Idyllic town where carefree California dream is still alive named one of America's best hidden gems

With their soaring crime rates, choked up highways and exorbitant prices, it can feel like some Golden State cities are losing their shine. 

But in San Luis Obispo, the California dream is still alive and well. 

So it is perhaps no wonder that it has now been named one of America's best cities to visit by CNN.

The idyllic spot is known for its wineries, quaint city center and stunning natural beauty.

A drive-in movie theater and family run restaurants all ensure it retains a distinctly 20th century feel.

San Luis Obispo has been named among the top cities in the US to visit

The laidback pace of living has given rise to the nickname SLO, with locals enjoying a more sedate lifestyle than in other big cities.

However, SLO's vibrant arts scene and several new developments also give it a contemporary edge. 

Downtown is routinely packed with locals sampling the independent cafes, boutique stores and art galleries.

Quirky features such as Bubblegum Alley, a 70ft walled stretch which is lined with chewed pieced of gum, are found throughout the city.

Meanwhile a weekly farmers market offering wares from more than 100 vendors never fails to draw a crowd. 

But it is not just residents reaping the benefits of this charming town.

'Here, you can indulge in everything from wine trails to hiking trails without a crush of humanity,' the CNN guide states.

The laidback pace of living has given rise to the nickname SLO, with locals enjoying a more sedate lifestyle than in other big cities

SLO is famed for its wineries, quaint city center and stunning natural beauty

'The stunning natural environment, with the Pacific nearby, is the cherry on top.'

SLO was founded in 1772 by the Spanish as a mission town. The settlers also began the area's rich winemaking population.

By the 19th century, the town had become home to a population of Chinese laborers who build roads and railways.

Only a few buildings from the historic Chinatown remain, including the Ah Louis Sotre which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.

The store was opened by Chinese-American Ah Louis and was home to his family. Its Victorian Italianate construction make it an eye catching landmark in the city.

A stone's throw away is another slice of history in the form of the Milestone Mo-Tel, reputedly the first ever motel.

SLO was founded in 1772 by the Spanish as a mission town. The settlers began the area's rich winemaking population

A weekly farmers' market offers wares from more than 100 vendors

The owners chose SLO for its location, since it is half way between LA and San Francisco. 

All this and much more can be learned at History Center of San Luis Obispo. Culture vultures might also want to stop into the SLOMA, the city's modern art gallery.

Today SLO has a population of 48,000, following an influx of people during the pandemic.

Many are drawn to the small town feel which provides all the benefits of a big city.

SLO is located close to other urban centers such as Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, Arroyo Grande, and Paso Robles.

It is also home to California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), with its students helping to bring another sense of community.

The city's proximity to stunning hiking trails make it a huge hit with tourists looking to escape outdoors

Downtown is routinely packed with locals sampling the independent cafes, boutique stores and art galleries

The city beat the likes of New York and Washington D.C. to make the top ten best tourist destinations in the US.

Coming in ahead of SLO at number one was Richmond, Virginia, followed by Providence in Rhode island, Tacoma in Washington and Portland in Maine.

The judges looked for cities which offer personality and a host of attractions without the crush of elbow-to-elbow crowds.