It is located behind the San Luis Obispo County Historical Museum. Exhibits encompass local and Native American history. Just beyond the city's historic core lie the Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, the railroad district, and the site of the nation's first motel, which opened for business in December of 1925 and catered to travelers along the historic El Camino Real, now known as Highway 101. For family enjoyment, one museum in town caters specifically to kids. These hand-on exhibits stimulate imaginations and invite exploration.
Visitors can explore the great outdoors as well.
Another popular outdoor activity is the Farmers' Market. The central coast offers some of the most spectacular vistas in the state so getting to San Luis Obispo is half the fun. The town's historic sites, outdoor retreats, and cultural and culinary delights provide several more good reasons to take the spring jaunt. Directions By car, San Luis Obispo is located 200 miles north of Los Angeles and 230 miles south of San Francisco on U.S. Highway 101 and State Highway 1. From the Bay Area, the most direct route is U.S. 101 south, which takes about four hours.