A popular road trip for both NoCal and SoCal weekenders, Paso Robles is quickly becoming a go-to destination for vinophiles looking for something outside the Napa Valley. Yes, wine is abundant and delicious in this pastoral region, about 30-40 minutes from coast. But there are plenty of other treasures to be found in and around the delightful downtown area … from the edible, like olive oils tasting and sheep’s milk ice cream … to experiential, with a number of motels-turned-boutique hotels to choose from.

Where to Stay

The creators of Skyview Los Alamos have done it again with two newly redesigned vintage properties. The first, River Lodge, greets visitors from the 101 right where it meets Highway 46 to Cambria. Housed on three acres, this midcentury treasure has been updated with hammocks outside each cabin door and stylish, Southwest inspired furnishings. Still in beautiful original form is a round brick fireplace, the literal centerpiece of the cozy lobby. A large pool deck offers ample space for lounging, with the amazing and delicious Ciao Papi al fresco restaurant and bar splashing distance away.

Down Spring Street towards downtown Paso, Farmhouse charms with country-style cottages that preserve much of the 1947 motel’s original character. Lemon trees, found both on property and in some of the décor, blend with fountains, firepits and lounge chairs for an appealing and relaxing landscape. Both hotels also offer bikes for easy commuting around town.

Where to Eat

With so much local produce in their own backyard, the restaurant and cafes of Paso enjoy a farm-to-table sensibility that’s easy to love. Thomas Hill Organics, an old downtown favorite, still delights with seasonally sourced ingredients that highlight their brunch, lunch and dinner menus. Around the corner, you’ll find another local star, BL Brassiere (formerly Bistro Laurant) serving up all the French classics with a fine wine list. 

A bit outside the downtown area, Tin City hosts dozens of businesses, including many tasting room and eateries. Standouts include the Etto Pasta Bar and adjacent market, where you’ll find Italian dishes to enjoy in person and all the ingredients you’ll need to make an amazing one yourself at home. Both Tin City and downtown feature a Negranti Creamery outpost, where you can enjoy a scoop of sheep’s milk ice cream. A must try! 

For coffee or breakfast, check out H. Cheval in downtown for your morning caffeine hit and a breakfast burrito. If you’re craving something more substantial, you’ll find all the fixings at both Joe’s Place and The Coffee Shop at the Paso Robles Inn.

What to Do

This is wine country, so there’s no shortage of pastoral wineries or tasting rooms to choose from. One of our favorites is Tablas Creek Vineyard, tucked in the oak laced hillsides outside of town. A friendship between two families, one French and the other American, led to this unique and forward-thinking winemaking business that was the first in the world to be Regenerative Organic Certified®. Inheriting the tradition of the Rhone Valley in France, the wines combine old world refinement with a distinctly Californian point of view. Enjoy your reds or whites with an informative tasting on their outdoor terrace and take a few home to enjoy later.

But it’s not only wine you can sample in Paso, there’s also an abundance of delicious olive oils on the itinerary. A short drive from downtown, Kiler Ridge Olive Farm not only offers a wonderful tasting experience, but a hillside view to boot. Try their different varieties straight from the cup (no bread dipping required) and finish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt. 

Back in town there’s plenty of shopping, including a number of antique stores to keep you curious for hours. General Store Paso Robles is your spot for local goods and fun souvenirs. Here you’ll find handmade products, like soaps and ceramics, plus edible treats and cookbooks.  Across the way, art lovers will love perusing the walls of Studios on the Park, a large collective of local artists, from painters to photographers. 

Finish off your Paso day with a visit to the town’s speakeasy, Eleven Twenty Two Cocktail Lounge. Hiding behind Irish pub Pappy McGregors, this secret piece of heaven will serve up a number of dazzling and very drinkable cocktails, from the classics to the showstopping. Cheers!