Mission Plaza: The Heart of San Luis Obispo
A vibrant hub in downtown San Luis Obispo, blending history, culture, and natural beauty in a central gathering place.
Mission Plaza, located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, is a vibrant public space that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Flanked by the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, the plaza offers a place for relaxation, community events, and exploration of the city's rich heritage.
A brief summary to Mission Plaza
- 989 Chorro St, San Luis Obispo, Downtown Historic District, California, 93401, US
- +1805-781-7067
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the summer for the free Concerts in the Plaza series on Friday evenings.
- Explore the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, located adjacent to the plaza, to learn about the area's history.
- Take a stroll along the restored San Luis Obispo Creek that runs through the plaza.
Getting There
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Walking
Mission Plaza is centrally located in downtown San Luis Obispo, making it easily accessible on foot from most downtown locations. From Higuera Street, the main thoroughfare, walk west towards the Mission. The plaza is located directly in front of the Mission, between Chorro and Broad Streets.
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Public Transport
SLO Transit provides bus service within San Luis Obispo. Several bus routes stop near Mission Plaza. Check SLO Transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. The Old SLO Trolley also serves the downtown area. A single ride on the trolley costs $0.25.
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Parking
Several parking garages are located within walking distance of Mission Plaza. Garages are located on Palm Street and Marsh Street. Hourly rates are $2.00, with a maximum daily rate of $8.00. Street parking is also available, enforced Monday - Saturday 9 AM - 9 PM and Sundays 1–9 PM. Street parking costs $2.75 per hour in the downtown core.
Discover more about Mission Plaza
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
0.1 km
Explore the historical charm and serene beauty of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a must-visit cultural landmark in California's vibrant city.
California Historical Landmark No. 802
0.2 km
Explore the rich history of San Luis Obispo at California Historical Landmark No. 802, a significant site that showcases the city's vibrant past.
Jack House & Gardens
0.3 km
Discover Victorian elegance and local history at the Jack House & Gardens in San Luis Obispo, a beautifully preserved estate offering a glimpse into the lives of a prominent pioneer family.
Myron Angel House
0.5 km
Experience the historical essence of San Luis Obispo at Myron Angel House, a captivating landmark showcasing rich architectural heritage.
Pismo Beach, California
12.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Pismo Beach, California, a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure by the sea.
Shell Beach Brew House
13.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of craft brews and coastal ambiance at Shell Beach Brew House, a must-visit brewpub in Pismo Beach, California.
City of Pismo Beach Building Division
13.6 km
Discover the workings of Pismo Beach at the City Building Division, where local governance meets coastal charm and community development.
Kristin's Point of Hope
14.1 km
Experience tranquility at Kristin's Point of Hope, a serene coastal space of remembrance along Pismo Beach’s stunning California Coastal Trail.
Kon Tiki Inn
15.0 km
Unwind at Kon Tiki Inn in Pismo Beach, where oceanfront views, comfortable accommodations, and local adventures await every traveler.
John Price House
15.1 km
Explore the historical significance of John Price House in Pismo Beach, a charming landmark showcasing California's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Honeymoon cafe
15.3 km
Discover the charm of Honeymoon Cafe in Pismo Beach, a cozy cafe known for its delicious breakfast and warm coastal ambiance, perfect for tourists.
Tastes of the Valleys
15.4 km
Explore the essence of California's wine culture at Tastes of the Valleys in Pismo Beach, a perfect blend of relaxation and flavor.
Sans Liege Wines
15.4 km
Experience the artistry of winemaking at Sans Liege Wines in Pismo Beach, where each sip tells a story of passion and creativity.
Puffer's of Pismo
15.5 km
Discover Puffer's of Pismo, a charming wine bar in Pismo Beach offering exquisite wines and live music for an unforgettable coastal experience.
Old West Cinnamon Rolls
15.5 km
Experience the iconic Old West Cinnamon Rolls in Pismo Beach, where oversized cinnamon rolls and delightful baked goods await your taste buds.
Unmissable attractions to see
Santa's House - Mission Plaza
0.0 km
Discover the magic of Santa's House at Mission Plaza in San Luis Obispo, a festive destination filled with joy, creativity, and unforgettable holiday spirit.
San Luis Obispo Museum of Art
0.0 km
Explore contemporary art with a focus on local talent at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, a cultural gem in California's Central Coast.
History Center of San Luis Obispo County
0.0 km
Discover San Luis Obispo County's captivating past through exhibits, collections, and research at the History Center.
Mission Plaza Lighting Spectacular
0.1 km
Experience the magic of dazzling lights in historic Mission Plaza, San Luis Obispo. A vibrant spectacle for all ages!
Downtown SLO Farmers' Market
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant Downtown SLO Farmers' Market: fresh produce, delicious food, and live entertainment every Thursday evening!
Old Mission Gift Shop and Museum
0.1 km
Experience the unique blend of culture and shopping at the Old Mission Gift Shop and Museum in San Luis Obispo, California.
Fountain
0.1 km
A refreshing oasis in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, the fountain on Chorro Street offers a tranquil escape and a picturesque setting.
San Luis Obispo Children's Museum
0.2 km
Discover interactive learning and playful creativity at the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum, a top family-friendly destination in California.
Karson Butler Events at the Ah Louis Store
0.2 km
Discover the legacy of Ah Louis at this historic landmark, a vibrant reminder of San Luis Obispo's Chinese heritage and pioneering spirit.
Palm Theatre - Home of the SLO Film Center
0.2 km
Discover the charm of the Palm Theatre in San Luis Obispo, your gateway to indie films and cinematic events in a cozy, welcoming environment.
San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre
0.3 km
Discover captivating performances at the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre, a cultural gem in California's vibrant arts scene.
Fremont Theater
0.4 km
Experience the grandeur of a bygone era at the Fremont Theater, San Luis Obispo's historic Streamline Moderne movie palace turned vibrant concert venue.
San Luis Obispo Saturday Mornings Farmers Market
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture of San Luis Obispo at the Saturday Farmers Market, featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live entertainment.
Taste of SLO - Walking Food Tour
8.4 km
Discover the best of San Luis Obispo's culinary delights on the Taste of SLO Walking Food Tour – a flavorful journey through local cuisine.
Vista point
8.8 km
Discover the stunning vistas at Vista Point in Los Osos, California, a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Essential places to dine
Marisol at The Cliffs
13.0 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Marisol at The Cliffs in Pismo Beach.
Lido Restaurant & Lounge
13.0 km
Experience fine dining at Lido Restaurant & Lounge in Pismo Beach, where gourmet seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.
Mei's | Chinese Restaurant
13.5 km
Experience the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine at Mei's Restaurant in Shell Beach - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
F. McLintocks Saloon and Dining House
13.6 km
Experience premium steak dining at F. McLintocks Saloon in Shell Beach - where flavor meets coastal charm.
Cape Cod Eatery & Taphouse
13.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cape Cod Eatery & Taphouse in Shell Beach - where fresh ingredients meet craft beer and brunch delights.
Zorro's Cafe & Cantina
13.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Zorro's Cafe & Cantina in Shell Beach—where every meal is a celebration!
The Green Olive Pismo Beach
13.8 km
Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at The Green Olive Pismo Beach, where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality in a beautiful coastal setting.
Ventana Grill
14.5 km
Experience exceptional grilled cuisine and stunning ocean views at Ventana Grill in Pismo Beach – your perfect culinary escape.
Blast & Brew American Eatery and Tap House
14.7 km
Experience delightful dining at Blast & Brew American Eatery - your go-to destination for great food and craft beers in Pismo Beach.
Oasis Restaurant & Catering Moroccan / Mediterranean Cuisine and Seafood
15.1 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Morocco and the Mediterranean at Oasis Restaurant & Catering in Pismo Beach.
Vista Steak and Seafood
15.1 km
Experience exquisite dining with stunning ocean views at Vista Steak and Seafood in Pismo Beach.
Del's Pizzeria
15.2 km
Experience the best pizza and authentic Italian cuisine at Del's Pizzeria in Pismo Beach—where flavor meets tradition.
Papi's Grill
15.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Papi's Grill in Pismo Beach - a culinary gem offering vibrant flavors and warm hospitality.
Penny's All American Cafe
15.3 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Penny's All American Cafe in Pismo Beach - where classic flavors meet cozy vibes.
Giuseppe's Cucina Italiana
15.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Giuseppe's Cucina Italiana in Pismo Beach - where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beach Love Boutique
13.6 km
Experience the coastal charm at Beach Love Boutique, where beach-inspired fashion meets unique style in the heart of Pismo Beach.
Village pottery
13.8 km
Explore the vibrant world of handcrafted ceramics at Village Pottery, where local artistry meets unique shopping in Shell Beach, California.
Wildflower Women Boutique
15.4 km
Explore the charm of Wildflower Women Boutique - your go-to destination for unique women's clothing and accessories in Pismo Beach.
The Bling Boutique
15.6 km
Discover the charm of The Bling Boutique in Pismo Beach, a premier women's clothing store offering stylish apparel and unique accessories for every occasion.
West Coast Attítude
15.6 km
Discover the ultimate shopping destination in Pismo Beach, featuring trendy clothing and accessories that embody the coastal California spirit.
Pismo Beach Candy Co.
15.6 km
Explore a world of sweets at Pismo Beach Candy Co., where every candy lover finds their bliss with a variety of treats and delightful confections.
Dynasty Gems
15.6 km
Explore Dynasty Gems, a unique gift shop in Pismo Beach, offering handcrafted jewelry and one-of-a-kind treasures for memorable souvenirs.
Beach Bum
15.6 km
Explore Beach Bum, the charming souvenir store in Pismo Beach, offering unique treasures and local artisan crafts to commemorate your coastal adventure.
X-Pressions
15.6 km
Explore X-Pressions, the quintessential boutique in Pismo Beach for unique fashion and local artisan gifts, capturing the spirit of California's coastline.
S-D
15.7 km
Explore S-D in Pismo Beach for unique t-shirts that capture the essence of California's coastal charm, perfect for every tourist's wardrobe.
X-PRESSIONS family
15.7 km
Experience the charm of X-PRESSIONS Family Boutique in Pismo Beach, where local culture meets unique shopping delights.
Desa's
15.7 km
Explore the charming Desa's Gift Shop in Pismo Beach for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and stylish clothing that capture the essence of California coastal culture.
Ashtie's Beach Shack
15.7 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local treasures at Ashtie's Beach Shack in Pismo Beach, California's charming coastal boutique.
Pier Gifts
15.7 km
Discover a delightful array of souvenirs, clothing, and unique finds at Pier Gifts in Pismo Beach, where coastal charm meets unforgettable shopping.
Drift Boutique
15.7 km
Explore Drift Boutique in Pismo Beach for unique women's fashion that perfectly captures the California lifestyle and charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Break
15.5 km
Discover The Break in Pismo Beach, a vibrant grill offering delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and an energetic atmosphere for an unforgettable coastal dining experience.
Micheladas
15.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Micheladas in Pismo Beach, where refreshing drinks and a lively ambiance await.
HotShots Billiards & Family Entertainment
15.7 km
Discover a lively bar and entertainment hub in Pismo Beach, where delicious American cuisine meets fun-filled games for all ages.
La Aroma De Havana Cigar Bar & Lounge
15.7 km
Discover the ultimate cigar experience at La Aroma De Havana Cigar Bar & Lounge in Pismo Beach, where fine cigars meet exceptional wines and craft beers.
Harry's Night Club & Beach Bar
15.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Harry's Night Club & Beach Bar in Pismo Beach, where live music, dancing, and refreshing drinks await.
Cali Love Wine - Pismo Beach
15.7 km
Experience vibrant wine culture at Cali Love Wine in Pismo Beach - perfect for wine lovers and karaoke enthusiasts alike!
The Rooftop
15.8 km
Discover the ultimate lounge experience at The Rooftop in Pismo Beach, where stunning ocean views and exquisite dining await all tourists.
The Boardroom Beer Pub
15.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse craft beer selection at The Boardroom Beer Pub in Pismo Beach, a must-visit for sports fans and foodies.