Children and Teen Activities

SLO County is a very family-oriented, kid-friendly place to vacation. Besides the many outdoor activities that will keep you children busy, there are many other options to keep them entertained and happy!

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is the fifth California mission founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1772. The mission is located in the heart of downtown and the church is still active. Mission Plaza serves as the site of many special events throughout the year.

Morro Bay Natural History Museum

The Morro Bay State Park Natural History Museum displays many educational and interesting exhibits about the environs around Morro Bay. There are nature videos shown daily and special events featuring information on birds, whales, sea otters, geology, Chumash Indians and much more.

San Luis Obispo State Parks

There is no better way to enjoy the outdoors than to visit one of the many state parks that the Central Coast offers. The crown jewel of the coastal area parks is Montano de Oro State Park in Los Osos with its great hiking trails and breathtaking views of the rugged coast line. Don’t miss the chance to drive on the beach like days gone by at Pismo State Park Beach.

Art Classes for Children

Would your children like to participate in a fun art class while you are visiting the central coast? If so, check out the schedule at Monart to see what might be on offer while you are vacationing here.

Charles Paddock Zoo

The Charles Paddock Zoo is home to hundreds of animal species from around the world. Many of the zoo residents are part of globally managed programs to preserve animals and their habitats. The Charles Paddock Zoo is truly dedicated to the conservation of local and exotic species. If you want to engage with some of the rarest animals in the world in a safe and respectful environment then you will surely want to visit our Zoo. We have so much to offer, including: camps, classes, birthday parties and more!

Location: 9100 Morro Road, Atascadero, California
Phone: 805.461.5080

Local Activities for Families and Children

Check out the many different activities, events and attractions designed to entertain your children, no matter what age they are.

Hearst Castle

One of the most famous museums/attractions in the United States is Hearst Castle. It is a must see when you visit the Central Coast.

Location: San Simeon
Toll Free: 800-444-4445

San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens

Don’t miss taking your children (and yourself) to the wonderful SLO Botanical Gardens. They offer some fun and educational programs for kids and you will enjoy it too! It is located on Hwy 1 across from Cuesta Community College.

Santa Barbara Mission

Founded by the Franciscan Friar Fermín de Lasuén on the Feast of St. Barbara, December 4th, 1786, Old Mission Santa Barbara, also known as the Queen of the Missions, has a history unlike any other landmark. We invite you to learn about its rich and diverse history, enjoy it’s beautiful gardens and surroundings, and discover what makes this mission one of the most unique and interesting destinations in the world.

Santa Barbara Zoo

The Santa Barbara Zoo is dedicated to the preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural world and its living treasures through education, research, and recreation.

Sandprints Photography

While on vacation on the beautiful Central Coast, why not capture your family`s spirit and love of the area with a family photo shoot? We specialise in breath-taking beach photography on location in Los Osos, Morro Bay, Cayucos and Avila Beach. Stop by our studio at 870 Main Street in Morro Bay to chat about your dream family portrait! Or simply call anytime, (805) 550-9386

Location: 870 Main Street, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Phone: (805) 550-9386

Skateboarding

If your kids are in to skateboarding, then they definitely need to check out the Los Osos Skate Park near the Los Osos Community Center. This 6,000 sq. feet park has a street course, grind rails, asphalt slab and wooden jumps. HELMETS and PADS ARE REQUIRED! It is a free park and is open from dawn to dusk.

Location: Los Osos Valley Road and Palisades Ave., Los Osos