Since the Edna Valley (part of SLO wine country) is literally minutes from the center of town, it’s easy to plan a trip that encompasses many of the wineries in the burgeoning region. You’ll be greeted by lush rolling hills, acres of vines and many family-owned wineries. Claiborne & Churchill, Baileyana, Tangent, Wolff and Edna Valley offer all the best of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, Grenache, Viognier, Zinfandel and more.

Before heading back downtown, stop at the Old Edna Townsite, home to a gourmet deli, antique shop and gallery and Bed & Breakfast. This SLO county landmark is over 100 years old. Picnics and box lunches are their specialty – eat in the Breakfast Cottage, a little gem onsite. It’s an experience to meet owner, Pattea Torrence, also known as the “mayor” of Old Edna. She’ll regale you with stories about the history of the area as well as her preservation efforts.

Time to Roll Out The Barrels. This annual event is held in the plaza of the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa (founded by Father Juniper Serra in 1772 and the fifth of California’s 21 missions). “Grown here, made here” is featured as more than 40 local vintners, food producers and purveyors offer the best of what SLO has to offer. Enjoy the delicious taste treats, wine samples and watch a demonstration of how to build a handcrafted French oak barrel.

In the evening, choose a winemaker dinner or party on Higuera Street at the Thursday Night Farmers Market. The crowd is overflowing; the produce is sensational, and the aromas from fresh cut flowers and smoky barbeque pits are enticing. If ribs and corn-on-the-cob are what you want, head right for McLintock’s – where you’ll surely need lots of napkins.

Don’t forget a visit to San Simeon for a tour of Hearst Castle on the way back to San Francisco. Designed by the legendary Julia Morgan in the early 1900s, the Castle of Dreams sits 1600 feet above sea level and five miles up a winding road off Highway 1. The celebrated William Randolph Hearst was always working on his magnificent estate where he spent endless days entertaining Hollywood royalty in the 1930s. The architecture, décor, landscape, pools and views are breathtaking.

SLO offers a laid back vibe in a time of uncertainty. Unwind, enjoy great wine and food, and take in the sites. It’s worth the drive knowing you won’t use your car much while there.

Essentials: Getting There: San Luis Obispo is 220 miles (about a four hour drive) south of San Francisco on Highway 101 (located at the intersection of Highway 1). Fly direct from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport.