Mission San Luis Obispo De Tolosa
The Museum and Gift Shop are now open and daily docent tours are now running! For current information, please visit the website.
A gem among the historic Spanish California missions, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is a must-see for history buffs, family vacationers and California tourists.
Founded by Father Junipero Serra on September 1, 1772, and built on its current foundation in 1792, the Mission, which continues to be an active church, lies at the center of modern-day Downtown San Luis Obispo, California on a traffic-free block of Palm Street between Chorro and Broad. As you enter the church’s main doors, the natural light illuminates the pews and wall art, leading to down to the altar. Across the garden from the church stands the remodeled Parish Hall, a 4,400 square foot meeting place for various classes, dinners and gatherings.
Just outside the Mission sits the spacious community park and San Luis Creek, commonly known as Mission Plaza. Mission Plaza faces the bustling shopping and dining district, as well as hosts multiple community events: the free summer Concerts in the Plaza series, the monthly Bike Night and Santa’s House during the holiday season. Other cause-related events in Mission Plaza include the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s in the Plaza, an event dedicated to providing resources to patients and caregivers. The San Luis Obispo Mission Plaza has been and continues to be an integral fixture in the SLO community.
HISTORY OF MISSION SAN LUIS OBISPO DE TOLOSA: 1772 – TODAY
Mission San Luis Obispo history is rich and the development of the land is deeply rooted by it. The fifth California mission, founded by Father Serra, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa was named after Saint Louis, Bishop of Toulouse, France. The vestibule, added in 1820, along with other expansions and restorations have been made to allow for the growing number of parishioners in the Mission. Recently, the iconic grizzly bear statue was added in Mission Plaza to celebrate the original discovery of the Valley of the Bears during the missionaries’ exploration. Today, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa stands as the central parish church for the City of San Luis Obispo.
Fun Facts About Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
With a history dating back hundreds of years, there’s plenty to learn (and love) about the Mission:
– The Mission’s church bells were made in 1818 in Peru, and recast in 1878
– The Mission walls stand 50-60 feet tall
– The Mission’s roof was originally covered in tiles to defend against flaming arrows
– The surrounding area was known for its dense bear population
– Sheep and cattle were once raised here by the Spanish
MISSION SAN LUIS OBISPO DE TOLOSA TOURS
Visit the mission and enjoy a free Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa tour. After your tour of the buildings, explore the museum and gift shop as well as the thriving garden featuring a well, fountains and trellises. Docent-led group tours begin daily at 1:15 p.m. in front of the Mission. The spacious Mission Plaza and grassy slopes surrounding the creek make for great picnic grounds after your tour.
If you are interested in a tour for your school or organization, schedule a docent-led tour using Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa’s tour application form and send the completed form to [email protected].
SAN LUIS OBISPO MISSION AND THE SLO COMMUNITY
The San Luis Obispo community thrives with a deep connection to its historic roots, with the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa playing a central role in daily life for both locals and visitors. As a landmark of California’s early agricultural history, the mission’s legacy is reflected in the region’s vibrant wine trade, having once established one of the first vineyards in the state. Today, the mission continues to be a gathering place, celebrating its rich heritage while fostering community and cultural engagement.
San Luis Obispo MISSION MASS SCHEDULE
Mass is held daily at Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, although the schedule may differ on Holy Days and special occasions. Visit the official website for more additional information.
Monday through Friday: 7:00 a.m. and 12:10 p.m.
Saturday: 7:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Sunday:
- English: 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
- Spanish: 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
CONTACT
751 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is renowned for its historical significance as one of California’s original 21 missions, founded in 1772 by Father Junípero Serra. It is particularly known for its beautiful architecture, peaceful gardens, and role in shaping California’s early agricultural economy, especially in the vineyard and wine trade. The mission remains an active parish and community center, attracting visitors who come to explore its rich history and serene atmosphere.
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Admission to Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is free, though donations are appreciated to help maintain the mission and its grounds. Visitors are welcome to explore the church, museum, and gardens at no cost, making it an accessible destination for those interested in California’s history and culture.
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Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa was never completely destroyed, but it did face significant challenges throughout its history. In 1832, the mission’s original thatched roof caught fire during a native Chumash uprising, leading to its destruction. The mission was later rebuilt with a tile roof to prevent future fires. Additionally, like many California missions, it experienced decline after secularization in the 1830s but was restored over time and remains standing today as a historic site.