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Paso Robles ranked fifth in best Main Street list

April 28, 2026

By KAREN VELIE

Paso Robles made the top 10 best Main Streets in the United States, with the downtown ranked fifth by USA Today.

Main streets across the United States are experiencing a renaissance,” according to USA Today. “Once abandoned and boarded up as people shifted to the suburbs, these iconic thoroughfares are now thriving. These 10 places with charming main streets — nominated by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best in the U.S. — offer more than just a road; these streets are living history, have a vibrant culture, and serve as the hearts of their communities.”

Paso Robles was selected because of its historic downtown that includes wine tasting, great restaurants and shopping. USA Today recommends spending the night at the Paso Robles Inn to allow time for enjoying the food, history and outdoor activities.

Top 10 top Main Streets in the United States

  • First – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
  • Second – Waynesville, North Carolina.
  • Third – Emporia, Kansas
  • Fourth –  Howell, Michigan
  • Fifth – Paso Robles, California
  • Sixth – Ogden, Utah.
  • Seventh – Ocean City, New Jersey
  • Eighth – McMinnville, Oregon
  • Ninth – Grapevine Texas
  • Tenth – Virginia City, Nevada

 


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When I read the endless negativity in the comments (How on earth does an award to Downtown Paso hurt you?) I wish the writers would tell us of their great achievements. You want a business on the Park that pleases you, open it yourself & quit complaining. Don’t like the wine industry then open a business that sells soda. Pay rent, hire employees andake the risks, I did and I would never knock someone who has.


3

Although, I do love the General Store and Kahunas.


0

The wino industry has ruined our downtown! Our small town park is surrounded by boozeries, and nothing for families, especially children. So much for good ol Paso Robles. Shopping??? Where? Used to have stores that we loved shopping in, but now?


2

Great restaurants? Seriously, which one?


We’ve tried them all, before they eventually close. Wasted a ton of money on these types of “great restaurant” tips.


SLO Cty YELP reviewers think almost any “decent” meal is worthy of a 4+ star rating. Far from it.


We really would like to find a (consistent) GREAT restaurant. Preferably, in North County.


-2

Does the award honor Spring Street north of 21st? If so they might also want to consider recognizing Crenshaw Boulevard in LA.


-2

Yawn.


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