As spring quarter rolls on, so does the warmer weather. For some people, this may spark the desire to dive into a new hobby. Whether you are interested in trying something new or are simply itching to get out of your comfort zone, there are several activities in the San Luis Obispo area to try. From shaping surfboards in the Cal Poly ASI Craft Center to shooting arrows at Central Coast Archery, there is no shortage of ways to expand your horizons.
Get crafty: Visit the ASI Craft Center
The Cal Poly ASI Craft Center — located in the University Union on campus — hosts workshops accessible to all students, staff and Cal Poly alumni. From jewelry crafting to skateboard making, the center offers classes, studio passes and tools for a variety of mediums. They also have virtual opportunities for painting classes, sewing, and other fun crafts for those who prefer the comfort of their own home.
Throw axes: Battle Axe in Downtown San Luis Obispo
Few people can say their town has an indoor axe-throwing center — a place where you and your friends can safely throw sharp objects. Battle Axe is a recent addition to Downtown SLO and has already attracted a lot of attention. According to their website, it is one of the fastest-growing entertainment venues in the San Luis Obispo area.
“It was super fun and different,” child development junior Amaya Fuller said. “They explained the rules well, and I felt very safe.”
Take up archery: Central Coast Archery
Central Coast Archery is an indoor archery range open to all visitors. If you have never held a bow and arrow before, no worries! Central Coast Archery offers classes and private lessons for those who want to learn. If you want to practice on your own, they also have freestyle hourly lanes.
Volunteer with animals: Cal Poly Cat Program
Volunteering with the Cal Poly Cat program is another activity right on campus. According to the Cal Poly Cat program website, the program provides great aid to “many scared, elderly, special needs and shy cats that other shelters deemed unadoptable.” If you enjoy being around animals, the shelter is always looking for volunteers to help out with their cat sanctuary and other projects and events.
Take up sewing: Visit Picking Daisies
To avoid wasteful fast fashion, more people have begun upcycling clothes. If you want to try to make your own clothes or upcycle your thrift finds, there are many fabric stores in the area to help you get started. Picking Daisies is located in The Creamery Marketplace and has a wide selection of fabric, patterns, notions and needle art to peruse.
Try horseback riding: visit Madonna Inn Trail Rides
With Cal Poly being home to many horses, you will not have to go far to begin your horseback riding journey. Trying horseback riding is the perfect way to explore the SLO scene and get in touch with nature. Madonna Inn Trail Rides is the closest place to Cal Poly that offers horseback riding to visitors. Guests can trot along the hillside and explore paths behind Madonna Inn while enjoying SLO’s scenic views.
