Downtown San Luis Obispo's most stately structure rises up from Mission Plaza. Founded in 1772 by Father Junipero Serra, it’s an impressive structure, fronted by an equally impressive beast—a sculpture of grizzly bear. These giant bears, now extinct in California, were once prevalent here, and spurred the name given to the region by the Portola expedition in 1769: La Cañada de los Osos (Valley of the Bears). (Grizzlies also made it onto the state flag.)
From the Plaza, look up to note the three bells suspended in the church façade. Inside, the classic mission design has a twist: a long secondary nave to the right of the altar. For more history and information, visit the mission’s excellent museum and its special focus on local Chumash Indians. Visiting on a Friday evening in summer? Lucky you. Join locals for free, family-friendly concerts featuring quality musicians from San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties in the beautiful Mission Plaza.