The area surrounding Los Angeles is packed with a surprising variety of charming towns, from laid-back beach escapes to alpine villages with wide-open views… Each destination offers its own version of California’s appeal.
In that mix, one Central Coast town has just earned major recognition. According to USA Today 10Best, Paso Robles’ main street, Spring Street, ranks among the most beautiful in the country and has been named the best in the state, standing out for its charm, walkability, and distinctly local atmosphere.
The ranking also highlights the town’s appeal as a classic stopover, set in a region known for its hot springs and laid-back vibe. Its historic downtown is centered around a lively city park just off Highway 101, with restaurants, shops, and cultural spots all within easy reach.
Best things to do when visiting Paso Robles
One of Paso Robles’ most distinctive features is its natural hot springs, which have shaped the area’s identity for over a century. Today, they’re still at the center of the local wellness scene, with spots like River Oaks Hot Springs Spa offering private mineral baths in a relaxed setting just outside downtown.
Beyond the city center, the landscape opens into a countryside filled with oak-dotted hills, vineyards, and wide agricultural valleys that define the Central Coast’s inland scenery. It’s a drive-friendly area where short detours quickly turn into postcard views, especially along roads like Adelaida Road and Highway 46 West.
Back in town, a key stop is Sensorio, an outdoor light installation set across open hills just outside downtown. Designed by artist Bruce Munro, it transforms the landscape at night into a glowing field of light, becoming one of the region’s most talked-about attractions.
