Explore the Timeless Beauty of Carmel Mission Basilica Museum
Experience the rich history and architectural beauty of Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, a key landmark in California's mission era.
The Carmel Mission Basilica Museum is a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural beauty of California's early missions. Nestled in the charming town of Carmel-By-The-Sea, this historic site invites visitors to explore its stunning gardens, intricate artwork, and captivating exhibits that tell the story of California's mission era.
A brief summary to Carmel Mission Basilica Museum
- 3080 Rio Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Carmel Point, California, 93921, US
- +1831-624-1271
- Visit website
- Wednesday 10 am-3:45 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3:45 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:45 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:45 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-4:45 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to enjoy a quieter experience and avoid crowds.
- Check the museum's website for special events or guided tours that provide deeper insights.
- Take time to explore the surrounding gardens, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Consider bringing a camera; the architecture and garden views are stunning.
- Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits and peaceful environment.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in Big Sur and want to get to the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum, start by heading north towards the Big Sur River Inn. From there, continue walking along the scenic Highway 1 North for approximately 26 miles. You will pass by stunning coastal views and several landmarks along the way. After about 30 minutes of walking, you will reach Carmel-By-The-Sea. Once in Carmel, make a left on Rio Road and continue for about 0.5 miles. The museum will be on your right at 3080 Rio Rd.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from a local shop in Big Sur. Once you have your bike, head north on Highway 1. The ride is around 26 miles and features beautiful coastal scenery. After about an hour of biking, you will arrive in Carmel-By-The-Sea. When you reach the town, take a left on Rio Road, and after approximately 0.5 miles, you will see the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum on your right at 3080 Rio Rd.
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Public Transport
To reach the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum using public transport, take the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus from Big Sur to Carmel-By-The-Sea. You can catch the MST Line 22 from the nearest stop in Big Sur. The journey will take approximately 1 hour. Once you arrive in Carmel, disembark at the nearest bus stop and walk east on Rio Road for about 10 minutes. The museum will be located at 3080 Rio Rd on your left.
Discover more about Carmel Mission Basilica Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Carmel Sea Cradle
0.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Carmel Sea Cradle, your perfect coastal getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Butterfly House
1.2 km
Explore the Butterfly House in Carmel-By-The-Sea: a historical landmark showcasing stunning architecture and nature's beauty in California.
La Playa Hotel
1.2 km
Experience coastal luxury at La Playa Hotel in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where stunning ocean views and exceptional service await every traveler.
Carmel Color House
1.3 km
Explore the artistic charm of Carmel Color House - a vibrant furniture store in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where coastal elegance meets unique design.
Carmel Green Lantern Inn
1.3 km
Experience tranquility and charm at Carmel Green Lantern Inn, a cozy retreat in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Carmel Visitor Center (Suite 219A)
1.3 km
Explore Carmel-By-The-Sea with the Carmel Visitor Center: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich culture, and local insights.
Cypress Inn
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Cypress Inn in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where comfort meets elegance in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for travelers.
Carmel
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting charm of Carmel-By-The-Sea, where art, nature, and culture come together along California's stunning coastline.
Carmel Jewelry Studio-Richard
1.3 km
Explore the artistry of handcrafted jewelry at Carmel Jewelry Studio, where every piece reflects the beauty of Carmel-By-The-Sea's coastal charm.
Carmel Plaza
1.3 km
Explore Carmel Plaza in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a unique shopping experience, gourmet dining, and breathtaking coastal views.
Doud Arcade
1.4 km
Discover Doud Arcade in Carmel-By-The-Sea: A unique shopping destination bursting with local artistry and coastal charm.
WWI Memorial Bell Tower
1.4 km
Explore the WWI Memorial Bell Tower in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a historical landmark honoring the legacy of soldiers with serene beauty and rich architecture.
Carmel Bay Company
1.4 km
Explore Carmel Bay Company for exquisite home decor and unique furnishings in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
The court of the Golden bourgh
1.4 km
Discover the stunning architecture and rich history of the Court of the Golden Bourgh, a must-visit historical landmark in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Carmel Classics
1.4 km
Explore Carmel Classics in Carmel-By-The-Sea for unique fashion that captures the coastal charm of California's artistic community.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mission Trail Park
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and natural beauty of Mission Trail Park in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a serene escape into California's coastal wilderness.
Carmel Beach Walk
0.9 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty and tranquility of Carmel Beach Walk in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a perfect escape for nature lovers and beachgoers.
Carmel River State Beach
0.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Carmel River State Beach, a must-visit destination in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Scenic Rd
0.9 km
Experience California's Scenic Road, where breathtaking coastal views and lush landscapes create unforgettable journeys.
Sunset Center
1.0 km
Discover the Sunset Center in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a vibrant arts venue offering an array of performances and events in a stunning coastal setting.
Clinton Walker House - Frank Lloyd Wright
1.1 km
Explore the Clinton Walker House, a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece nestled along the stunning coast of Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.
Steven Whyte Sculptor - Gallery & Studio
1.1 km
Discover the captivating artistry of Steven Whyte at his sculptor gallery and studio in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a true haven for art enthusiasts.
Robinson Jeffers Tor House Foundation
1.1 km
Discover the poetic beauty of Robinson Jeffers' Tor House Foundation, a literary landmark in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, surrounded by breathtaking coastal views.
Golden Bough Playhouse
1.1 km
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Village of Fae
1.1 km
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Carmel Beach
1.2 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Carmel Beach, a serene coastal haven perfect for relaxation, exploration, and breathtaking sunsets.
Carmel by the sea
1.2 km
Discover the enchanting charm of Carmel by the Sea, where stunning beaches meet vibrant art and gourmet dining in a picturesque coastal town.
Winfield Gallery
1.3 km
Explore Winfield Gallery in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a captivating collection of contemporary art from talented local and national artists.
Church of the Wayfarer
1.3 km
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Piccadilly Park
1.4 km
Experience the serene charm of Piccadilly Park in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a perfect blend of nature and tranquility for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Mission Ranch Restaurant
0.3 km
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SteakCraft
1.1 km
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From Scratch Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at From Scratch Restaurant in Carmel-By-The-Sea—where every meal is made with love and fresh ingredients.
SUR at The Barnyard
1.1 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea at SUR at The Barnyard, where seasonal flavors meet rustic charm.
Rio Grill
1.1 km
Experience culinary artistry at Rio Grill in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where exquisite steaks meet a charming coastal atmosphere.
Allegro Pizzeria
1.1 km
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Robata Grill & Sake Bar
1.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Robata Grill & Sake Bar in Carmel-By-The-Sea; where quality meets tradition.
Aabha Indian Cuisine
1.1 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at Aabha Indian Cuisine in Carmel-By-The-Sea - where every dish tells a story.
The Crossroads BBQ
1.2 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at The Crossroads BBQ in Carmel-By-The-Sea – a haven for meat lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Treehouse Café
1.2 km
Discover the flavors of Greece, Italy, and Thailand at Treehouse Café in Carmel-By-The-Sea - A culinary delight awaits!
Seventh & Dolores
1.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Seventh & Dolores - where premium steaks meet charming coastal elegance in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
La Bicyclette Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience the charm of European dining at La Bicyclette Restaurant, where French and Italian flavors come together in a delightful ambiance.
Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro
1.3 km
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Anton & Michel Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience exquisite continental cuisine at Anton & Michel Restaurant in charming Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Little Napoli
1.3 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Little Napoli in Carmel-By-The-Sea – where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Crossroads Carmel
1.0 km
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The Hearth Shop
1.1 km
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The Barnyard Shopping Village
1.1 km
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Pieces of Heaven
1.1 km
Experience the bliss of artisanal chocolates, candies, and ice creams at Pieces of Heaven in charming Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Big Sur Canna+Botanicals
1.2 km
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Wittpenn's Antiques
1.2 km
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Girl Boy Girl
1.2 km
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Mole Hole
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting Mole Hole in Carmel-By-The-Sea for unique gifts and local treasures that embody the coastal charm and artistic spirit of this beautiful town.
The Nut Hut
1.3 km
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Anthropologie
1.3 km
Discover the allure of Anthropologie in Carmel-By-The-Sea—where fashion meets artistry in a charming coastal setting.
Ms. Fabulous
1.3 km
Explore Ms. Fabulous: A women's clothing boutique in Carmel-By-The-Sea, offering a curated selection of stylish attire and accessories in a charming atmosphere.
Sylvie Unique Boutique
1.3 km
Explore the charm of Sylvie Unique Boutique, a must-visit women's clothing store in Carmel-By-The-Sea, offering unique fashion and accessories.
Big Little Boxes
1.3 km
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Carmel Honey Company - Carmel Plaza
1.3 km
Explore the charming Carmel Honey Company for artisanal honey and unique gifts in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Somewhere in Carmel
1.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
O'CALLAGHAN'S IRISH PUB
1.1 km
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Bud's at La Playa
1.2 km
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Bar Napoli
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy at Bar Napoli, a charming bar and wine destination in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
1.3 km
Explore Wrath Wines in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a memorable wine tasting experience surrounded by breathtaking coastal views.
Barmel
1.3 km
Experience the cozy charm and handcrafted cocktails at Barmel, the perfect bar for relaxation in beautiful Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Mulligan Public House
1.4 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mulligan Public House, Carmel-By-The-Sea's premier bar for craft beers and traditional pub fare.
Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
1.4 km
Discover the exquisite wines and beautiful landscapes at Galante Vineyards in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a true treasure of California's wine country.
Sade's Cocktails
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Sade's Cocktails, where exceptional mixology meets a cozy coastal ambiance.
Sunset Lounge
4.8 km
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Alfredo's Cantina
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Britannia Arms
6.7 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
6.7 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Compact Disco
6.7 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Compact Disco, where classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
7.0 km
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Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
7.0 km
Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.
