Schoolhouse Wanders: Central Coast City Guide
The best experiences often come from seeing the world as more than an itinerary. To that end, we're starting a new series to connect with communities old and new. Each month, we'll ask various creatives near and far to give us the local scoop on the best places to eat, adventure, and imbibe in their city.
Given that we're experiencing an extra rainy month in our home state of Oregon, we asked a longtime Schoolhouse friend and the creative behind the newly opened Neighbors General Store (congrats!) to kick off the series on the sunny Central Coast of California. Below, Alex Creswell gives us a glimpse into her passion project and takes us around her Arroyo Grande home.
Neighbors has been a dream of mine for a long time, but the timing never felt quite right – until October 2022! This online shop turned brick and mortar has been so much fun! My dad and grandfather built the fixtures + furniture and having them be a part of the process has been the cherry on top.
I’m convinced Malik is one of the coolest and nicest people on the Central Coast. He’s carved out such an inspiring space. Highly curated vintage and new records, books, clothes, handmade pottery, and more fill his shop.
Just the cutest little antique store in the cutest little old house! They source beautiful vintage items and it’s impossible to leave empty handed. It’s one of my favorite shops to visit when I need a little inspiration.
Owner Amanecer is one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet! She created a mindful, welcoming, and delicious place that is well worth the drive and the wait. It’s always impossible to order because everything is so dang tasty – and allergy friendly.
Mule Bakery and my shop Neighbors are right next to each other. Mule is owned by brother sister dynamic duo, Chandler and Amanda. They make fresh pastries every day and they are some of the best you can get! There's almost always a line — so stop by early!
Located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, this historic 1922 building has been reimagined into a boutique hotel and bistro. The rooms are elevated and cozy, the food is beautiful and so tasty, and the cocktails are some of the best around. It’s a great place to stay for the weekend or to pop in for a fun dinner date.
If you’re in the area and want to wine taste, this spot is the perfect place to stay. The Olive House is nestled in a hillside with 360-degree views of rolling valleys, olive trees, and grape vines. It is designed for comfort and relaxation, with fireplaces, private terraces for morning coffee, and a beautiful courtyard. It is near dozens of vineyards, wineries, walking trails, and the charming town of Paso Robles.
A match made in heaven! Baileyana Wines is located inside an old Schoolhouse just outside of San Luis Obispo in Edna Valley. The views are some of the best and the atmosphere is fun and relaxing. Lincoln Deli has been around since 1941. They specialize in California style sandwiches, fine beverages, specialty groceries and curated gifts.
We’ve got options! Aside from the usual sandy beach fun, some of my favorite things are seeing the tide pools in Pismo Beach at low tide, watching the otters at Morro Bay, and eating oysters on the pier at Port San Luis.
Photography by Alex Creswell