This Central Coast Holiday Road Trip & Shopping Guide is all about visiting Paso Robles to do a little shopping, enjoy some local flavor, and delight in unique holiday traditions. Bring along visiting friends and family and enjoy earning bonus points at each Local Rewards location mentioned!
Here are 7 ideas for your itinerary from our Paso Robles Branch Manager, Sandra Bautista-Floyd:
1. Come for the Annual Downtown Lightning Ceremony
“The real countdown to Christmas starts here.” — Sandra
Mark your calendar — this community event kicks off the holiday season on the evening of Friday, November 24. Bundle up and join the 37th annual celebration at Downtown City Park, which features special guests like (like the Grinch), hot cocoa, and candlelight caroling before Mrs. Claus herself lights up downtown.
2. Pick Up Some Gifts Downtown
“You will be sure find unique gifts that represent our heart of Paso Robles!” — Sandra
Head over to beautiful downtown Paso and check off some gifts. There are plenty of boutiques and shops like General Store Paso Robles filled with locally made goods for the pantry and home, as well as a books, puzzles. games, and more.
General Store Paso Robles is also a participating Local Rewards business, which means you earn bonus rewards points¹ when you use your HomeFREE Checking™ debit or Visa Signature Rewards® credit card. You can redeem your points for gift cards, cash back, and many more awesome rewards at seslocrewards.org², helping you stretch your holiday budget.
3. Cruise the Paso Market Walk
“Your taste buds will love you for it, you can’t go wrong with the amazing choices in cuisine here.” — Sandra
The Paso Market Walk houses a collection of small local businesses under one roof, many of which are participating Local Rewards businesses — which means you can earn bonus rewards points when you pay with your eligible SESLOC debit or credit card.
Need a bite to eat to fuel up for holiday shopping? Grab a gourmet pizza at Via Caravaggio 147, savor a bowl of Momotaro Ramen, or peep the specials at The Third Degree Grill. Save room for dessert — you’ll definitely want to try a scoop from Leo Leo Gelato or a holiday flavored macaron from Just Baked.
If you have a coffee lover on your shopping list, be sure to stop by Joebella Coffee Roasters for a locally roasted bag of beans.
If you have any vegan family or friends you’ll definitely want to browse the selection of artisan vegan cheeses, meats, and snacks at the Vreamery.
Of course, there’s also something for the wine connoisseur in your life — pop into Paso Robles Wine Merchant for a taste and pick up a bottle from their carefully curated selection of small distribution wines.
4. Visit a Vineyard
“Would it really be trip to Paso Robles without visiting one of our amazing vineyards?” — Sandra
Paso Robles is a wine tasting destination, so take your holiday joy ride out to the countryside to check out one of the amazing Rhône-style local wineries. Head over to Cass Winery for a tasting and dine at the café conveniently located on the estate. Or visit Alta Colina to sample their organically grown selection and take in some amazing views. Be sure to use your eligible SESLOC debit or visa card to earn bonus rewards points on your purchase at both wineries.
5. Watch the Holiday Light Parade
“It really sets the tone for our Vine street showcase.” — Sandra
If you love a parade, be sure to head downtown for the 62nd Annual Holiday Light Parade on Saturday, December 2. Bundle up and enjoy the spectacle put on by local businesses, nonprofits, clubs, and organizations.
6. Delight in the Vine Street Victorian Showcase
“A great time to come together as a community and enjoy the creativity these displayed homes, a tradition dating back 37 years!” — Sandra
The annual Vine Street Christmas Victorian Showcase is on the evening of Saturday, December 9 this year. Join the community fun and walk down Vine Street, where the Victorian houses in the neighborhood go all out with their holiday decorations. There will be special guests (we hear Santa usually makes an appearance), delicious treats, lively entertainment, and more.
7. Take in Sensorio
“A breathtaking scene.” — Sandra
The holidays are the perfect time to take a walk through Sensorio, especially if you’re looking to delight out-of-town guests. The immersive outdoor art installation is open year-round, and is truly a vibe, complete with live music, food, and local beer, wine, and spirits.
If you’re looking for more holiday inspo this season, check out our tips for taking a joy ride to other Central Coast locations. Or, check out the complete Local Rewards Business Directory here.
