Background

Old Adobe Mission: Scottsdale's Historic Heart

Discover Scottsdale's oldest church, a beautifully restored Spanish Colonial Mission in the heart of Old Town, offering history, culture, and tranquility.

4.8

The Old Adobe Mission, also known as Our Lady of Perpetual Help, is the oldest standing church in Scottsdale, Arizona. Built in the early 1930s by Mexican settlers, this beautifully restored Spanish Colonial Revival-style church offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Old Adobe Mission Scottsdale

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a quieter experience and fewer crowds.
  • Check the mission's website for information on special events and guided tours.
  • Take your camera to capture the stunning architecture and surrounding gardens.
  • Explore the surrounding Old Town Scottsdale for its arts, shopping, and entertainment.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old Adobe Mission is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions, hotels, and parking areas. From the Scottsdale Civic Center, head north on Brown Avenue for a few blocks. The mission will be on your left at 3817 N Brown Ave. Walking is free and allows you to explore the charming streets of Old Town.

  • Public Transport

    Valley Metro Bus Route 72 stops near the Old Adobe Mission at the Scottsdale Rd & Brown Ave stop. From there, walk south on Brown Ave for about 0.2 miles to reach the mission. A single ride on the bus costs $2.00.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach the Old Adobe Mission. Simply enter '3817 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale, AZ' as your destination. The cost from downtown Scottsdale is typically between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Parking

    Free parking is available in the parking structure behind the church and in the parking lot directly across the street. Free on-street parking is also available in the area. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist season and events. Consider arriving early to secure a spot or using a ride-sharing service.

Unlock the Best of Old Adobe Mission Scottsdale

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Old Adobe Mission Scottsdale

Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, the Old Adobe Mission stands as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Originally named Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH), the mission was hand-built by Mexican settlers in the late 1910s and completed in 1933. Robert T. Evans designed the church in a Spanish Colonial Revival style, drawing inspiration from structures in Sonora and New Mexico. More than 14,000 adobe bricks, each weighing 50 pounds and made from a mixture of native clay, silt, sand, straw, dung, and water, were used in the construction. Grandvell Shumaker created the blueprints, while Bérnabe Herrera, a tinsmith, crafted the mission's 15 stained-glass panes using salvaged glass from St. Augustine's Cathedral in Tucson. The women of the community played a vital role by organizing fundraising events and providing food and encouragement to the workers. In 1949, the mission became a parish, serving the community until 1956 when a larger church was built. In 2001, the City of Scottsdale officially placed the mission on its Register of Historic Buildings, and restoration efforts began. Today, the Old Adobe Mission is a protected historic site and a popular destination for tourists and those seeking a peaceful place for prayer and reflection. Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture, explore the serene gardens, and learn about the mission's history through guided tours.

Popular Experiences near Old Adobe Mission Scottsdale

Popular Hotels near Old Adobe Mission Scottsdale

Select Currency