Alcohol-Free Travel: A Non-Drinker’s Guide to California’s Paso Robles Wine Country

Think you need a glass of vino to experience the magic of wine country? Think again. Whether you’re dabbling in the growing sober curious movement or looking for a lasting lifestyle change after the U.S. Surgeon General’s latest warning about the link between alcohol and cancer, minimizing your alcohol intake doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time. In fact, there are plenty of alcohol-free travel activities in California’s Paso Robles wine country that don’t revolve around drinking.

Where Is Paso Robles?

Paso Robles is one of California’s best kept secrets, located at the halfway point between Los Angeles and San Francisco. While it’s just a three-hour drive from these big cities, this quaint community of 31,000 people feels like a world away with its small-town charm, uber-chill vibe, gorgeous rolling hills, and incredible vineyards. Paso Robles is home to more than 200 wineries, many of them small, family-owned operations that have helped put this special region on the map.

What Are the Best Alcohol-Free Activities in Paso Robles?

There are many ways to have a blast without the booze — even in the middle of wine country. Fantastic food, natural hot springs, non-alcoholic wine tastings, art-filled experiences, and a charming downtown area are just a few of the “sober travel” attractions in Paso Robles. 

Fun Things to Do in Paso Robles Besides Wine Tasting

Visiting wine country doesn’t mean you have to drink. Perhaps you’re cutting back on your alcohol consumption, traveling with teetotalers (or children), or simply want to mix things up.

In any event, consider this your alcohol-free travel guide to Paso Robles. It’s perfect for food enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone who wants to unwind, enjoy a slower pace of life, and embrace the beauty of nature in Central California.

Go Olive Oil Tasting

While there’s been some debate about the health benefits of red wine, you can’t argue with the positive health effects of extra virgin olive oil. To get a potent dose of polyphenols, check out Pasolivo, a 140-acre ranch where olives are grown, harvested, and pressed onsite from trees that are hundreds of years old. Have fun sampling everything from classic EVOO to garlic, rosemary, citrus, and other flavors. If you can’t make it to the ranch, head to the tasting room in downtown Paso and enjoy a stroll around town.

For another great olive oil tasting, don’t miss a trip to Kiler Ridge Olive Oil Farm. This family-owned farm produces award-winning, small-batch, certified-organic EVOO and offers $10 tastings Thursday-Monday along with tours on the weekends. Just be sure to book ahead of time as reservations are required.

Bonus tip: Even though it’s technically in Templeton, which is right next to Paso Robles, it would be remiss not to mention Ambyth Estate. It’s the area’s first Demeter-certified biodynamic winery that also happens to produce the most incredible olive oil. Visits to this sprawling, family-owned vineyard (replete with llamas and sheep!) are by appointment only, so call or email ahead of time with your special request and they’ll get back to you.

Indulge in Delicious Local Food

While there are many highly rated restaurants in Paso Robles, many of them don’t allow for menu modifications. Here’s a quick list of top restaurants that cater to seagan and vegan preferences or will customize dishes to accommodate different diets.

The Vreamery:This small kitchen and storefront inside the Paso Market Walk food hall focuses on artisanal, plant-based cheeses and charcuterie that’ll impress vegans and omnivores alike. The owner Jennifer curates a top-notch selection of cheeses from brands like Rebel, Virgin, and Reine that you can buy by the ounce or add to your custom grazing box (perfect for a picnic or hot tub sesh). She also offers a variety of baked goods, paninis, and other daily specials.

Spice of Life: Another woman-owned small business, Spice of Life is a fantastic tea shop that offers an enormous selection of loose-leaf and bagged teas, tea accessories, and spices and herbs, plus a menu of plant-based bites. The owner Lori and her staff are always so welcoming and helpful, plus they make fabulous tea lattes, avocado toast, and salads.

Finca: For fresh, flavorful Baja- and Sonora-style Mexican food, it doesn’t get better than this fast-casual dining spot. Situated in a charming Victorian house with a lovely wraparound patio, this is where to go for delicious wood-grilled fare and delightful ambiance. The chips and salsa are insanely good as are the variety of tacos and daily specials.

Ziggy’s: This tiny spot in downtown Paso Robles is a must when those fast-food cravings hit hard. From the juicy burgers and ridiculously tasty breakfast burrito (made with tater tots) to the soft-serve ice cream cones and shakes, this place is 100% plant-based decadence.

Red Scooter Deli: This bustling joint is an ideal spot for picking up wraps, sandwiches, sides, or lunch boxes when you’re heading off to a picnic or tour. You can also chill at one of the outdoor tables. Whatever you decide, you’ll be treated to an extensive menu of vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and keto options.

Alchemist’s Garden:While this popular dinner spot is known for its enormous drink list and stunning cocktails — not to mention the prettiest menu artwork you’ve ever seen — the food is just as impressive. Try the mushroom medley, curried veggies, and yellowfin tostadas.

Bonus tip: There are five Michelin-recognized restaurants in Paso Robles that look like great options if you don’t have any dietary restrictions.

Soak In a Private Mineral Hot Tub Overlooking Vineyards

Hot tubbing is always a fun idea, but when you add gorgeous hillside scenery, it’s a truly winning combination. At River Oaks Hot Springs Spa, you can soak in your own private mineral hot tub overlooking rolling vineyards for $28 an hour. The outdoor tubs are ideal during the warmer months while the semi-indoor tubs are best for chillier days (or nights).

Bonus tip: If you happen to be visiting during the week, there’s a fantastic deal on Tuesdays and Wednesdays — just $32 an hour for two people.

Explore Downtown Paso Robles on Foot (You Can Park for Free)

Stroll and shop along downtown Paso’s quaint tree-lined streets brimming with small businesses. At the center of town is City Park offering plenty of benches, a gazebo, playground, and Paso Robles Carnegie Library, part of the National Register of Historic Places. The park has a weekend farmers market and events throughout the year. For example, during the holidays the entire park is aglow at night with beautiful Christmas lights wrapped around the trees while costumed carolers stroll around downtown.

Raise a Glass of Alcohol-Free Wine and Cocktails

There are hundreds of wineries in Paso Robles, and there are also no-alcohol options you can enjoy without compromising on flavor or ambiance. For instance, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wine makes alcohol-free wine onsite, allowing you to drink from the vine zero-proof style. Enjoy tastings of non-alcoholic Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon at the family-owned tasting room overlooking the sustainably farmed vineyard, then take home a bottle or two.

If you’re in the mood for pretty drinks in the middle of town, you can’t go wrong with Alchemist’s Garden. As mentioned, this spot is ground zero for stunning cocktails, but the mocktails also stand out. Try the “My Bee and Me” with apple, honey cordial, chocolate bitters, and club soda or the “Binds & Brambles” made with NA gin, blackberry, and lemon.

Get a Dose of Art & Culture Among the Galleries and Outdoor Light Show

Strolling through downtown Paso Robles is not only great for shopping, eating, and enjoying the park — there are also numerous art galleries to explore. Step inside Studios on the Park, a non-profit art center where you’ll discover 10 working studios with 50 local artists. You can also check out Park Street Gallery and Dale Evers Studio — you’ll see some of the latter’s larger-than-life sculptures downtown as well.

Once the sun goes down, head over to the famous Sensorio field, described as “the intersection of art, technology, and nature.” This massive outdoor art exhibition is one of the largest in California, featuring 100,000 glowing bulbs laid out across acres of rolling hills.

Treat Yourself to a Massage (Without Breaking the Bank)

Nothing says relaxation like a massage, and one of the best you’ll have is at Zen Paso. Located within walking distance of downtown Paso, this woman-owned studio is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy some serious self-care without spending a fortune. Not only has owner Maria created a tranquil, comfortable space but her magic touch also ensures you’ll leave feeling fully relaxed, refreshed, and revitalized.

Have Fun at the Farmers Market

Take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the area at the weekend farmers market in downtown Paso Robles and neighboring Templeton. You’ll not only find fresh produce but also plenty of prepared foods like piping-hot tamales, fresh juices, live music, and local artisans selling handmade wares.

Take a Drive and Enjoy the Scenery

You likely don’t want to spend loads of time in your vehicle on vacation. However, driving through the tree-lined back roads, rolling hills, and valleys of Paso Robles and its surrounding areas is a true adventure and one of the best ways to take in this region’s natural beauty.

Some of the most spectacular drives include Adelaide Road, Vineyard Drive, Booker Road, Old Highway, and Route 46, which you can take to the coastal towns of Cambria, San Luis Obispo, and San Simeon (home of Hearst Castle and Elephant Seal Vista Point). Best of all, you don’t have to worry about driving under the influence so you can safely enjoy the views.

Have an Awesome Adventure With These Alcohol-Free Travel Ideas in Paso Robles Wine Country

As the alcohol-free movement and sober travel trend continue to grow, it’s no surprise that people are looking for things to do other than drinking. Thankfully, California’s wine country isn’t all about vino pours and vineyard tours. From olive oil tastings and bucolic hot tubbing to non-alcoholic sipping and scenic drives, there’s a whole world waiting for the non-drinker to have a fun-filled experience. 

What are some of your favorite alcohol-free travel activities and destinations? Please share in the comments below!

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