Old Mission Santa Barbara

Built in a commanding position on a hill overlooking the valley area, the Spanish mission is a long-standing Santa Barbara favorite, known for its rolling lawns and impressive rose garden, both open to the public year-round. Learn about brutal early colonization efforts on a tour, wander the well-kept grounds, and see the beautiful church nave. Depending on the day, it's possible to catch a performance by the longest-running choral singing group in California.

• Mission Santa Barbara is a must-visit for travelers interested in history and architecture.

• The Old Mission's extensive gift store, Serra Shop, sells all sorts of books, jewelry, and religious paraphernalia.

• Most of the Old Mission is accessible by wheelchair, and ADA restrooms are available.

The Old Mission is situated north of downtown Santa Barbara, about a 5- to 10-minute drive into town or 15 minutes by car to the Santa Barbara Airport. The nearest bus stop is at the corner of State and Pueblo streets, about a 15-minute walk away. It’s easiest to visit the mission by car or as part of a guided tour that includes transportation.

Mission Santa Barbara is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with the last entry at 4:15pm. Hour-long docent-led tours are held weekdays at 11am, Saturdays at 10:30am, and Sundays at 12:30pm. Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

One of the most interesting parts of the Old Mission is its on-site museum, full of art and artifacts. Highlights include a re-creation of an old-fashioned kitchen, a priest’s room (complete with an antique chess set), trade rooms featuring traditional weaving and blacksmithing tools, and the Chumash Room, dedicated to Native American artifacts.