A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Lompoc

Lompoc’s quaint downtown has restaurants, shops, and art, all encompassed in a small-town vibe that many cities have lost. The historic downtown, known as Old Town, is home to family-owned restaurants, eclectic shops, and murals that span entire buildings. With everything so close together, it’s a great place for a self-guided walking tour. 

On your next trip to Lompoc, be sure to carve out some time to follow this walking tour around Old Town:

• Start off with some lunch

There are some great restaurants in Old Town, but we suggest parking your car at the Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce on South I Street and heading to American Host Restaurant. This local favorite serves up great breakfast and lunch dishes. 

• Take in the city’s iconic murals

American Host is the perfect launch point for a mural tour. The city of Lompoc has 30+ murals scattered about the city, many of which are along

Art Alley, which is just down the street from the restaurant.  

On the North wall of Art Alley, you’ll see your first mural called, The Boatman. Turn around and you will see the mural Feeding Time. This almost-life-size painting of a T-Rex is a visitor favorite. Head back towards the chamber of commerce to see Lompoc Pioneers, a mural on the old Moore Store, which used to be the largest retail store between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Head east along Art Alley to see more murals. This handy mural map from Explore Lompoc will help you see a few more artistic wonders before heading towards a local art gallery.

• Visit the Cypress Gallery

You’ve seen massive murals, now it’s time to check out art on a smaller scale. Inside the Cypress Gallery, just a block south of Art Alley, you’ll find art on display from 60+ local artists. You’ll see a variety of fine art, which includes watercolors, oils, acrylics, pastels, mixed media, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and more.  

The gallery is only open on the weekends or by appointment.

• Grab a quick drink

After walking for a bit, it’s time to take a break. 

If you’re in the mood for a beer or cocktail, stop by Jasper’s. You can order one of 20 different local brews that are on tap and play a quick game of pool before heading to your next stop. Looking for the brewery vibe? Stop by Cold Coast Brewery on West Ocean started by 4 locals. In more of a wine mood? Stop by the PCH Street Wine Lounge.

If you’d rather have an iced coffee or a latte, South Side Coffee Co. is a good choice. 

• Check out a vintage sign

It’s time to wrap up your walking tour, but before you head back to your car, walk a little farther north to West Ocean Avenue. Along this street is one of five neon signs in Lompoc. The vintage sign sits above the Rice Bowl, a Chinese restaurant, with a funky picture of a bowl decorated with vibrant letters. 

After snapping a picture of the retro sign, head back to your car at the Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce.

A walking tour of Old Town is one of the many things you can do in Lompoc. When you’re ready to book your stay, be sure to check out some of these additional adventures that will make your getaway even better.