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Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
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751 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
805-781-8220
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Description
Anchoring the central square of San Luis Obispo along the banks of a picturesque creek, the "old mission" as it's known is the town's central landmark and meeting place. One of the earliest missions, San Luis Obispo was founded fifth as the missionaries moved northward in 1772. But what really sets it apart is the lack of natural disasters to intervene; the building you visit today is the original adobe, started in 1773 and continued in stages over a hundred-year history. Kids will be moved by the grave marker of 5-year-old Adeline Eliza Dana, who was interred within the wall of the mission. Parents will like the historic beamed ceiling, carved wooden doors, and other artistic touches. Be sure to check out our other San Luis Obispo vacation ideas.
Historical Landmark
Special Collection
Kid Tips
Babies: The SLO mission is still a working parish, with the chapel often quiet or in use for worship, so it's not the best place to bring a rambunctious toddler or screaming baby, or you may get glares from those trying to enjoy the serenity and silence.
School-Age Kids: All California students study the missions in fourth grade and again in sixth or seventh grade. The SLO mission offers a nice, succinct history on its website, and there's also a useful write-up on the mission history site. Teachers appreciate when kids visit a mission on a family vacation, as it tends to fuel more enthusiastic participation when they get back to school.
Planning Notes
- Check on hours for the Mission museum. Located in the original Padre's Quarters is a small but interesting museum. It's easy to miss, as you enter through the gift shop.
Just the Facts
Hours: Seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fees: Free.
Recommended Time: Less than 1 hour
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