Essential Downtown SLO: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Active
35m - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Created by a professional videographer and storyteller with years of experience filming for ESPN, this digital audio tour captures the vibrant pulse of a town often called the happiest city in America.
While standard tours stick to dry scripts and broad streets, this experience leads you through the intimate corners and historic landmarks where San Luis Obispo’s Wild West heritage still lingers.
The narrative guides you from the legendary Ah Louis Store, once the heart of a bustling, tiny Chinatown, to the colorful, cluttered charm of Bubblegum Alley and the hallowed grounds of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.
Using GPS technology, local stories and historical insights play automatically as you walk, functioning entirely offline to preserve your data.
By the time you reach the 1875 home of the city's first coroner and the old Creamery, the city's layers of history will have come alive.
Available options
Essential Downtown SLO: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English
VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Detailed itinerary
1
This tour starts outside the Ah Louis Store.
2
The tour starts near the Palm Theatre
3
You go through the Mission Plaza
4
You stop in front of the Mission SLO
5
You stop briefly outside the museum
6
The tour passes the History Center and Museum of San Luis Obispo County
7
You stop outside the museum
8
You walk through Bubblegum Alley
9
The tour passes the Downtown SLO Farmers' Market
10
The tour passes Granada Hotel and Bistro
11
The tour passes Fremont Theater
12
This is where the tour ends
What's not included
Smarphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drinks
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.9
7 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.4
20 reviews
5★
14
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The tour begins near the parking garage exit facing the Palm Theatre across the street. Before arrival, install the VoiceMap app and use the code provided on your ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart any time and complete at your own pace.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, often abbreviated as SLO, is a charming city in California known for its vibrant downtown, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. It's a place where outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a relaxed atmosphere blend seamlessly, making it a unique and appealing destination.
Top Attractions
Bubblegum Alley
Bubblegum Alley is a narrow alleyway covered in layers of bubblegum. It's a quirky and iconic spot in downtown San Luis Obispo, attracting visitors from all over.
Historical
15-30 minutes
Free
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
This historic mission, founded in 1772, is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture and a significant part of California's history.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful coastline, dunes, and various recreational activities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free (activities may have fees)
Avila Valley
Avila Valley is a scenic area known for its vineyards, farms, and beautiful landscapes. It's a great place for wine tasting, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Nature
Half day to full day
Varies by activity (wine tasting fees, etc.)
Morro Bay
Morro Bay is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful estuary, Morro Rock, and various water activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (activities may have fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Avocado Toast
A popular breakfast dish featuring fresh avocado on toasted bread, often topped with eggs, cheese, and other ingredients.
Breakfast
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Fish Tacos
A California classic, featuring fresh fish in a tortilla with various toppings and sauces.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made gluten-free with corn tortillas
Cal Poly Mustard
A locally produced mustard made by students at California Polytechnic State University.
Snack
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Mountain biking
Surfing
Beach lounging
Wine tasting
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
May to October
This is the best time to visit San Luis Obispo for outdoor activities and exploring the city. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for hiking, biking, and beach trips.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Luis Obispo is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from city center
By train
San Luis Obispo Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The RTA bus system is affordable and convenient, with frequent routes and easy access to major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Funk Zone
Cal Poly Campus
Day trips
Hearst Castle
25 miles (40 km) north of San Luis Obispo • Half day to full day
Hearst Castle is a historic estate and national landmark that was once the home of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.
Big Sur
50 miles (80 km) south of San Luis Obispo • Full day
Big Sur is a stunning coastal region known for its rugged beauty, scenic drives, and hiking trails.
Santa Barbara
100 miles (160 km) south of San Luis Obispo • Full day
Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city known for its Spanish colonial architecture, beaches, and wine country.
Festivals
California Polynesian Festival • June
Avocado Festival • October
Farmers Market Christmas Tree Lighting • December
Pro tips
- Visit the San Luis Obispo Farmers Market on Thursday evenings for a lively and delicious experience
- Explore the city's historic sites and museums to learn about its rich history and culture
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Hearst Castle, Big Sur, or Santa Barbara for a more immersive experience
- Try local foods and support local businesses, such as the Avila Valley Barn or the SLO Brewing Company
- Use public transportation, walk, or bike to get around the city and reduce your environmental impact
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
