Things to Do
We spend most of our time in Paso Robles hopping between wineries, and with over 200 to choose from, every visit feels different. Our go-to route starts on the west side of Highway 101 where the hillside vineyards produce incredible Rhone varietals — tastings run $15-$25 and often include five to six pours. DAOU Vineyards ($30 tasting) has a mountaintop terrace with panoramic views that alone are worth the drive. On the east side, look for bold Cabernets and Zinfandels at producers like J. Lohr (free basic tasting) and Eberle Winery ($15 with a free cave tour).
We never miss Sensorio when it is running — Bruce Munro’s Field of Light installation is 15 acres of 58,000 solar-powered fiber optic stems that glow in shifting colors after sunset. Tickets are $30-$85 depending on the experience package. Arrive before sunset to watch the lights slowly come alive against the golden hills. It is genuinely one of the most magical outdoor art experiences we have encountered anywhere.
Tin City is our favorite afternoon stop. This industrial park has been transformed into a vibrant district of small-lot winemakers, craft breweries, and distilleries. Tin City Cider ($8-$12 per pour), Barrelhouse Brewing ($7 pints), and Wine Shine (wine-based spirits, tastings $15) are highlights. We always grab lunch at Fish Gaucho next door for inventive tacos ($5-$7 each) before continuing the rounds.
Where to Stay
The Paso Robles Inn in the heart of downtown is our favorite mid-range pick, with rooms from $180-$280 per night. The real draw is the private hot spring mineral tubs on select room balconies — soaking under the stars after a day of wine tasting is pure bliss. The inn has been around since 1891 and sits right on the town square.
For a luxury wine country experience, the Hotel and Spa at Paso or Allegretto Vineyard Resort both deliver. Rooms start around $350-$450, and the grounds at both properties are gorgeous. Summerwood Winery and Inn offers an intimate B&B experience right among the vines with rates around $300-$400 including a wine-paired breakfast.
Budget travelers can find solid options at the Adelaide Inn ($90-$140), which is clean, well-maintained, and has a pool — honestly one of the best budget motels we have stayed at in California. There are also several vacation rentals and Airbnbs in the area, including converted ranch properties and vineyard cottages that can be great value for groups at $150-$250 per night.
Where to Eat
The Paso Robles food scene has exploded in recent years. We love The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar downtown for their wood-fired rotisserie chicken ($22) and creative cocktails ($14-$16). Thomas Hill Organics sources almost everything from local farms, with entrees in the $24-$38 range — the seasonal risotto is always outstanding.
For casual dining, we head to Fish Gaucho for upscale Mexican-inspired seafood (entrees $16-$28) or grab burgers at Firestone Grill ($10-$14), a local chain that originated in SLO but has a beloved Paso location. The downtown square hosts a fantastic farmers market on Saturday mornings where we stock up on local almonds, olive oil, and artisan cheese for picnic lunches at the wineries.
Breakfast at Joe’s Place ($10-$15) is a Paso tradition — hearty portions and strong coffee to fuel a day of tasting. For a splurge dinner, Les Petites Canailles serves French-inspired cuisine with local ingredients ($32-$52 entrees) in an intimate setting. Their wine list is naturally stellar, focusing on local producers with by-the-glass options from $14-$22.
Getting Around
A car is essential in Paso Robles — the wineries are spread across rolling hills and rural roads that have no transit service. We always designate a driver or book a wine tour. Several companies offer guided tours starting around $125-$175 per person that include tastings and lunch, which removes the stress of navigating and makes the day more fun.
Downtown Paso is very walkable and has a dozen tasting rooms within a few blocks of the central square. If you base yourself downtown, you could spend an entire day tasting without needing a car at all. Parking downtown is free and usually plentiful except during major festivals and events.
Ride-sharing services are available but can be unreliable during busy weekends, and wait times get long in the rural winery areas. If you want to explore independently, consider renting a car in San Luis Obispo ($50-$80 per day) where you will find major rental agencies at the airport. The 30-mile drive up Highway 101 from SLO to Paso takes about 30 minutes.