Paso Robles is essentially a smaller, less developed version of Napa. This is staring to become a popular wine destintion because the grape vines have been established for long enough where the wine is starting to get tastier. Make sure to stop at all the best wineries in Paso Robles and if you have the time, there are breathtaking ocean views roughly an hour out from Paso Robles.

To hopefully make your trip to Paso Robles a little more enjoyable (not that you wouldn't already have an amazing time there!), here is a short list of 5 tricks or locations I wish I knew about so I did not have to plan as thoroughly--not as if detailed planning is a problem. 

1. Be sure to eat at TASTE! Craft Eatery

TASTE! was by far the best restaurant my mom and I went to while visiting Paso Robles. There is an extensive variety of different types of burger sliders you can choose from (I went with the lettuce bun!) as well as a range of cocktail options and the dining scene is beautiful! 

This is a popular place so either arrive early, book a reservation, or be prepared to wait for a little bit (if you eat at the bar, you don't have to wait as long). 

As a tip for parking, simply park across the street at the City Hall Parking Lot for free parking. 

2. Take the Highway 46 to Cambria to hike Bluff Trail

This is one of the most scenic drives I have been on and is full of vibrant green, rolling hills. Eventually, as you're heading West, you will be the ocean, but some of the best ocean views are in the city of Cambria itself, so be sure to go on the Bluff Trail hike where you will be right on the edge of the coastline. 

On you drive back to Paso Robles heading East on highway 46, there will be a perfect spot to pull over and take a beautiful picture of the rolling hills and ocean view (that's where the cover photo for this article if taken at). 

As for a tasty place to eat, either go to The Hidden Kitchen or Creekside Gardens --neither one will disappoint you!

3. Go to Scenorio Light Show on a Thursday

The Scensorio Light Show is only open Thursday-Saturday, so be sure to plan ahead! Personally, going on a Thursday is a great idea because it will not be crowded as it could be compared to a Friday or Saturday. Of course, there will be people, but if you are hoping to avoid big crowds--buy tickets for Thursday evening. 

Also make sure to get there to watch the sunset because it is quite beautiful, but remember the lights are solar powered so they will not become fully visible until it is pitch black outside. 

4. Stop at the Paso Robles Austin Hope Winery

Austin Hope is one of the best Paso Robles wineries, but is definetly one of my family's favorite wine options as their Cabernet Sauvignon is incredible. If you are looking for a different type of wine, their Graciano is always just as good on its own. 

The service there is incredible with everyone being friendly and timely. Austin Hope winery in Paso Robles does not advertise compared to other wineries so it might be easy to skip over this winery, but I promise if you go, there will be no regrets!

5. River Oaks Hot Springs Spa

If you are looking to have a few intimate couple hours with your partner or just a relaxing day at the spa, River Oaks Hot Springs Spa will not dissapoint. They have private jacuzzi's that are filled with the natural hot spring water known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties to help the skin--and I will say, my skin has never felt so soft before. Sadly, I did not take a good enough picture of our secluded hot tub area, but I did capture one photo on our walk to our hot tub.

The spa offers different services and packages depending on your budget, but you can pay for an hour long hot spring soak for $28 a person. Just be sure to check their website as pricing does change and they have different packages. 

Conclusion

I had planned a very extensive itenirary for my mom and I when we went; but upon reflection, these were hands-down our favorite experiences to this day! 

There is obviously so much more to explore, as there are the best wineries in Paso Robles with plenty to choose from, so be sure to do some further research to determine which locations you would love to see!

Regardless, I hope this small list of a few hidden gems and tips I learned while staying there provide some form of use to you and your needs. If not, I hope I at least provided some new information and that you find exactly what you are looking for!