Spend Summer at Home – A “Staycation” in Atascadero
Summer vacation can be expensive and time consuming, which is why many families are choosing to vacation at home, taking a “Staycation.” When you live in a place like the Central Coast its easy to vacation in your own backyard! Atascadero is one of those places that offers many family activities, making staying at home for summer enjoyable.
ACTIVITIES
The Charles Paddock Zoo
Depending on how much time you have, the Charles Paddock Zoo can be enjoyed for a couple hours or for the day, coupled with time at the nearby park. It is a great place to bring the whole family. There are hundreds of animal species, including red pandas, a Malayan tiger, lemurs and meerkats.
Atascadero Lake Park
The Atascadero Lake Park is conveniently located near the zoo, if you want to enjoy both on the same day. It has a beautiful 1-mile loop around the lake, a playground for kids to enjoy, open areas for any four-legged friends, picnic tables, and a children’s care center.
Galaxy Theatres
Galaxy Theatres is a modern theater that offers the most current movies. Adult (21+) attendees can enjoy wine or beer with their film in the special VIP lounge, including seat-side drink service.
City Hall Tours
Atascadero’s City Hall boasts some of the most beautiful architecture on the Central Coast. The Historic City Hall is over 100 years old, and recently won a state Preservation Award. There are docent-led tours for free, Monday – Thursday at 12pm (or by appointment). The tour offers a history both of City Hall and of Atascadero in general.
Hiking
The Central Coast is blessed to be surrounded by mountains with great trails for hiking. One of the best trails is Cerro Alto, right off Highway 41 between Atascadero and Morro Bay. You can do the long hike or the short hike, but both are moderately challenging so bring a water bottle and some snacks.
GOOD EATS
Sylvester’s
Sylvester’s is a locally famous burger joint that offers some of the most delicious burgers you can find. Whether you’re in the mood for a light 1/3 pound burger or ready to take on the 5-pound burger challenge, Sylvester’s delivers a quality, delicious burger that doesn’t disappoint. Don’t forget to add a milkshake and fries!
Guest House Grill
Guest House Grill adds to the rustic California feel of Atascadero with a delicious menu and wide variety of local beer and wine. Started as a Cal Poly senior project, this restaurant has grown in popularity and is widely considered one of the best restaurants on the Central Coast.
BEER AND WINE TASTING
Atascadero Creek Winery
Atascadero Creek Winery is a relatively new establishment with a beautiful tasting room. The vintner, Bob Appleby, will tempt you with the best they have, including a Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Syrah Port.
Tent City Brewing Company
Formerly Molly Pitcher, Tent City offers five of their own house beers and a variety of the best local craft beers. Their taps rotate every week so there is always something new to try. With a shuffleboard table in the back it’s a great place to bring friends.
Bristol’s Cider House
Bristol’s Cider House is part of local winery, Lone Madrone, and offers delicious cider created from local apples from See Canyon and Paso Robles. Their cider has a real kick and the tasting room is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends.
