Wineries, Wonderlands and Winter Magic for Your Calendar
Paso Robles feels extra special during the holidays. Downtown glows with spectacular nighttime lights and the inns are all about fireplaces, good wine and friendly faces. Over three days, you’ll follow the lights, try bold drinks and settle into the cozy, festive vibe Paso does so well. Locals will tell you, three days is the sweet spot. Anything less, and you’ll be wishing you had just one more night. This trip is more than just sightseeing. It’s about finding a mood that sticks with you long after your last glass of wine.
The holidays here are driven by a spirit of community. Thanks to the City of Paso Robles and the Downtown Main Street Association, the season focuses on celebrating local, highlighting small businesses and neighborhood traditions that make Paso a holiday destination beyond just wine.
If our Temecula wine weekend guide got you dreaming, Paso should be next on your list. Let’s dive into this holiday itinerary together.
Day 1: Downtown Lights & Seasonal Sips
Arrive in Paso and check in at Paso Robles Inn, a historic spot just steps from all the downtown action, or opt for the Adelaide Inn if you’re traveling on a budget without sacrificing charm. Families will love the fun and perks at Sun Outdoors RV Resort. Kids burn off energy at the game room, and adults unwind with a glass of local wine.
Kick things off with lunch at Pappy MacGregor’s, a downtown staple serving elevated pub classics like fish and chips and local craft beers. Afterward, check out The General Store for local pantry goods, browse Firefly for artisan-made home décor or snag a warm bag of sea salt cookies at Brown Butter Cookie Co.
As the sun sets, downtown takes on a festive glow. Downtown City Park lights up every night, capturing the holiday spirit in a whole new way: it’s free, open to all and buzzing with cheer. Free holiday events like the annual tree lighting and Christmas Light Parade bring out families, couples and anyone looking for a little joy. There are classic cars, floats covered in lights and more.
Keep the holiday spirit flowing at Eleven Twenty Two, Paso’s speakeasy cocktail bar tucked behind a hidden bookcase. Step through the secret passageway and into the ultra-festive Miracle pop-up. Expect tinsel-lined walls, nostalgic holiday glassware and expertly crafted seasonal cocktails. Want a tropical twist? CANE Tiki Room transforms into Sippin’ Santa, the kitschy, surf-meets-Christmas pop-up where Santa trades in his sleigh for a longboard. It’s all beachy vibes, spiked punch and tiki mugs wearing Santa hats.
Local Insight
Kick off the holiday season with the annual tree‑lighting ceremony the day after Thanksgiving. The park’s lights shine bright into early January, so enjoy the sparkle. The free Christmas Light Parade begins Saturday, Dec. 6, at 6 p.m., winding its way around Spring and 10th, looping past the park. Plus, on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 6 to 9 p.m., the Vine Street Victorian Showcase turns downtown into a winter fairy tale. Locals say to grab a spot early near the Paso Robles Acorn Building’s clock tower for the best view.
Day 2: Wineries, Views & Elevated Bites
Wake up slow and caffeinate. If you’re staying at Hotel Cheval, grab a made-to-order espresso from their house barista at H. Cheval; then circle back in the evening for their signature s’mores butler service, complete with a personal fire and gourmet fixings. If you’re at a vineyard resort like Allegretto, breakfast with a view is the move.
Then, let the wine tasting begin. Take a short drive down Highway 46 East to go underground with a cave tour at Eberle Winery. Next, stop into Robert Hall to sample wines from regenerative, organic-certified vineyards. For lunch, head to Spring Street where Paso Market Walk vendors let you pick from tacos, sandwiches, salads or whatever catches your eye. Alternatively, head downtown to experience local favorite BL Brasserie for a classic French lunch like the delicious Croque Monsieur with Pommes Frites. Walk up to the Sidewalk Bar at Hope on Park, where boutique bottles and downtown energy meet in one chic, low-key space. From there, pop into JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery’s downtown tasting room for rich, structured blends.
For dinner, head to The Alchemists’ Garden for an innovative meal and a creative cocktail, or settle in at The Hatch: a simple rotisserie known for crispy-skinned chicken. Il Cortile Ristorante is the spot for classics like handmade gnocchi stuffed with chicken, spinach and mascarpone, or rigatoni with sausage and shiitake mushrooms.
After dinner, plan for a little extra magic. Time your visit to catch the Vine Street Victorian Showcase, a one-night-only stroll past glowing, decked-out historic homes, or make your way to Sensorio, an immersive installation of glowing orbs and lanterns that transforms the hillside into a dreamscape year-round.
Day 3: Spa Morning & Goodbye Sweets
By day three, you’ve earned a little indulgence. Start your morning with a full reset at Spa Allegretto, where Tuscan-inspired design meets Central Coast calm. Book the Allegretto Signature Massage with hot stones and Osea Malibu collagen lotion, or treat yourself to a brightening Vitamin-C Facial followed by a therapeutic neck, shoulder and hand massage. If you’re traveling with a partner, the couples’ treatments feel like a little vacation inside your vacation. Want to keep it extra chill? Grab a robe and take in the vineyard views with a breath of fresh air in their outdoor lounge.
Before you leave town, stop by SLO Sweets for a road snack or a nostalgic scoop of cotton candy-flavored saltwater taffy. Craving one last indulgence? Swing by Just Baked Cake Studio for breakfast and coffee or a sweet treat to go. If there’s still space in your suitcase, pick up a bottle from your favorite winery; you’ll want something to open while reliving the trip back home. You’ll head out glowing, rested and already counting the days until next time.
This article is brought to you by one of the many talented writers associated with Locale Magazine! We are a group of locals (whether born and raised or transplanted) who love this county we now call home!
