Green vines have turned a gorgeous orange hue as we head into late October, but that’s not all that’s burning bright. The tasting rooms are busier than ever, and the winery production facilities too (this is prime-time for peeking in on behind-the-scenes winemaking experiences). As the new vintage approaches, harvest events are heating up hotter than summer temps! From pumpkins and pairings to grape stomps and Halloween hoopla, here’s 2 reasons why Paso Robles should be on your itinerary for Autumnal adventure.
1. Community Spirit
During fall, local Paso Robles residents and wineries like to unwind and have a little fun. It’s not about being “fancy”—it’s about making new friends. This Oct, 27-28, you can get in on this signature Paso Robles authenticity with the Halloween Poker Run. Hosted from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, the annual Zoo to You Halloween Passport offers up a wild time with exotic animals, complimentary wine tasting, of course, poker, and fabulous prizes. Head to the East side of Paso Robles and get your $25 passport stamped at participating wineries, including Eberle Winery, Lusso Della Terra Winery, Pear Valley Estate, Rio Seco Vineyard, and many more. Not only does that single ticket pay for all your tasting fees, but you’ll also come face-to-face with exotic animals on Saturday (Zoo to You is a local animal sanctuary nonprofit). Make a weekend of it and book your stay at Allegretto Vineyard Resort or at a host of Paso Robles Vacation Rentals.
Mapping and Directions to Eberle Winery
Mapping and Directions to Lusso Della Terra Cellars
Mapping and Directions to Pear Valley
Mapping and Directions to Rio Seco Vineyard & Winery
Mapping and Directions to Allegretto Vineyard Resort
Mapping and Directions to Paso Robles Vacation Rentals
2. Small Town Traditions
Nowhere is the spirit of Paso Robles more alive than at our local farms. Each fall, these rolling pastures give way to orange orbs. At River K Pumpkin Patch in Paso Robles, the Kunze family has been in the business of providing children with a autumn entertainment for the past 39 years. Visit the corn maze, pick out a Halloween pumpkin, or take a hay ride. Might we also suggest stopping in at a nearby tasting room? Hearst Ranch Winery is a friendly neighbor with outstanding wines.
Mapping and Directions to Hearst Ranch Winery
This blog was written by Hayley Thomas Cain, food and wine writer for SLO New Times and PasoRoblesWineries.net. You can reach her at hthomas@newtimesslo.com or follow her on instagram @flavorslo.
Looking for a place to stay in Paso Robles?
The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, lo
cally owned hotel known for its friendly staff and lush landscaping. With spacious rooms and a convenient location close to highway 101 and the event center – home of the California Mid-State Fair – this hotel is a great choice for most travelers.
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
Majestically set among vineyards, olive groves and fruit baring orchards, the 20-acre Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a world unto itself, offering breathtaking settings that inspire and bring joy to all who choose this memorable wine country haven. Featuring 171 rooms and suites, on-site spa, grand ballroom, wine tasting room, and inspired culinary creations at Cello, the resort’s full service restaurant.
Directions: speedfind.com/Allegretto
La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.
Directions: speedfind.com/LaBellasera
Hampton Inn & Suites Paso Robles is nestled in the Central Coast wine region, home to over 200 wineries, beautiful beaches, mountains and diverse attractions. Relax and revive in a comfortable guest room with all you need for a successful stay. You can count on Hampton to deliver value, consistency and service with a smile. We love having you here®
Directions: speedfind.com/PRWine.HamptonInn
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at Lekai Ranch. Lounge on the porch of your private suite and lose yourself in the tranquility and stunning views of the vineyards and oak studded hills beyond. This vacation rental is located just minutes from some of the most distinguished wineries and a premier olive oil estate, and only 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles’ restaurants, wineries and shopping.
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Enjoy the elegance, style and natural beauty of California’s Central Coast at the JUST Inn®. Surrounded by vineyards, our JUST Inn Suites offer luxurious appointments like fireplaces, Tempur-Pedic®mattresses, Frette linens, hydro-spa tubs, and range in size from 600–1,200 square feet. An overnight stay includes breakfast and a tour of the winery and caves.
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, also known as PasoStay.com assists guests in creating memories and wonderful experiences by providing quality privately owned vacation home rentals in Paso Robles Wine Country. With over 90 vacation homes to choose from, small enough for a couple’s romantic getaway to large homes amongst local vineyards and olive orchards, PasoStay.com has the perfect option for you. Feel free to call 805-423-9174 to talk with a local expert or book online at PasoStay.com.
Directions: speedfind.com/PasoRoblesVacationRentals