Founded in 1798, the striking bleached facade with double bell tower and long arched passageway makes an unforgettable impression as you approach Mission San Luis Rey de Francia from Rancho del Oro and Mission Blvd. in Oceanside.  The church itself, containing many works of art, is a historic landmark, considered one of the most beautiful of all the mission churches.  The museum includes many colorful historic artifacts from Native American, Spanish, Mexican and American periods.  Open 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. daily.  Want to take home a momento of your visit?  You’ll find tons to choose from at the mission gift shop, including religious and Native American treasures. Open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Special events are always happening at the mission.  The visitor may tour the Mission Gardens with Friar James on Saturday, May 23rd at 10:00 a.m.  If you miss it, you can go to his Rose Garden Workshop, followed by a Wine and Music Reception, scheduled for June 18th, or walk along the Mission Trails with him in July.  Also coming up in June, an Indian Pow-Wow featuring Native American dancing, food, arts and crafts.  Mark your calendar for this year’s Dia de los Muertos celebration, scheduled for the beginning of November.  Whatever season you visit the “King of the Missions”, it’s bound to be memorable.

By Bonnie Maffei, REALTOR®

Oceanside Specialist, HomeReach.com

760-730-2191