Old Town Historic District
The Old Town Historic District of San Luis Obispo in California is located on the southern shores of the scenic Sea of Cortez. Old Town Square has been restored to its 1820s appearance with beautiful gardens and hotels in this historically preserved district. Travelers will enjoy the shopping in Old Town and stroll the narrow streets that wind around historic buildings. The Old Town Historic District is also home to the Seaport Village, designed for two waterfront resorts.
The history of Old Town began in the 16th century when it was a small village. It was founded as a place to live by Spanish fishers who constructed homes and churches. The Spanish used this village as a trading post and began developing the modern town hall that still exists today. Spanish, French, and Italian immigrants made Old Town one of the most popular destinations in San Luis Obispo County. The area was heavily populated during the gold rush in the late nineteenth century, and the buildings and streets were built in haste.
With the many attractions in the area, it is easy to see why San Luis Obispo is so famous. Walking along Hwy 9 near Valley Street offers an insight into the history and the heritage of the area. You can take a walking tour through Old Town to see colonial structures and historical bones. You will see beautiful homes constructed of redwood and cedar and antique shops displaying unique items. It is also possible to tour San Luis Obispo’s historic Gaslamp Quarter by starting at the Gaslamp Quarter Museum.
The Old Town Square is a historical gathering place that is open every day. Tourists can enjoy free guided tours of the grounds and learn about the Spanish influence upon the area. You can sit and enjoy coffee with friends and family while strolling through Old Town. If you are interested in history, you can visit the Santa Fe Historic Site situated north of Old Town. This site contains an active archeological site with exhibits and information about Native Americans’ lives through the years.
A stroll through the streets is a delightful experience. You will see cobblestone sidewalks, brick sidewalks, and narrow lanes where ancient houses were built. Within Old Town, there are historical buildings such as Mission Cathedral, Santa Fe Depot, City Hall, Presidio Hotel, and City Hall. The Presidio has a beautiful restaurant that serves lunch and dinner.
The historic Gaslamp Quarter is a popular tourist destination. You will find beautiful antiques here, including colonial-style architecture and exciting museum exhibits. Many hotels, restaurants, and shops are located in this historic area. On a hot summer day, tourists traveling to the district will find a cool breeze and panoramic mountain scenes. The summer heat is still on, but you will find a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.