Learn by Doing
Cathy Koos
On an old ranch sprawled between Hwy 1 and Hwy 101, the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo campus is snugged against coastal mountains to the east and the rolling Pacific Ocean directly west. Brisk coastal breezes keep the campus fresh and temperate all year ‘round.
Figure 1 Rob Bulmuhn
Founded in 1903, Cal Poly’s “learn by doing” philosophy began when a group of concerned citizens lobbied the state for a college in 1894. Ushered in by the Progressive Era, Cal Poly became one of the leading co-educational colleges in the West.
Once part of the historic 3,500-acre Rancho Potrero de San Luis Obispo, the yak titʸu titʸu yak tiłhini tribe of Indigenous Northern Chumash were the earliest residents of the central coast of California whose homeland can be in general described as the San Luis Obispo County region. They are considered as one of the most famous Indian tribes in America.
Today’s visitors can enjoy a vast array of activities and sightseeing. A dozen scenic miles brings you to Morro Bay and its famous ancient volcanic mound – Morro Rock. A trip to Morro Bay would not be complete without stopping in at Morro Rock State Park and its Natural History Museum, featuring exhibits on ecology and native culture. Birders, hikers, and beach walkers can get their fill, and then fill their bellies at one of the many eateries in the area.
Figure 2 Morro Rock, morrobay.org
San Luis Obispo proper is a treat for visitors, ranging from the colorful farmers market on Higuera Street to the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, which features contemporary art and sculpture.
Figure 3 courtesy Los Osos Farmers Market
A very walkable downtown, visitors can see historic architecture, eclectic shops and eateries, and wine tasting. And don’t forget to visit Bubblegum Alley, whose walls are covered with … bubblegum. For those who like to imbibe, more than a dozen breweries, distilleries and wineries offer your tastebuds a real treat.
Figure 4 courtesy slocal.com
For more information: https://www.slocal.com/places-to-visit/san-luis-obispo/things-to-do/