Arroyo Grande

 

Located in San Luis Obispo County, this small coastal city, characterized by its Mediterranean-esque climate, has plenty of charm. Defined by its unique, turn-of-the-century downtown “Village,” which is filled with a range of antique and specialty shops, Arroyo Grande is also home to a number of historical buildings, five museums, and California’s last “swinging bridge.” There is a wide array of housing options available, including oceanview properties perched on acres of land and single-level ranch-style homes nestled within walking distance of the town’s central hub.  

 

Punctuated by more than a dozen historical landmarks, there’s a strong focus on preserving architecture and memorabilia here. The 120-year-old Santa Manuela schoolhouse has been restored to its original state, complete with students’ chairs, books, maps, and blackboards. History buffs will also revel in the fact that a portion of the Pacific Coast Railway intersects Arroyo Grande, which is also home to an extensive research library highlighting California history.   

 

The demographic here is young: the median age of residents is 45, and the population’s average commute time is 20 minutes. The city features an array of parks as well as a 26-acre sports complex, a lighted baseball field, an expansive dog walk, and a community garden. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate hiking trails along the Arroyo Grande Creek and the James Way Oak Habitat and Wildlife Preserve.

 

Wineries abound in this Central California oasis—oenophiles can spend the afternoon at 12 different sipping sites.

 

American aviator Harriet Quimby called Arroyo Grande home in the early 1900s, and she’s not this small town’s only famous resident. Zac Efron, Lou Ferrigno, and former basketball player Horace Grant all claimed addresses here. According to the 2010 Census, more than 7,000 families call Arroyo Grande home, and the median family income is about $80,000.

 

More than 25 varieties of beer (including a hazelnut brown nectar and a maple barrel-aged stout) draw crowds at Mason Bar & Kitchen. Enjoy Wine Country casual dining at Rooster Creek Tavern and sample wood-fired pizza and small plates at Ember Restaurant. For seasonal, thoughtfully-sourced fare and a great sampling of craft beer and wine, check out The Spoon Trade. When it comes to art and culture, the Clark Center for Performing Arts hosts a wide selection of plays, concerts, stand-up comedy, and more.

 

Arroyo Grande has three golf courses and resorts, as well as a marina and waterpark. Most guests and residents spend their Saturdays antiquing, and the two weekly farmers’ markets are a must-visit.

 

Arroyo Grande contains 27 schools in total, many of which are highly-rated for their student-teacher ratio and testing scores. In 2020, US News and World Report ranked Arroyo Grande High School #518 among California schools and #3,480 nationally.