Background

Mission San Francisco de Asis (Mission Dolores)

Discover San Francisco's oldest building, a historic mission with a rich cultural heritage and tranquil gardens in the heart of the Mission District.

4.6

Mission San Francisco de Asis, also known as Mission Dolores, is the oldest intact building in San Francisco, a testament to the city's layered history. Founded in 1776 by Spanish Catholic missionaries, it stands as the sixth mission in the California chain. Visitors can explore the original adobe chapel, a basilica, a small museum, and a cemetery, each offering a glimpse into the mission's past and its impact on the region.

A brief summary to Mission San Francisco de Asis

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Mission Dolores Cemetery to see the final resting place of notable California pioneers and thousands of Ohlone, Miwok, and other First Californians.
  • Check the Mission's website for the mass schedule if you wish to attend a service. You do not have to pay the entrance fee to attend mass.
  • Explore the gardens, which feature native trees, shrubs, and flowers from the 1791 period, as well as an Ohlone Indian ethno-botanic garden.
  • Take a self-guided tour using the audio guide to learn about the Mission's history and significance.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From anywhere in San Francisco, the Mission is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the Muni Metro to the 16th St and Mission St stop. From there, walk west on 16th St for about three and a half blocks. The Mission will be on your left, at the corner of 16th and Dolores Streets. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.85 if using a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass, good for unlimited rides on Muni buses, trains, and streetcars, costs $5.70 and is available through the MuniMobile app.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis, Ubers, and Lyfts are readily available throughout San Francisco. A taxi from Union Square to the Mission will cost approximately $15, while a ride from Fisherman's Wharf will be around $20-$25. Ask your driver to take you to the corner of 16th and Dolores Streets. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on traffic and demand.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Mission District, or in reasonably close proximity, walking to the Mission is a great option. From the 16th and Mission BART station, head west on 16th Street for about three and a half blocks. The Mission will be on your left, at the corner of 16th and Dolores Streets. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Mission District as you approach this historic site.

Unlock the Best of Mission San Francisco de Asis

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mission San Francisco de Asis

Founded on October 9, 1776, Misión San Francisco de Asís, commonly known as Mission Dolores, holds the distinction of being the oldest intact building in San Francisco. The settlement was named after St. Francis of Assisi, but its popular name comes from a nearby creek called Arroyo de los Dolores, or "Creek of Sorrows". Founded by Frs Francisco Palóu and Pedro Benito Cambón, the mission played a significant role in the Spanish colonization of Alta California, aiming to integrate the native Ohlone people into the Spanish Empire and the Catholic faith. The Ohlone, along with members of the Miwok and Patwin tribes, provided the labor to construct the mission. The mission complex comprises several key structures. The original adobe chapel, completed in 1791, is the oldest structure in San Francisco. The Mission Dolores Basilica, constructed in 1918, stands in contrast to the simple adobe chapel. The cemetery is the final resting place for numerous Ohlone, Miwok, and other First Californians, as well as notable California pioneers. Visitors can explore the Mission's historical and religious significance through self-guided tours or docent-led tours for groups. The gardens have been restored with native trees, shrubs, and flowers from the 1791 period, including an Ohlone Indian ethno-botanic garden.

Popular Experiences near Mission San Francisco de Asis

Popular Hotels near Mission San Francisco de Asis

Select Currency