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. Our Santa Barbara day trip planner makes visiting Old Mission Santa Barbara and other Santa Barbara attractions simple, and helps you make a travel plan personal to you.
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Old Mission Santa Barbara reviews
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Access is easy, and parking in an adjacent lot is free. We were happy to see that Mission Santa Barbara received a tasteful new coat of paint since the last time we visited. The mission building...
Access is easy, and parking in an adjacent lot is free. We were happy to see that Mission Santa Barbara received a tasteful new coat of paint since the last time we visited. The mission building... more »
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Stopped here on a whim after looking up things to do in Santa Barbara and was not disappointed. Wasn’t sure what to expect but the place was beautiful. Great history and learned a lot on the tour.
Stopped here on a whim after looking up things to do in Santa Barbara and was not disappointed. Wasn’t sure what to expect but the place was beautiful. Great history and learned a lot on the tour. more »
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Beautiful and historical, this Spanish Catholic Mission church is one of 21 along the Pacific coast. Activities include attending midnight or regular Mass, the one of a kind annual chalk art festival, visiting the gift shop, going on the guided inside tour (for a small fee), walking through the rose gardens, or relaxing on the lawn greens. You will encounter peaceful, serene surroundings for meditation, prayer or relaxation. Also worth noting are the architecture and history that have been influenced by the regions Native American Indian Chumash.
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My wife and I visited the yearly Memorial day event - chalk art. The artwork and artists are incredible. Plenty of places to eat ,or buy souvenirs. The weather was perfect. Parking is at a definite premium. Beautiful location to visit to tour or have lunch on the lawn out front. Exit the 101 at Mission street and drive towards the hills. Enjoy!
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