History of Paso Robles

Historic Paso Robles_12th StreetPaso Robles began as a natural hot springs destination, eventually grew into an agricultural economy, and during the 20th century began to evolve into one of the top wine tourism destinations in the country, if not the world.  

Whether by design or happy accident, Paso Robles has applied its old-fashioned agricultural work ethic to creating a way of life that now includes a mix of great food and wine (and beer and spirits), fun events and a strong respect for the past, present and future. 

Click the tabs below to learn more about the rich history of the area. 

More in-depth historical information can be found at the Paso Robles Historical Society and the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum

  1. Late Eighteenth Century: The Early Years

Paso Robles, California has a rich agricultural history beginning with the native Salinan Indians who inhabited the land thousands of years before the Spanish mission era, drawn by the region’s abundance of fertile soil and the healing benefits of its therapeutic hot springs. As far back as 1795, Paso Robles had been spoken of and written about as “California’s oldest watering place” - the place to go for springs and mud baths. Formal farming techniques, winemaking and cattle ranching were introduced in 1790 by the Spanish conquistadors and Franciscan missionaries (Mission-era wine fermentation vats can still be seen at nearby Mission San Miguel). 

  1. The Nineteenth Century: A Developing Region
  1. The Twentieth Century: Continued Growth & Prosperity
  1. Today: Growth, Progress and Looking to the Future