and enticing cold sake to complement the flavors of Chow’s Asian inspired menu.

LUNCH Monday-Saturday 11AM
DINNER Monday-Saturday 5PM
SUNDAY Dinner 4PM

Reservations 805.540.5243
Place an order for pickup
Place an order for delivery

Chow Restaurant
Robin Covey
1009 Monterey St
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 540-5243

** Discount may not be combined with any other offer

San Luis Obispo Bicycle Club

SLO County Bicycle Coalition

SLO Nexus

Cal Poly Wheelman

San Luis Obispo Downtown

Spend the day discovering Downtown San Luis Obispo!  Walk, bike or take SLO Transit to the Downtown Transit Center.  Walk south two blocks, and turn right on Higuera Street into the heart of downtown SLO.  Enjoy your time shopping at small boutiques and large retail stores alike.  Take a self-guided or guided tour of the historic downtown.  Your vacation to SLO wouldn’t be complete without going to the weekly Farmers’ Market on Thursday evenings – when Higuera Street transforms into a festival of flavors and sounds! 

View Walk and Taste San Luis Obispo! in a larger map

To get to the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, stroll down Higuera Street until you reach Chorro Street, turn right and go one block to Monterey Street or hop on the SLO Trolley for 25 cents to get dropped off at the Mission Plaza.  Be sure to stop in at the San Luis Historical Museum across the street and the Jack House just a few blocks away.  For a tour of these historic places and more, take a walking tour of the downtown.  If you’re here on a Friday during the summer, enjoy the weekly Concert in the Plaza or the monthly Art after Dark , when galleries keep their doors open late.  Afterwards, walk along the creek before stopping in at one of the downtown’s diverse restaurants. After dinner, catch a movie at the historic Art Deco Fremont Theater, which has been projecting films on the silver screen since 1941.  Return to your hotel using SLO Transit.  Some bus routes have evening service when Cal Poly is in session (September thru June).  Check the SLO Transit map for details.

SLO Car Free Discount for 2009 and 2010: SLO Car Free registrants get a 20% discount off a tour at SLO Walking Tours**

SLO Walking Tours provides fun and informative walking tours – you’ll explore both historic and contemporary San Luis Obispo, ranging from the Mission, Old Chinatown and Bubble Gum Alley to cool galleries, theaters, cafes and restaurants frequented by SLO locals that you’ll enjoy discovering as well! We offer tours for individuals and groups that will be one of the highlights of your trip to SLO. Call for tour times and locations.

SLO Walking Tours
P.O. Box 15253
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406
Questions: Steve Akers, Owner
Phone: (805) 215-3228
Email: info@slowalkingtours.com

**Discount may not be combined with any other offer.

SLO Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010: 15% Discount off all regular priced items.

This exceptionally scenic brewpub location is highlighted with patio dining suspended over San Luis Creek.  Brilliant new stainless steel brewing equipment is the centerpiece of the restaurant.  The Menu is original, pairing fine ales and lagers with unique comfort food. Creekside Brewing Company serves lunch and dinner 7 days a week, starting at 11 am every day.  Bring your bus pass and let SLO Transit or the Downtown Trolley drop you off a half block away or ride your bike; we have a place for you to lock it up!

Creekside Brewing Company
1040 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 542-9804
Questions: John Moule, Owner
Email: brewers@creeksidebrewing.com

Hike Bishop’s Peak

What is that big hill just to the north of SLO?  The one with all the rocks on top?  Why it’s Bishop Peak, the tallest (at 1559’) of a dramatic range of hills called the Nine Sisters that run from SLO northeast to Morro Bay.  The Nine Sisters are volcanic in origin and most of them have very dramatic granite-like rock outcroppings.  A hike to the top or just along the flanks of Bishop Peak is one of the most popular day hikes in the SLO area, and with good reason.

View Larger Map

Most of the peak is designated open space with an excellent trail network and stunning views over the surrounding valleys and out to the ocean.  From the Patricia Street Trailhead (easily accessible by bus) you can hike directly to the top of the peak (2.2 miles each way and a 1200’ elevation gain/loss) or do the more moderate Felsman Loop (2.7 mile loop, 700’ elevation gain/loss).  Both hikes cross through open grasslands as well as oak forests.  The wildflowers in spring are often spectacular. Take a hike!

Bus directions to trailhead: From the SLO downtown Transit Center, take SLO Transit Route #1 north.  Get off at Patricia and Highland (about a 10 minute ride).  Walk about ½ mile north along Patricia to an obvious trailhead on the left side of the road.  For the return trip, return to the same stop and take the bus going in the same direction as the one you took originally.  Route #1 runs about once per hour during the days on weekdays.  For detailed bus route information and schedules, click here.

Trail map: The local Sierra Club Chapter has a printable trail map and guide to the Bishop Peak area. Click here.

Car Free Discount Offers for 2009 and 2010:  New customers receive a one time discount of 15% off an order of 36 servings or more!

Do you ever come near the end of a busy day and wonder, “What’s for dinner?” At Dream Dinners we answer that question for you. Our monthly menu includes over 14 different recipes each month, along with additional pre-assembled dinners, sides, breads and desserts ready for purchase while in one of our stores. A wide variety of options means there are plenty of meal preparation choices to satisfy everyone in the family. We provide eerything you need to assemble delicious dinners from easy-to-follow instructions to fresh, pre-cut ingredients. Learning how Dream Dinners works is easy!

Our great location is only a 5 minute bike ride from the Cal Poly campus or 15 minutes from Downtown San Luis Obispo. There are also SLO Transit bus stops located less than a block away and there is a bike rack right out in front of the store.

Dream Dinners is perfect if you are vacationing in a condo, timeshare, or if you are camping! Our meals are big on flavor but require little space in your fridge! Check us out or call if you have questions.

Dream Dinners Ferrini Square
795 E. Foothill Blvd, Suite B
San Luis Obispo, California 93405
Phone: (805) 786-4852
Questions: ferrinisquareca@dreamdinners.com

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Novo Restaurant

SLO Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010:  $5 off an order of $25 or more! **

Our restaurant has bike racks in from and the Downtown Trolley stops less than a block away!

Novo Restaurant
Robin Covey
726 Higuera St
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 543-3986

** Discount may not be combined with any other offer

Car Free Discount Offers for 2009 and 2010:  10% off discount!

Treat your taste buds to everything Louisa’s Place has to offer. Our family-style restaurant serves up the best selection of delicious food, including the best breakfast in town. Whether you are craving omelettes, buttermilk pancakes, or cinnamon rolls, we have it all!

Our convenient location is in downtown San Luis Obispo and only a 15 minute bike ride from the Cal Poly campus. We are also along the Downtown Trolley loop.  SLO Transit and RTA bus stops are located two blocks away and there is a bike rack right out in front of the restaurant.

Louisa’s Place
964 Higuera Street
San Luis Obispo, California 93401
Phone: (805) 541-0227
Questions: louisasplace@charter.net

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo

Cal Poly is a nationally ranked, four-year, comprehensive public university located in San Luis Obispo California. The emphasis of the University is a “learn by doing” educational experience for its more than 18,000+ students.  Many students seek admission to Cal Poly not only because of its excellent academic reputation, but also because the 6,000-acre main campus is nestled in the foothills of San Luis Obispo, just minutes from California’s Central Coast beaches.  Tour the University on your own, or register for a college specific tour.

Bus directions to Cal Poly: Take bus line 4, 5, or 6 directly from your hotel to the campus, or take one of these buses from the Downtown Transit Center.  Check the SLO Transit map for details or enter your hotel’s address and Cal Poly’s address (1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407-9000 (California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo: Student Academic Services)) into Rideshare’s Google Bus Trip Planner to find the best route.

SLO Car Free Discount Offer for 2009 and 2010:  $3 off a large pizza or $2 off a medium pizza.

Come and visit your neighborhood, family-owned pizza shop, where we are serving up more than just pizza. We offer a wide variety of menu items from pizza to delicious sandwiches and everything  is made fresh daily. We also have the finest selection of wine on the central coast!

We make it easy for your to get here car free, offering a bike rack on Santa Barbara Street and we are located just steps from bus stops on Broad and Santa Barbara and South Street.

Village Host Pizza and Grill
2138 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
(805) 543-4200

San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens

Come experience the diversity in plant life of the Mediterranean climate zones of the world in this educational and beautiful botanical garden.  Located just north of SLO in the El Chorro Regional Park the botanical gardens feature a preview garden with a small creek and a sustainably-constructed Educational Center.  The garden is open to the public daily during daylight hours.  Admission is free.  The business office and gift shop are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

www.slobg.org

View Larger Map

Bus directions to the SLO Botanical Gardens: From the San Luis Obispo Government Center (on Osos Street between Palm and Monterey streets), take Route 12A (Monday through Friday) or 12B (on Saturdays and Sundays) to Cuesta College Romauldo Road at Parking Lot #3 (about a 20 minute ride).  Cross HWY 1 at Hollister Ave at the traffic light to enter the El Chorro Regional Park.  Walk approximately 1 mile up Dairy Creek Road to the SLO Botanical Gardens.

Another idea: take your bike on the bus, or bike to the Botanical Gardens from SLO!

Walk and Taste San Luis Obispo!

Downtown San Luis Obispo has a number of tasting rooms that feature local wines from around the region!  Stop in at one or hop from one to the next, leisurely walking through the downtown or taking the SLO Trolley.  Many of the restaurants in the downtown carry local wines as well.  For a list of tasting rooms in the downtown, click here. 

Directions: Walk, bike or take SLO Transit to the Downtown Transit Center. Walk to down Higuera, Monterrey or Osos Street and stop in at any of the local wine bars.

View San Luis Obispo Downtown in a larger map

Just south of SLO lies one of the best winery areas in all of California for cycling, the Edna Valley.  There is bike path access from the Amtrak train station heading south to the edge of town, and then the fun begins.  Several loops are possible, with everything from a moderately easy 13 mile loop with very few hills to a longer 29 mile loop that has several interesting out and back additional options.  Every option is a scenic delight, with hills rising all around the valley and vineyards or ranches lining the roads. 

If you like to taste wine, there are numerous tasting rooms in the Edna Valley, and many even have bike racks!  Old Edna Café near the corner of Price Canyon Road and Hwy 227 is a very popular stop for local cyclists.  They have great coffee, a wonderful deli and very scenic grounds.  Many of the wineries also have picnic items for sale and delightful picnic areas.  Even if you don’t want to taste wine while riding, Edna Valley is the perfect place for a great bicycle ride right out of SLO.

For a detailed map of “Edna Valley Wineries By Bike” and suggested routes, click here.

For more bike rides or a detailed version of this ride, see Bike.

For more information on the wineries in the Edna Valley, check out the San Luis Obispo Vintners and Growers Association website.

For individual, small or large group biking wine tours, visit Central Coast Outdoors.

Experience the beautiful wine country of the Central Coast by private bus, shuttle or limousine!  Plan your trip today using the following listings for wine tour buses and shuttles:

San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center Wine Tour Listings

San Luis Obispo County Visitors & Conference Bureau Wine Tour Listings

San Luis Obispo County Visitors & Conference Bureau Activities Listings

SLO Bike Club Recommended Bike Rides

The Sierra Club Santa Lucia Chapter Hiking Information

Hostel Obispo Bike and Hiking Information

Edible San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Markets

San Luis Obispo State Parks Hiking, Mountain Biking, Beaches, Windsurfing, Picnicking, Tide pools, Surfing, and Camping Information

Things to do in Morro Bay

Morro Bay Museum of Natural History

For more ideas, see Walking Around and Biking Around .

Car Free Discount Offers for 2009 and 2010:  10% off Standard Room Rates**

A romantic beachfront resort, the Sea Venture is located right on the sand in the heart of California’s Central Coast. The resort’s marble finishes and custom furnishings combined with its unique location to create the ultimate California beach experience.  

The SeaVenture Resort, one of the premier California beachfront hotels, offers luxury accommodations in Pismo Beach, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. With miles of clean, pristine sand and surf, a perfect climate, and a convenient location off Highway 101, Pismo Beach remains surprisingly quiet and quaint, one of California’s best-kept secrets. Click here for a virtual tour.

Your comfortable room, with private balcony and hot tub, will refresh you from the day’s outdoor activies: surfing, kayaking, bicycling, fishing, golf, as well as shopping for antiques in town. Stretch out on the warm sands of Pismo Beach and stroll on the boardwalk to the pier, just to catch the sunset and a sea breeze.

To get to the Sea Venture from San Luis Obispo by bus, take the SLO RTA Route 10 to the Pismo Prime Outlets and connect with SCAT Route 24 which arrives at 3 minutes after ever hour! Also, if you are coming from the Grover Beach Amtrak Station and looking for a nice walk through the Monarch Butterfly Grove and a chance to really experience beautiful Pismo Beach, it is only 1.5 miles away from the station!

Sea Venture Resort
100 Ocean View Ave
Pismo Beach, California 93449
Phone: (805) 773-4994
info@seaventure.com

**Discount not to be combined with any other package or special. Must mention SLO Car Free when making reservations.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Tolosa Press: SLO City News

By Jack Beardwood

Car Free San Luis Obispo rewards visitors and local residents, who jettison their cars and walk, bike, ride the train and use public transportation. By pledging to travel to or around San Luis Obispo without a car, you can receive special incentives from participating hotels, restaurants, transportation services and attractions.

 “Imagine taking the train along the coast, hopping on a trolley to experience our historic downtown, riding SLO transit from your hotel to the weekly Farmers’ Market, biking through vineyards, hiking the surrounding peaks, kayaking to Morro Rock, or renting an alternative fueled vehicle to explore Hearst Castle or see the elephant seals and monarch butterflies,” said Meghan Field, program manager for Car Free San Luis Obispo (and an air quality specialist for the county Air Pollution Control District). “That beats the stress of traffic, wrong turns or the occasional speeding ticket any day.”

How do you get your discounts? When you sign up online at slocarfree.org, you are sent an email with a link to a voucher. All you have to do is print it.

There are 15 hotels, including lodgings in Pismo Beach, Avila Beach and Morro Bay that offer a 10 percent discount to non-drivers. Nine restaurants offer a variety of incentives.

There are also discounts offered for Breakaway Tours’ wine tour to Edna Valley or Paso Robles, Hearst Castle Theater, Central Coast Outdoors (biking, kayaking and hiking), SLO Walking Tours, and Beach Butlerz, which provides beach furniture, beach spa services, meals at the beach, and other “beach-ware.”

For people who have to drive, you can get Car Free San Luis Obispo credits by using alternative fuel vehicles provided by funride of San Luis Obispo (myfunride.com).

Perhaps the biggest lure of all is the 20 percent discount on Amtrak’s Surfliner route, which runs from San Diego to San Luis Obispo. The train has space for a limited number of walk-on bicycles that ride for free. If not, there is a $15 charge for having it travel in a box. To avoid the fee, make a reservation for your bikes.

Since they started the program in November, more than 300 people have made the Car Free pledge. In only four months as part of the promotion, 165 participants have taken the Amtrak.

 “I think one of the biggest benefits is our program offers a lot of information to visitors on how to get around without their car,” Field said. “Sometimes it can be a little scary to travel to a different city without a car. We are trying to make it as easy as possible. We also have great discounts. A lot of people have said they think that’s the best part of our Web site, is in this tough economy having a little bit of an incentive to travel and getting a discount at the same time.”

Local businesses also benefit from advertising on their Website, as well as ads that Car Free San Luis Obispo has run in the Monterey County Herald, New Times and Central Coast Magazine.

They also teamed up with Amtrak for an advertisement that ran in Sunset Magazine’s (sunset.com) Web site and included information on a wide variety of county attractions.

Local businesses also get exposure on Car Free’s Facebook page.

Representatives of businesses who would like to become a part of the promotion should call Field at 781-5912. If you recruit a business to join you can get a free gift card from Jamba Juice.

Field said it is not just for tourists; it also encourages ‘stay-cations.’ “If you live here and you want to try something new, go to Hearst Castle without your car, or maybe take the Amtrak down to Santa Barbara. We encourage people to do that here too, because any reduction in trips taken by their cars is beneficial.”

Car Free SLO is supported by a coalition of organizations, including the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce, San Luis Obispo County Visitors Bureau, the City of San Luis Obispo, Rideshare and Amtrak. Most of their operating funds come from grants.

It was created by the APCD and patterned after Santa Barbara’s program. “When you get down to it this is really about cleaning up the air, protecting the sources that we have here in San Luis Obispo,” Field said. “We thought it was a really viable program for us to start.”

“I love that Car Free San Luis Obispo is promoting ways to get around the county without driving,” said Aimee Wyatt of San Luis Obispo. “As a visitor, it’s easy to take Amtrak into San Luis or Grover Beach or Paso Robles and there is easy bus connection from any of those locations around the county.”

Wyatt is an employee of the Regional Transit Authority of San Luis Obispo County. Her sister, Anne Wyatt, owns the Bridge Street Inn in Cambria, which offers free bicycle use to Car Free SLO participants.

“San Luis has beautiful bike trails and lots of things to do, shuttles for the wine tasting tours, kayak trips in Morro Bay,” Aimee Wyatt said. “Visitors can get up to Hearst Castle car free. It takes a little work and that’s where the Car Free Web site can help with great descriptions and information on how to get around without driving. It’s fun, It’s good for the environment and it saves money.”

“I think it’s wonderful on many levels,” said John Flaherty, owner of Central Coast Outdoors. “The most important thing, of course, is that it encourages people to reduce their carbon use, which I think is one of the biggest issues facing the world today,   climate change. Anything we can do to lower our carbon output is good. I also think it’s a wonderful program because it gets people out and walking and bicycling and hiking and experiencing the world in a much more intimate and physical manner, rather than from behind a windshield.”

Ventura County Star

by: David Loe

An organization called Car Free San Luis Obispo is issuing travelers an invitation: Come enjoy our beautiful city but leave your car at home.

What a way to celebrate Independence Day. Plan a trip independent of gas stations!

Tisha and I decided to take the challenge and even one-up them. We’d attempt to make it a totally green trip from the minute we left our house to the minute we returned home. We’d ride our bikes to the local Amtrak stations, put our bikes on the train, bicycle or walk exclusively while in San Luis Obispo, and come back the same way.

We not only succeeded, it was a lot of fun. It’s a trip I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys either walking or pedaling. You’ll return home with a great feeling of accomplishment, and, as you’ll see, it’s not that tough to pull off.

Let’s start with the train. There’s one Amtrak Surfliner each day that goes all the way to San Luis Obispo. It leaves in the morning from various stations throughout Ventura County and arrives in San Luis during the noon hour. Bicycle riders will love the fact that, on the Surfliner, bikes ride free.

The train ride is a treat for those of us who have driven the 101 north many times because it offers a lot of fresh scenery. Once you reach Gaviota, you won’t set eyes on the freeway again the entire trip. Instead, you’ll be introduced to a historic route that takes you past Point Conception and then right through normally off-limits Vandenberg Air Force Base. The ocean view out the window is spectacular, and looking inland you might even spot a rocket on a gantry being prepared for launch, as we did. I was genuinely sorry to see the train ride end just three hours after leaving Ventura.

If you trudged car-free to your local Amtrak station at the start of your journey, you’ll be relieved to know that “motel row” in San Luis Obispo is just a little more than a mile from the train station. On upper Monterey Street you’ll find lots of nice choices. We selected TripAdvisor’s No. 1 listing, San Luis Creek Lodge, and I can see why it is so highly rated. It’s a locally owned and operated facility that seems more like a bed-and-breakfast than a motel. The rooms were spacious enough that we could secure our bikes overnight in our room.

You’ll find plenty to keep you busy in San Luis Obispo. The city’s downtown is justly renown for its collection of restaurants, movie theaters, and interesting shops. It’s all just a pleasant 15-minute walk from the motels on upper Monterey Street. Don’t bypass Frank’s Famous Hot Dogs on your stroll downtown. It’s on the corner of California and Monterey. It’s slogan of “big weenies are better” was confirmed with the biggest and tastiest hot dogs I’ve had in years.

We stayed two nights before taking the Surfliner back to Ventura County. In addition to exploring downtown, we downloaded some bike maps of the city and surrounding area and took an exploratory bicycle ride each day. If you’re feeling energetic, try the route that goes to the ocean at Los Osos. Go early before the wind comes up, have lunch there and let the afternoon tail wind help push you back to your motel.

We also enjoyed a nice ride through the local wine-growing areas just outside of town.

San Luis Obispo is the starting point for the daily 2 p.m. Surfliner back to Ventura County, so it’s almost always on time. An eager attendant was waiting in the baggage car to receive our bikes. All I had to do was pass them up to her. I found it necessary, but quite easy, to recruit some help amongst my fellow passengers to lift them up over my head and into storage.

Ready to try a car-free getaway? Even if you’ve enjoyed a weekend in San Luis Obispo before, we found that doing it this way makes it a new and even more satisfying experience.

— David Loe worked for 25 years in the travel business in Ventura County. Contact him at davidloe@sbcglobal.net.

To read this article on the Ventura County Star Website, please click here. The article includes business reviews and photos.

District Receives National Award From U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for Santa Barbara Car Free Project.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (District) today announced that its Santa Barbara Car Free project has received a national 2009 Clean Air Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The District is one of only fifteen award recipients from around the country that were honored at a May 26, 2010 ceremony in Washington, D.C.

California 23rd District Congresswoman Lois Capps remarked, “I am very proud of the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District and the Santa Barbara Car Free Project and its many partners. It’s good to see the Project’s work for sustainable tourism – and a sustainable community – honored with this national award.”

District Director Terry Dressler said, “We are so honored to be selected for this award. We thank our area partners for the outstanding collaboration that has made this project possible.” Santa Barbara Car Free was honored in the Community Action category. The Project, founded in 1998 and led by the District, is supported by the City of Santa Barbara, Amtrak California® and more than 100 partners— business, organizations, and individuals—working together to promote car free travel to and around Santa Barbara for cleaner air and a healthier planet.

 Gina McCarthy, EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation, said, “Innovation and commitment are the keys to environmental progress, and our Clean Air Excellence Award winners are tremendous examples. As we look to the future, these winners will help lead the way toward cleaner air and a healthier environment.” 

 The Clean Air Excellence Awards Program, established in 2000 at the recommendation of the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee, annually recognizes and honors outstanding innovative efforts to help make progress in achieving cleaner air. Award-winning entries must directly or indirectly reduce pollutant emissions, demonstrate innovation, offer sustainable outcomes, and provide a model for others to follow.

Santa Barbara Car Free partners will be honored at the District’s Board meeting June 17, 2010 (1:30 PM at the Board of Supervisors’ Hearing Room, 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara).

For more information see the EPA website http://www.epa.gov/air/caaac/recipients.html and visit http://www.SantaBarbaraCarFree.org.

Car Free Discount Offers for 2009 and 2010:  10% off Standard Room Rates**

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort rests atop hot mineral springs and spans more than 100 acres of forest, hills and meadows. Our resort is the ideal environmentl to refresh, renew and restore one’s mind, body and spirit. Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort is also part of istaygreen.org, to qualify for this Green Eco-leaf Rating, Sycamore completed an audit of their property’s compliance with over 70 unique eco-initiatives. Environmentally friendly measures that are reviewed include energy efficiency, water conservation, recycling, purchasing habits and many other factors. In it’s efforts to create a more sustainable travel future and reduce their impact on our environment, Sycamore Mineral Springs employs 49 eco-initiatives!

Sycamore is conveniently located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles with shuttles to and from the airport and both trainstations (Grover Beach and San Luis Obispo). Sycamore uses naturally-occuring hot mineral water to heat their swimming pools and offers menu items made from local and sustainable ingredients at the onsite Gardens of Avila Restaurant. They also offer bike rentals, perfect for a great ride to the beach on the Bob Jones trail!

Check out all that Sycamore Mineral Springs has to offer, today!

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort
1215 Avila Beach Drive
San Luis Obispo, California 93405
Phone: (805) 595-7302
Questions: Stephi Bowman
info@smsr.com

**Discount not to be combined with any other package or special. Must mention SLO Car Free when making reservations.

For a map of all the hotels offering Car Free discounts, see Maps.

Local Tourism Set to Go Green

by Camas Frank

The county should brace itself for a wave of ecofriendly tourists. At least that’s the hope of a group of local businesses that have banded together in an effort to promote a new vision for sight seers, one without a car.

The San Luis Obispo Air Pollution Control District (APCD)’s SLO Car Free program kicked off Nov. 19 with a ribbon, and cake-cutting ceremony with County Supervisor Katcho Achadjian, who chairs the APCD board. Representatives from local hotels, tour companies, and transport services packed into the San Luis Obispo Regional Airport’s massive hanger for the festivities.

The airport is partnering with the APCD’s efforts in part because travelers who commit to leave their car behind will still need a way to get here. Thanks to new engine designs, said San Luis Jet Center president William Borgsmiller, the math works out to make air travel one of the less destructive transportation methods, at least in terms of the planet’s acreage consumed

While the event wasn’t as heavily attended by members of the general public as the organizers had hoped, those that did turn out were treated to a raffle of prizes, live music from a band made up of APCD employees and the unusual sight of a large penguin riding a bike around the hanger. Andy Mutziger said of his black and white costume, “I’m just telling people that if a penguin can ride a bike, anybody can.”

“The whole purpose of the event and program is to educate the public on the options we have available,”Achadjian said. “The Air Quality Control District’s goal with it is to reduce our carbon foot print. Not all the infrastructure is ready so everyone can afford to change their travel yet, but showcasing what we already have in place is what’s important.”

He also noted that like the Santa Barbara program it’s modeled after, the Car Free program shows visitors that if they commit to a car free experience and are wiling to adjust their time schedules, everything the region offers becomes available.

To take part in the program, potential visitors log on to www.slocarfree.com and pledge not to use a private vehicle during their stay. In return they become eligible for discounts on services related to all aspects of their stay, from hotel rooms to restaurants and outdoor activities. Of course, help finding alternative transportation is critical.

Deals include free bike rentals with a stay at Hostel Obispo and sign up fees reduced to $25 for use of local company FunRide’s fleet of green vehicles. Both provide the flexibility of autonomous transit during a stay but reduced rates are also available for bus services and airport shuttles.

For those more interested in ease of a package deal, tours in wine country are available from the charter services provided by the airport based Wine Country Charters, to the wine education tours of Breakaway Tours, which ranges from Paso Robles to Santa Barbara.

For the restless souls, Central Coast Outdoors provides hiking and kayaking excursions in Morro Bay and Big Sur ranging from $50 to $100, meeting guests at their hotel and shuttling to the tour site. Owner John Flaherty said he had looked forward to raising awareness of the eco-friendly possibilities.

 “I remember saying to the tourism board awhile ago, ‘God, wouldn’t it be great to have a green tourism event to show everything around here?’ and they recently told me, ‘Guess what?’” Flaherty’s enthusiasm was mirrored by other participants who said they are looking forward to the program’s expected success. “We already encourage people to come to SLO and we’d love to have them do it car free,” Carrie Head, communications manager of the San Luis Obispo County Visitors and Conference Bureau, said. “We have over 500 members and all of the hotels are excited about it. They see it as a great vehicle for the industry, if you’ll pardon the pun.”