Paso Robles 3-Day Itinerary: An Idyllic Escape for Wine Lovers
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Are you a wine enthusiast in search of your next weekend getaway? If so, I have the perfect 3-day weekend itinerary for you in the picturesque town of Paso Robles, CA. This post outlines all of the must-see spots and answers many frequently asked questions about this bustling California wine region, home to more than 200 wineries and 26,000 acres of sprawling vineyards.
Where Exactly is Paso Robles?
Paso Robles is a city located in the Californian county of San Luis Obispo at the approximate midway point between Los Angeles and San Francisco. This city is formally named El Paso de Robles which translates to “The Pass of the Oaks” in Spanish.
How to Correctly Pronounce Paso Robles?
Allow me to let you in on a little tip, so you do not make the same mistake as my husband and I did as first-time visitors. You can save yourself the embarrassment by properly pronouncing this city’s name as PASS-oh ROH-buhlz.
Is Paso Robles Worth Visiting?
Do you enjoy a glass of wine overlooking miles of picturesque rolling vineyards or perhaps jamming out to live music with an ice cold drink in hand? If your answer to either scenario is YES, then you will greatly appreciate a trip to Paso Robles wine country.
Although Paso Robles has been commercially producing wine since back in 1882, it is now the fastest growing wine region in California with popularity soaring even higher in recent years. However, when compared to its notorious counterpart, Napa Valley, it still feels like a wonderfully kept secret. Plus, it offers tourists a wide array of premier wines at a more economical price point.
History of the Paso Robles Region
From early on, the lands of Paso Robles have always been considered as “fruitful” in some sense of the word. It was termed as a place of restoration and rejuvenation, dating back to the Native Americans’ fascination of the natural thermal springs and their medicinal properties. By the late 1800s, the vision for this region grew to become known as a “health resort” by harnessing the power of plentiful hot springs and unique mud baths. Optimal growing conditions also began to popularize wine-making around the same time period, as grapes grew in abundance.
What Type of Wine is Paso Robles Well-Known For?
Paso Robles boasts more than 200 wineries to choose from, offering a vast selection of wines. However, their specialty can be narrowed down to Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Rhône-style blends. The culmination of warm temperatures, dry air, coastal breeze, elevation, and rich soil conditions aid in the creation of unique mesoclimates, allowing for more than 60 different grape varieties to flourish throughout the area’s long-lasting growing season.
When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Paso Robles?
Luckily, the state of California is known for its mild seasonal changes and idyllic weather. Though there are always pros and cons to consider when choosing which time of year to visit, Paso Robles is a special destination that can be enjoyed year-round!
We visited in early May and were pleasantly met with daily temperatures ranging from highs in the low 80s and lows in the upper 40s. In general, this region does not experience much rain, but May through September are the driest months. While December through March are the wettest and coolest with average highs spanning from 61 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
How Many Days Do You Need in Paso Robles?
I recommend spending 3 full days in Paso Robles and the surrounding areas, over the course of a long weekend, in order to see and experience the best this city has to offer. My top suggestions on exactly what to do and where to go are detailed in the Paso Robles itinerary below.
Paso Robles Itinerary Overview (3-Day Weekend)
Save this Paso Robles itinerary to use for your upcoming trip or inspiration for your next long weekend adventure.
DAY 1 – Friday Paso Robles Itinerary
Travel to Paso Robles, CA
During our visit, we flew from Denver to the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, rented a car, and drove approximately 40 minutes to Paso Robles. I would recommend flying into SLO as the most convenient option, although it is not the most cost effective. For other ways to arrive at this destination, refer to the “How to travel to Paso Robles” excerpt below.
Winery Hop in Templeton
Templeton is a town situated just 10 minutes south of Paso Robles. Otherwise referred to as greater Paso, the plentiful vineyards also encompass this central California region. Which is why I recommend an entire day exploring some of the wonderful wineries it has to offer.
11:00AM: Winery #1 – Niner Wine Estates for Lunch
This upscaled wine estate takes great pride in their sustainability efforts in both farming and wine-making to ensure their vineyards remain flourishing for many years to come. By investing in onsite solar power infrastructure, a water reclamation system, and certifications such as LEED and SIP, they are extremely focused on greener ways to harness energy and protect our planet’s future. Which ultimately makes supporting this winery very easy to do.
Tasting Fee: $40 per person to sample four wines
Tasting Reservations: REQUIRED, recommend booking a couple weeks in advanced for your desired date and time (book your tasting HERE)
Unique Offerings: Each reservation time consists of a combined wine tasting and culinary experience. This is one of the few wineries in the region that also provides an in-house restaurant, boasting a seasonally curated and changing menu.
You are also more than welcome to bring along your furry, four-legged friends while seated on the patio.
1:00PM: Winery #2 – Tooth & Nail Wine Company
It’s hard to miss this winery if casually driving by…why you might ask? Well, it looks like a giant white castle, surrounded by a real-life moat and decked out in gothic charm! Their restaurant offers delicious lighter fare from 11AM-5PM. However, one of my favorite features about Tooth & Nail is that their wine bottle labels are all designed by local artists.
Tasting Fee: $40 per person
Tasting Reservations: REQUIRED, reserve in advanced online or by phone (book your tasting HERE)
Unique Offerings: Join for live music at their “Castle Sunday Brunch” every Sunday from 11AM-2PM.
Or book a unique two-hour guided “Vine to Wine” tour that grants an insider look at the wine-making process from the vineyards to the cellars. Tours are available every Thursday through Sunday from 11AM-3PM and cost $80 per person.
Note that both of these activities DO require reservations (book your visit HERE).
3:00PM: Winery #3 – Peachy Canyon Winery
This winery exudes an overall warm, laid-back feel from the staff in the “Old Schoolhouse” tasting room to the lush lawn filled with Adirondack chairs. It makes for the perfect place to relax beneath a large oak tree with a refreshing glass of vino in hand during mid-afternoon.
Tasting Fee: $25 per person to sample five wines, one tasting fee is waived with a two bottle purchase
Tasting Reservations: NOT REQUIRED, but highly recommended for weekend tastings (book your tasting HERE)
Unique Offerings: A proud dog / family friendly winery with plenty of green space for activities that also features the historic Old Bethel Schoolhouse on its property. Peachy Canyon is best known for their award winning Zinfandel and hand-crafted small batch Bordeaux and Rhone varietals, unique to this region.
5:00PM: Winery #4 – Venteux Vineyards for Dinner & Live Music
The best part about this vineyard is the fact that it produces top-notch wine at a super affordable price point. For some, the idea of planning a trip to some of the hottest California wine regions may seem unattainable due to the large price tag associated, however, this is exactly the type of place that can make that dream a reality.
Tasting Fee: $20 per person to sample five wines (one of the best priced tastings we found)
Tasting Reservations: NOT REQUIRED, walk-ins welcome
Unique Offerings: Swing by their “Friday Music Series” that takes place every Friday night from late July through October, offering live music on the main stage from 5:30PM through 7:30PM. A $10 entry fee is required, but outside food is permitted and a food truck is available onsite for guests to purchase a bite to eat.
Another unique event held at Venteux is their “Sunday Funday” which consists of a one hour yoga class starting at 11AM, followed by an afternoon of live music and onsite food truck from 1PM-4PM. Which sounds like a pretty ideal day to me.
This winery is also dog friendly, so feel free to bring them along for the fun!
DAY 2 – Saturday Paso Robles Itinerary
Brunch in Downtown Paso
10:00AM: Brunch at Touch of Paso
A quaint eatery to start your day off right, offering everything from home-style dishes to lighter, healthy breakfast fare. This restaurant truly has something for everyone.
Check Out the Local Brews in Tin City
If you’re in the mood for something other than wine, this is a must-see industrial area consisting of tin buildings and connexes that house several breweries, distilleries, and cider houses. My husband and I first heard about Tin City from one of our wine servers at a tasting on the first day of our trip. As he lovingly referred to it as the “Disney Land for adults” and we coined that term ever since.
11:00AM: Tin City Cider
Talk about a chill atmosphere to try one (or more) of their many one of a kind ciders available on tap. Complete with lawn games, such as cornhole and giant jenga, this is an awesome hang out spot, especially on a Saturday afternoon.
12:30PM: Lunch at McPhee’s Canteen
A no frills go-to stop for lunch while exploring Tin City. This restaurant specializes in high quality meats in the form of hand-helds and wood-fired pizza, while still offering several pescatarian and vegetarian options.
1:30PM: BarrelHouse Brewing Co.
This was by far one of our favorite places we visited throughout the weekend. The culmination of a bluegrass band performing atop an old truck bed turned-stage with a cold beer in hand was nothing less than ideal. It was also apparent that everyone around us was enjoying themselves as much as we were.
Explore Downtown Paso
4:00PM: Tetto Rooftop Bar
This esteemed cocktail bar situated above The Piccolo Hotel is currently the only rooftop bar in downtown Paso Robles. Tetto is definitely worth a stop to enjoy a creative cocktail while gazing out at the town from above.
5:00PM: Eleven Twenty-Two Speakeasy & Cocktail Lounge
If you have an affinity for prohibition-style speak easies and carefully crafted cocktails, then this is a perfect place to visit. This intimate lounge is truly hidden gem that transports you back to the 1930’s, from the bartenders’ demeanor to the music selection and candle-lit ambiance.
What else does transporting back in time mean? A “no phones allowed” policy, which is one of the most rewarding surprises in my opinion. But of course, I can’t give away all of their secrets…you’ll have to go see for yourself!
Be sure to note, this is a very small venue so in order to avoid waiting in line, I highly recommend arriving right when it opens on Saturday at 5PM.
7:00PM: Dinner at Fish Gaucho
I promise you will not be disappointed with this rustic-chic restaurant serving up delectable Mexican fare with a modern twist. Do yourself a favor and order the Ahi Crudo as an appetizer, you can thank me later. You can make an indoor or patio dining reservation HERE.
DAY 3 – Sunday Paso Robles Itinerary
Coffee in Downtown Paso
10:00AM: Grab a morning beverage at Spearhead Coffee
There’s no better wake-me-up than a quality cup of joe or tea (if you’re like me). This local spot roasts all of their own coffee in-house, so you know it’s both fresh and delicious. They keep their menu simple and straightforward while offering a few selections with flare, such as their Aztec Mocha which contains cinnamon and cayenne for a kick.
Winery Hop in the Adelaida District
The Adelaida District extends along Adelaida Road, west of downtown Paso, where sprawling vineyards thrive along the Santa Luca Mountain Range and grapes varietals grow at up to 2,200 feet in elevation. Here you get to experience some of the most coveted wineries in Paso Robles.
11:00AM: Winery #1 – Parrish Family Vineyard for Lunch
This charming winery provides a sense of home. Paired with staff who are extremely warm and down to earth. If weather permits, I’d encourage you to sit out on the lovely covered porch while enjoying a spread of charcuterie and homemade breads with oil and vinegar. Trust me when I say the food here is to die for.
Tasting Fee: $30 per person to sample five wines, one tasting fee is waived with a two bottle purchase
Tasting Reservations: NOT REQUIRED, but highly recommended for weekend tastings. They try their best to accommodate walk-ins. (book your tasting HERE)
Unique Offerings: Book a three-course meal thoughtfully prepared by the onsite chef along with different Parrish Estate wine pairings. This indulgent experience is available by reservation only on Fridays from 12-3PM for $80 per person. You can make a reservation HERE.
Visitors also have access to the full seasonal menu everyday from 11AM-4PM, if looking for something more casual. As an added bonus, dogs are welcome too.
1:00PM: Winery #2 – Adelaida Vineyards & Winery
Named after the premier wine district itself, both the quality of their wine and the beauty of their recently remodeled tasting room (circa 2016) fully lives up to its name. Sustainable and organic means of farming their grapes is Adelaida’s number one priority, focusing on long-term prosperity rather than short-term payoffs. Upon entering, we were met with an abundance of kind hospitality that did not go unnoticed.
Tasting Fee: $25 per person, one tasting fee is waived with a two bottle purchase
Tasting Reservations: REQUIRED, reserve in advanced online or by phone (book your tasting HERE)
Unique Offerings: Guests have the opportunity to book a “Signature Hilltop” tasting, which includes a series of hand-selected signature wines paired with light cuisine ($100 pp). For groups of 7 to 14, you can reserve the “Sensory Room” for a more intimate, indoor tasting accommodation ($40 pp).
Note that both of these experiences DO require reservations (book your selection HERE).
Outside food is permitted on the patio, except for during tastings. Also, pups are allowed to join the party while seated outdoors.
3:00PM: Winery #3 – DAOU Family Estates
This is perhaps one of the most iconic winery estates in the Paso area and for good reason. It boasts stunning panoramic views of its grounds and the surrounding vineyards from atop “DAOU Mountain.” Their tasting room is situated at an elevation of 2,200 feet, officially marking DAOU as the highest winery along the central Californian coast.
I’d assume the level of prestige and sophistication that they hold themselves to is most similarly aligned with the wineries found in Napa Valley or Sonoma, but we left with nothing but rave reviews from our experience.
Tasting Fee: $50 per person to sample five wines, one tasting fee is waived with a three bottle purchase or two tastings waived upon signing up for a membership
Tasting Reservations: REQUIRED, reserve in advanced online or by phone (book your tasting HERE)
Important to note that reservations are required for not only tastings, but also for regular visits, and weekends can book out up to a week in advance. If this stop is on your list, you need to plan ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
My husband and I did NOT make a reservation prior to our trip, however, we got extremely lucky in that they let us in by going early in the day (hooray!). We shared a bottle of their Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve while basking in the sun’s warmth, taking in all the beauty around us. This was definitely the priciest wine we encountered, but the splurge was worth it in my opinion.
Unique Offerings: Looking for a unique tasting experience? Look no further, as DAOU offers a couple that are unmatched. Embark on the “Discover DAOU Vineyard Excursion” that begins with an off-roading adventure through the vineyards, followed by a proper tasting and charcuterie. You could also try out their “Cabernet Clone Experience,” in which you learn all about the significance of cloning grape varieties while tasting various batches used to make DAOU’s flagship Cab Sav.
Note that both of these activities DO require reservations, costing $150 per person (book your experience HERE).
Dinner in Downtown Paso
6:00PM: Dinner at Buona Tavola
A restaurant specializing in Northern Italian cuisine that is so good, it’ll make your mouth water as soon as you walk through the front door. Their homemade pasta is a must-try. You can make a reservation in advanced HERE.
Travel Home from Paso Robles, CA
Though it’s always a bit sad when your trip inevitably comes to an end, always remember you are leaving with new memories, stories, and inspiration to begin planning for your next adventure!
How to Travel to Paso Robles?
While planning to travel to Paso Robles, visitors have the option to fly into the following three California airports: San Luis Obispo (+40min drive), San Jose (+2h 20min drive), or San Francisco (+3h drive).
The location is a bit tricky as each flight will also require either renting a car or booking a transportation service to and from the airport of your choice. If interested in the latter, some economical options include travel by bus, Amtrak train, taxi, or ride sharing apps (Uber / Lyft) which are all available from the closest airport in SLO.
How to Get Around in Paso Robles?
One very important aspect of planning your trip to Paso Robles is figuring out your means of transportation. When drinking is involved, you always need to plan ahead to ensure you travel around safely. Luckily, there are several options available to tourists in this area.
Book a Wine Tour / Transportation Service
This is a popular option that provides peace of mind for visitors looking to check out multiple wineries in a day without the added stress of transportation from Point A to Point B. Although there are several transportation services available, there is one in which you can book a designated driver to drive your own vehicle for a minimum of six hours, escorting your group of 2-15 guests to either pre-selected wineries or recommendations via your private chauffeur.
Don’t wait, book your private driver HERE.
Rent a Car
If flying in, book a rental car for pickup at your airport of choice. Designate a sober driver for a full-day of winery hopping.
Use a Rideshare App
Uber or Lyft are both readily available in the area, cellular service permitting.
Call a Taxi
Fetch Ridez – (805) 419-3382
Surf Cab – (805) 748-2202
Top-Rated Wine Tours to Book in Paso Robles
- Uncorked Wine Tours ($) – Offers a little bit of everything, with your choice of booking a wine, beer, or sampler tour featuring a variety including of wine, beer, cider, cheese, and olive oil.
- Elite Wine Tours Paso ($$) – Completely customizable wine tours with transportation provided in a Mercedes Limo Sprinter for groups of 2-8 people. In business since 2005, this company fully understands the how the Paso Robles wine scene works and helps to provide professional insight on reservations and other other requirements for each stop along your way.
- Paso Robles Wine Adventure ($) – With both half and full day options available (5+ hours), I encourage you to consider booking this “hop-on, hop-off” wine tasting tour that will give you a complete feel for the region. This tour company has rave reviews and will even go above and beyond to solidify reservations for tastings and meals as desired, along your ideal itinerary.
Book your Paso Robles Wine Adventure HERE.
Other Wineries to Check Out in Paso
- Halter Ranch Vineyard
- Thacher Winery & Vineyard
- Broken Earth Winery
- JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery
- J Dusi Winery and Tasting Room
- Tobin James Cellars
- Law Estate Wines
How Many Wine Tastings are Recommended for One Day?
Generally speaking, most tasting rooms are open from approximately 11AM until 5PM. Therefore, visitors should allow for at least an hour at each location along the way. For a full day, stopping at 3-4 wineries is the sweet spot in my opinion.
Do you Need to Make Reservations for Wine Tastings?
Because Paso Robles is a popular tourist destination, I would highly advise you to make a reservation with any tasting rooms that are high on your list. Not all wineries require tastings by appointment, but the majority do, especially in a post-COVID world. Before your trip, check out the website to see if reservations are available or call them directly, so you’re not disappointed if you show up and get turned away.
How Much Does a Typical Wine Tasting Cost in Paso Robles?
Note that the price of wine tastings in Paso can greatly vary from one winery to the next. On average, tastings will cost $25-$35 per person.
Tips & Tricks for Saving Money at Wineries in Paso Robles
My advice here is simple, do your research prior to arriving so that you’re in the loop on any ways to save yourself some extra $$$. A few tips and tricks that I learned include:
Most wineries in the area do not offer food for purchase, so some allow you to bring your own picnic.
If you’re interested in tastings, many spots offer to waive tasting fees with the purchase of a couple bottles or by signing up for their membership. Many wineries offer cost savings on wine, food, event tickets, and merch if you join their “wine club”. This is perhaps a good option for California locals who have the ability to frequent Paso more often.
A “Priority Wine Pass” grants you access to over 400 different wine tasting deals in the area with the option to purchase this membership for 3 days, 1 month, or 1 year. Buy your pass HERE today.
Activities To Do in Paso Robles Besides Wine Tasting?
Besides the many tasting rooms set amongst the serene rolling hills, another must see attraction in Paso Robles is Tin City. As mentioned above in my “Day 2 – Paso Robles Itinerary”, this area features plentiful beverages (other than wine) that I encourage you to check out.
A couple of the most notable breweries include, BarrelHouse Brewing Co. and Firestone Walker Brewing Company.
Best Places to Stay While Visiting Paso Robles?
Paso Robles offers a wide-variety of accommodations for every type of traveler. Below are a few of my top recommendations, including options for both hotels and Airbnb.
Budget
Mid-Range
- Paso Robles Inn (BOOK HERE)
- Coach House Cottage (BOOK HERE to stay at our adorable Airbnb in Templeton)
Luxury
Search all available accommodations in Paso Robles HERE.
Where to Eat in Paso and Surrounding Areas
Breakfast
- AMSTRDM Coffee House | Piano Lounge (Paso) – Top-notch coffee and brunch favorites
- Kitchenette (Templeton) – Quintessential breakfast plates
Lunch
- Bless Your Heart Baking (Paso) – Women-owned bakery with sandwiches and delectable treats
- The Neighborhood Café & Juice Bar (Paso) – Acai bowls and vegan options
Dinner
- The Alchemists’ Garden (Paso) – Clever cocktails and fare ranging from light snacks to hearty dishes
- The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar (Paso) – Classic cocktails and wood-fired comfort food
Nearby Attractions to See Outside of Paso Robles
Say you have an extra day to kill or have the itch to explore beyond Paso during one of the days you are visiting. See below for my suggested alternative day itinerary for sites to see outside of Paso Robles.
Scenic drive from Paso Robles to the Pacific Coast via CA-46
Sights to see along the Pacific Coast Highway (aka PCH)
A few highlights to stop at along Hwy 1 include the Elephant Seal Vista Point, located just south of the Piedras Blancas Light Station, touring the historic Hearst Castle, and strolling along the San Simeon Pier at William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach.
Winery #1 – Harmony Cellars
Tasting Fee: $15 per person to sample six wines of your choice
Tasting Reservations: NOT REQURIED, but highly recommended for weekend tastings (call (805) 927-1625 for reservations)
Unique Offerings: Join for their “Twilight Concert Series” and food truck on Fridays from 6-8PM for $19 per person. They also host exclusive, multi-course “Winemaker Dinners” on various nights of the month.
Note that both of these events DO require reservations (book your experience by calling the phone number above).
Lunch at Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant
The freshest seafood with a spectacular view of Morro Rock. For the best vibe, make sure to sit out on the patio.
Explore around Morro Rock
Drive back to Paso via CA-41 to US-101
Packing Essentials for Your Trip to Paso Robles
- Cute / casual clothing
- Comfortable shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Layers for evenings (jacket, pants)
- Blanket for after sunset
- Water bottle
- Winery snacks (if allowed)
Pros & Cons for Visiting Paso Robles
Pros
- Opportunity to try a wide variety of world-class California wines
- Breathtaking landscapes, from the rolling mountains to the rocky coastline
- Temperate weather year-round making any month a good time to visit
Cons
- Difficult to actually get there, there is no direct / easy route
- Option overload with 200+ wineries available to visit within greater Paso
- Dangers of drinking and driving if you do not plan ahead for your method of transport
In Conclusion: Paso Robles Itinerary
I hope that you find my thoughtfully curated Paso Robles itinerary useful while planning for your next adventure. As always, my mission is to help motivate and push you to Seek Out Serenity in your life. Your future starts today!
