A slice of SLO County.

Whether you’re new to SLO County, a long-time resident, or just visitng for a change of pace, can you really say you’ve experienced the “SLO Life”? You’ve probably gone hiking up Bishop Peak or spent the day at Montana De Oro, played in the waves at Pismo Beach or strolled through the Arroyo Grande Village. You may have even experienced the community at SLO Farmer’s Market, tasted the wine at one of the many local vineyards, or gone water-skiing at Lopez Lake. If so, then you’ve experienced some of the SLO Life. But not all of it… not by a long shot.

Many of these things are what SLO County is known for; relaxation, community, adventure, and a slower life that lets you take things in and truly appreciate them. But have you done it all? Have you watched live theater at the Great American Melodrama, sang karaoke at Mother’s Tavern, or experienced the great food and personal service at Alphy’s Broiler? Have you gone horseback riding on the beach in Oceano or watched movies in the Sunken Gardens park in Atascadero? How about a special getaway at the Lighthouse in Avila Beach or a long, scenic bike ride down Bob Jones trail… have you done that? Ever watched a rodeo at the Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles or seen the Monarch butterflies flock to their sactuary in Pismo Beach?

You’ve probably done some of this, and if you’ve lived in SLO County for a long time, then you may have even done most of it. But I’m willing to bet that you haven’t done all of it. And even if you have… have you done all of it lately? There is so much that this county has to offer; many even call it a Dream Town. This New Year, get out there and experience the highly sought after “SLO Life”, even if only to rediscover the things about it that made you fall in love in the first place.

We live in a place that many would consider paradise. With beaches, lakes, and mountains all just a short and scenic drive away and an ideal climate almost year-round, it’s no surprise that San Luis Obispo is the destination for many looking to vacation or retire. In fact, Sunset Magazine recently named San Luis Obispo the second best dream town in the West, citing landmarks, climate and local traditions among the top contributing factors for the accolade.

Locals have long enjoyed the hikes at Bishop’s Peak, strolling downtown near the Historical Mission, picking up fresh produce every Thursday from the Farmer’s Market, and weekend wine tasting trysts at the many nearby vineyards. Pack in the lazy days at the lake, playing at the beach, and the friendly laid-back people, and it’s obvious why, “San Luis Obispo is the most Californian place in all of California“.

Image Credit: emdot

After three years, the Five Cities Dog Park Association has finally started with the construction of the off-leash dog park. After overcoming challenges on where the park would be approved, the new location is going to be section of the Elm Street Park.

“Having an off-leash dog park is important for us because our dog, Malibu, is so energetic and active. Just taking her for walks is not enough. It’s going to be great to have a local place where she can run free,” said Grover Beach dog owner, Dustin Thompson.

This off-leash Dog Park will not be maintained by the city of Arroyo Grande but will be maintained by volunteers of the five cities dog park association. Since this a non profit organization they are responsible for raising the funds to construct and maintain this area of the park. This is great for the community as well as dog owners to get to meet new friends with the one thing in common they love — their dogs!

Visit the Five Cities Dog Park Association at: http://fivecitiesdogpark.org/index.htm