Our Community

Think of the ideal community. A place so perfect that some say it doesn’t exist. You’d want it sunny, but not too hot; lively, but not too crowded; charming, but not kitschy. Of course you’d want it to be scenic too. On the practical side, the ideal community would need to link you to the rest of the world (at least some of the time!). You’d also want great schools, access to the performing and visual arts, a healthy job market and a safe and secure neighborhood with friendly and caring neighbors. In short, you’d want a great quality of life for you and your family. It’s not just a day dream. The perfect place does exist! It’s the Arroyo Grande Valley on the central coast of California.

Here’s a snapshot of things to see and do while you’re in Arroyo Grande.
  • In the Village of Arroyo Grande, the Heritage House Museum and Paulding House are open Saturdays noon to 3 p.m. and Sundays 1-4 p.m. Group tours are available.
  • Take a bouncing walk on one of the only remaining swinging bridges in California. Located in the heart of the village.
  • Farmer’s Market takes place twice a week in Arroyo Grande. Every Wednesday from 9 to 11:30 in the parking lot of Spencer’s Fresh Market, located at 1464 East Grand Avenue and on Saturdays from noon until 2:30 p.m in the village. Saturday Farmer’s Market often includes live music and an art show.
  • The Arroyo Grande Valley is a federally approved American Viticultural Area in recognition of the valley’s distinctive climate and soil characteristics. The Valley runs northeast-southwest and opens directly to the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the coolest and most temperate viticultural areas in California. With its unique climate and extended growing season, the Valley is one of only a handful of locations in the world with the exacting climatic conditions needed to produce world class Burgundian-style varietals. Enjoy fabulous estate grown chardonnays, pinot noirs and mèthode champenoise sparkling wines.
  • Camp, picnic, hike and water ski at the picturesque Lopez Lake Recreational Area, located only 10 miles northeast of Arroyo Grande. Kids will love the waterslides that operate during the summer when temperatures are warm and evenings balmy. The park has more than 300 individual and group campsites for tents or recreational vehicles. A launching ramp at the marina allows you to explore the 900+ acres of lake in a boat—rentals available. Fishing is excellent year-round with large, warm-water game fish like trout, crappie, catfish, black bass and bluegill. And, with almost 4,300 acres, there are plenty of hiking trails leading to fields of wildflowers and beautiful vistas. Don’t forget your camera!
  • Monarch butterflies spend the winter in a grove of eucalyptus trees at Pismo State Beach just a few miles from Arroyo Grande. About 50,000 Monarchs make this one of the largest winter sites in the United States. The grove is staffed daily 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., November through February, with talks at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
  • The Oceano Dunes State Recreational Vehicular Area is a popular site for off-road enthusiasts. (From Arroyo Grande, take Grand Avenue to the beach; turn left on Highway One and right on Pier Avenue.)  The Nature Center at the Oceano Campground (off Pier Ave.) is open 1-4 p.m., Friday-Sunday, September though May; and Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, June through August.
  • The James Way Oak Habitat and Wildlife Preserve is an equestrian and jogging trail along a hillside of majestic oaks. For spectacular colors and images, visit early morning or at sunset.

Arroyo Grande Parks

  • Strother Community Park - 1150 Huasna Road. Situated along the bank of Arroyo Grande Creek, the park is ideal for reunions, picnics and barbecues. Three large barbecue areas can be reserved in advance. Other amenities include horseshoe pits, softball field, a basketball court and a grass volleyball court.
  • Elm Street Park - 350 South Elm Street. Located next to the Soto Sports Complex, this park has a volleyball court and a nautical-themed playground with equipment for all ages. A large barbecue area, accommodating up to 75 people, and can be reserved in advance.
  • Rancho Grande Park - On James Way between Rancho Parkway and Rodeo Drive. The park has two play structures, a basketball court, horseshoe pits and open green spaces.
  • Health Fitness Park - Located behind the Arroyo Grande Hospital at Fair Oaks and Woodland Drive. Includes exercise stations, a heart-check monitor and jogging trails.
  • Hoosegow Park - On Le Point Street. This mini-park overlooks the Arroyo Grande Village and is home to the historic City Jailhouse built c. 1910.
  • Kiwanis Park - Behind City Hall in the Village. The park runs adjacent to Arroyo Grande creek.
  • Rotary Bandstand - At Nelson and Short Streets, this small, grassy park is used for community events, private rentals and picnics on the lawn.