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Old Mission Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara

4.4

#1 of 18 in Parks in Santa Barbara

Architectural Building Historic Site

A Spanish mission founded in 1786, Old Mission Santa Barbara provides an insight into the colonization of southern California. Franciscan friars created the mission so they could convert the indigenous Chumash tribe to Catholicism. Embark on self-guided tour through the sacred garden, historical cemetery, church, and museum, or take one of the docent-led tours. Don't miss the fountain, aqueduct, and lavandaria in the Mission's front yard, all original fixtures built by the Chumash. The museum is home to a Chumash prayer board, the first written Chumash ever attempted. See Old Mission Santa Barbara and all Santa Barbara has to offer by arranging your trip with our Santa Barbara travel itinerary maker.

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2,103 reviews

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4.5

happy_to_travel_4752

I've visited several of the California missions and this one is sited so well with views all around. Just nice to be there. Good location history lesson. more »
Jean R

Make plans to visit here when it is open It closes at 5pm. I would imagine the history is good to read about. The building has been well preserved on the exterior. There is a park directly across the ... more »
Lindsay M

We went to visit the Mission after-hours. So, we did not go inside. The outside is beautiful. We looked up some history on it while we were there (we knew nothing about it) Compared an old picture fro... more »

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Stephen McKenry

Of all the California Missions, Mission Santa Barbara certainly is one of the best preserved and features the most detailed and best curated museum. It doesn't hurt that it's the only Mission still operating as a monetary. Be sure to spend some time in the Adobe museum towards the end of the tour exploring the artifacts. Also, when walking through the graveyard pay attention to the plaques noting American Indian history.

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Andrew Dickinson

This was just the right place to get out and stretch my legs on a beautiful Sunday as we drove up the California coast. My two teenagers and I had a nice time looking around and taking in the sites of this historic facility. Mass was happening when we arrived so we did not make it inside the church itself but that was okay. Cannot remember exact cost but remember it being minimal. Beautiful stop worth a visit.

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Robbie Backpacking

The Queen of the Missions got it's name "Queen" because it was the only Spanish mission to be built with two bells. The church is a quick stop, but none-the-less quite beautiful, especially the elegantly designed chapel.

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Fernando Islas

it's a beautiful mission and very easy to get to. there is a little patch of grass in the front where many locals and travelers tend to gather.

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Anton Radalov

A bit boring but its small so you would not get really bored. Although its a nice, old place

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Old Mission Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara

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happy_to_travel_4752

Jean R

Lindsay M

Stephen McKenry

Andrew Dickinson

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Fernando Islas

Anton Radalov

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