the slo-life

One of the best finds on the outskirts of San Luis Obispo has got to be the Avila Valley Barn. I have a long time friendship with the owners and have watched this place grow from a barn to a thriving booming business. It is all due to the owners Bruce and Debbie. They have turned it into an outdoor experience. There is two lovely barns. One has mostly preserves and food items, along with some wonderful folk art and home decor must haves. There is a glass viewing area where you can watch the bakers at work baking up delicious treats. They are well known for their pies. Olallieberry, peach and apricot to name a few.

The second barn, located just a few feet away. has some nice books about the local history among other things. You can expect to find some old fashion sweets and barrels full of handy kitchen items. This barn also has many food items and a children's section too.

Between the barns you will walk around rows and crates full of fruits and vegetables, many grown right at the ranch.

If you time it right, you will have the choice of picking your own raspberries and olallieberries, or buying them fresh picked by the staff. They also offer a wagon ride to and from the picking orchard, where you will find apples, peaches and apricots to name a few.

When the corn is ripe, it is the sweetest, and on weekends they have a stand where you can purchase it fresh roasted, (I always get it dunked in butter).

There are many things to taste before you buy. You are always welcome to sample the fruit, something I really like. They have a grass area with tables and chairs for relaxing and enjoying the day.

Oh, did I mention they have an ice cream shop. It is a local brand with some very fresh flavors, and another room full of goodies to look at and buy.

Now, if all that doesn't impress you, they have a petting zoo. You can pet and feed the animals. This is truly a unique place. It is a must see if you are in the San Luis Obispo area.

I tell all my friends with kids, if you are just traveling through, stop there. It's just off the freeway, a great place to pick up some healthy snacks, and the kids can run around and strech out thier legs, and burn off some energy.

If you are leaving San Luis Obispo heading south it is about 10 minutes. Take the second Avila exit and head west (the only way you can go) you won't miss it it's only a half mile down the road.
If you are coming from Shell beach go north 1 mile and take the Avila Hot Spring exit , head west a half mile .It is well marked with lots of signs and you will always see a parking lot full of cars.

Opened 7 days a week. Phone them for more infomation at 805 595-2810
Enjoy.
If you have been there, please leave your comments. Thanks