Allow your itinerary some flexibility. Traveling directly to San Luis Obispo from San Diego is possible only 4 times daily, whereas service to Los Angeles is available from San Diego at least 12 times a day.
Let your stomach be your guide. Amtrak trains to San Luis Obispo offer only a café car on the eight-hour trip, while Traxx restaurant. in Union Station in Los Angeles offers a great meal in a classic setting.
Take advantage of Los Angeles' diversity. Across the street from Union Station in Los Angeles is the historical area of Olvera Street, which offers Mexican arts and crafts as well as amazing food. Take the Metro Gold Line to the Chinatown stop and enjoy authentic Chinese food.
Visit Los Angeles' many museums and performing arts venues. The Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art, as well as the Disney Concert Hall and Ahmanson Theater are all centrally located downtown.
Book an early arrival in San Luis Obispo. Train service arrives in San Luis Obispo daily at 2:00 p.m., 5:20 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 12:10 a.m.. Arrive sooner to take advantage of the downtown area, which tends to close early on weekdays.
Book a seat on the Coast Starlight route if time permits. Amtrak's Coast Starlight train travels from Los Angeles through San Luis Obispo once a day, departing Los Angeles at 10:15 a.m. and arriving in San Luis Obispo at 3:43 p.m.
Go wine tasting. There are numerous wineries in the San Luis Obispo area that offer tours and wine tasting. Visit the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce Web site for up to date information.
Visit Hearst Castle. A short trip from San Luis Obispo will take you to William Randolph Hearst's famous mansion full of world-class paintings and sculptures. Take a tour, but be ready for a lot of walking!
