Mission Creek Bridge: A Historic Landmark
Discover the historic Mission Creek Bridge in Santa Barbara, a picturesque landmark connecting the city's rich past with its vibrant present, nestled near iconic cultural and natural attractions.
The Mission Creek Bridge, a picturesque stone arch bridge built in 1891, stands as a testament to Santa Barbara's rich history and enduring charm. Located on Mission Canyon Road, a stone's throw from the Old Mission and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, the bridge offers a glimpse into the city's past. Constructed of locally quarried sandstone, it replaced an earlier wooden structure and quickly became a beloved landmark. The bridge has gracefully withstood the test of time, including the devastating 1925 earthquake, and continues to serve as a vital link for both residents and visitors exploring the area's natural and cultural attractions. Today, it is a City Landmark and eligible for the National Historic Registry, a cherished piece of Santa Barbara's heritage.
A brief summary to Mission Creek Bridge
- 610 Mission Canyon Rd, Santa Barbara, Upper East, California, 93105, US
Local tips
- Visit nearby Rocky Nook Park for a picnic and short hike after seeing the bridge.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Santa Barbara Mission and the Natural History Museum for a full day of exploration.
- Look for the 'Dover & Woods 1891' inscription on the keystone on the east side of the bridge.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Old Mission Santa Barbara (2201 Laguna St), walk north on Laguna Street. Turn right onto Los Olivos Street, then left onto Mission Canyon Road. Continue a short distance; the Mission Creek Bridge will be on your right, about a 5-minute walk. This is a pleasant stroll through a historic neighborhood.
-
Public Transport
From downtown Santa Barbara, take MTD Line 11 towards the Santa Barbara Mission. Get off at the bus stop near the intersection of Mission Canyon Road and Foothill Road. From there, walk south on Mission Canyon Road for a few minutes. The Mission Creek Bridge will be on your left. A single ride fare is $1.75.
-
Driving
From Highway 101, take the Mission Street exit and head towards the mountains. Turn left onto Chapala Street, then right onto Los Olivos Street. Continue onto Mission Canyon Road. The Mission Creek Bridge will be on your right. Limited street parking is available near the bridge. Be mindful of parking restrictions. Parking is free.
Discover more about Mission Creek Bridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mission Creek Bridge
0.0 km
Discover the historic Mission Creek Bridge in Santa Barbara, a picturesque landmark connecting the city's rich past with its vibrant present, nestled near iconic cultural and natural attractions.
Historic Riviera Streetcar Stop Shelter
0.7 km
Step back in time at Santa Barbara's Historic Riviera Streetcar Stop Shelter, a beautifully preserved landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's early transit history.
Trinity Episcopal Church
1.6 km
Discover a Santa Barbara landmark: Trinity Episcopal Church, a historic sanctuary with stunning Gothic architecture, vibrant community programs, and a welcoming spirit for all.
Santa Barbara County Landmarks
1.9 km
Discover Santa Barbara County's historic landmarks, where rich heritage meets stunning architecture and beautiful landscapes.
Janssens-Orella-Birk Building
2.2 km
Explore the Janssens-Orella-Birk Building in Santa Barbara, a historic landmark showcasing enchanting Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a captivating glimpse into the city's past.
Santa Barbara Masonic Temple, Lodge 192 F&AM
2.3 km
Explore the Santa Barbara Masonic Temple, a historic landmark rich in fraternal heritage and community spirit in the heart of California's coastal charm.
Rafael González House
2.4 km
Explore the historical charm of Rafael González House, a stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture in Santa Barbara's Laguna neighborhood.
Santa Barbara Old Japantown Plaque
2.4 km
Explore Santa Barbara's rich cultural tapestry at the Old Japantown Plaque, honoring the legacy of the Japanese community that once thrived in this historic city.
The Orena Adobe
2.6 km
Discover the Orena Adobe in Santa Barbara: a historic landmark showcasing Spanish Colonial heritage and the blending of cultures in California's captivating past.
El Paseo "Street in Spain"
2.6 km
Discover the charm and history of El Paseo Street in Santa Barbara, Spain, where vibrant culture meets stunning architecture for an unforgettable experience.
Paseo de la Guerra
2.6 km
Explore the historic Paseo de la Guerra in Santa Barbara, a landmark that embodies the rich cultural heritage of California's coastal history.
Casa Covarrubias
2.6 km
Step back in time at Casa Covarrubias, a beautifully preserved 1817 adobe offering a glimpse into Santa Barbara's rich history and the lives of its prominent early families.
De La Guerra Plaza
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara at De la Guerra Plaza, a historic public square surrounded by iconic architecture, where community and culture come alive.
Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk
2.7 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Santa Barbara Historic Landmark, a treasured symbol of the city’s rich heritage.
Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours
3.0 km
Discover the scenic beauty and exquisite wines of Santa Barbara with guided tours through California's charming wine country.
Unmissable attractions to see
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
0.2 km
Discover the rich natural history of California at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, an engaging destination for all ages.
Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786
0.3 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Old Mission Santa Barbara, the 'Queen of the Missions' in California.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
0.3 km
Explore the beauty and history of Old Mission Santa Barbara, a stunning landmark and museum showcasing California's rich cultural heritage.
Mission Historical Park
0.3 km
Explore the serene Mission Historical Park in Santa Barbara, where nature meets history in a captivating landscape.
Mission Rose Garden
0.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of the Mission Rose Garden in Santa Barbara, a floral paradise showcasing over 1,500 stunning rose varieties.
Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden
1.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, a lush oasis in Santa Barbara perfect for relaxation, picnics, and romantic strolls.
Kids World
1.5 km
Experience the joy of play at Kids World in Santa Barbara, a delightful playground designed for family fun and adventure.
Alameda Park
1.5 km
Experience the beauty of Alameda Park in Santa Barbara, where lush landscapes, recreational facilities, and a family-friendly environment await every visitor.
Our Lady of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church
1.7 km
Discover Santa Barbara's historic Our Lady of Sorrows Church, a beautiful landmark with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a rich spiritual heritage.
Franceschi Park
1.7 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning views at Franceschi Park, a must-visit destination in Santa Barbara's beautiful Riviera neighborhood.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
1.8 km
Discover the beauty of California's native plants at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, a serene escape filled with lush landscapes and historical charm.
Arlington Theatre
1.9 km
Discover the enchanting Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara, where performing arts, cocktails, and cinematic magic come to life.
The Granada Theatre
2.0 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage and vibrant performances at The Granada Theatre, a historic landmark in Santa Barbara, California.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens
2.0 km
Discover the stunning gardens of Santa Barbara County Courthouse, a historical landmark blending nature and culture in California's beautiful coastal city.
Santa Barbara Public Library
2.0 km
Discover the Santa Barbara Public Library, where books, art, and community come together in a beautiful setting in downtown Santa Barbara.
Essential places to dine
Garrett's Old Fashioned Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience classic American dining at Garrett's Old Fashioned Restaurant in Santa Barbara—where every meal is a delicious tradition.
Crocodile Restaurant & Bar
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of California at Crocodile Restaurant & Bar in Santa Barbara - where great food meets a lively atmosphere.
Opal
1.8 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Opal in Santa Barbara – where vibrant flavors meet elegant dining.
Ca' Dario Santa Barbara
1.8 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ca' Dario in Santa Barbara – where each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Jane
1.9 km
Experience the best of Californian cuisine at Jane in Santa Barbara – where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Louie's California Bistro
1.9 km
Discover Louie's California Bistro: A dog-friendly haven offering delectable Californian cuisine in the heart of Santa Barbara.
bouchon Santa Barbara
1.9 km
Discover exquisite Californian cuisine at Bouchon Santa Barbara - where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Olio e Limone Ristorante
2.0 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Olio e Limone Ristorante in Santa Barbara, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Sama Sama Kitchen
2.0 km
Discover authentic Southeast Asian cuisine in the heart of Santa Barbara at Sama Sama Kitchen - where every bite tells a story.
Benchmark Eatery
2.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Benchmark Eatery in Santa Barbara—where gourmet burgers meet fresh seafood in a vibrant setting.
State & Fig
2.1 km
Experience authentic Californian cuisine at State & Fig, where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry in Santa Barbara's vibrant downtown.
milk & honey
2.1 km
Savor authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant cocktails at milk & honey in downtown Santa Barbara - A culinary gem for every food lover.
Mizza
2.1 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Mizza in Santa Barbara - where every bite feels like a trip to Italy.
Petit Valentien
2.2 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Petit Valentien in Santa Barbara – where every dish tells a story of culinary artistry and passion.
Chase Restaurant and Lounge
2.3 km
Experience exquisite Italian-American cuisine at Chase Restaurant and Lounge in Santa Barbara's vibrant downtown area.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Serra Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and locally crafted treasures at Serra Shop, a charming gift shop in Santa Barbara, California.
Westward General
1.2 km
Explore Westward General, your go-to vintage clothing store in Santa Barbara offering unique apparel and delightful home goods.
Folly
1.8 km
Explore Folly Gift Shop in Santa Barbara for unique, locally crafted treasures and gifts that capture the essence of California's vibrant culture.
Sirena
1.8 km
Explore the finest in women's fashion at Sirena, a stylish boutique in the heart of Santa Barbara, California.
Adornment
1.9 km
Discover unique fashion accessories at Adornment, a chic boutique in Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown, perfect for elevating your style.
Paradise Found
2.0 km
Explore Santa Barbara's Paradise Found - a unique gift shop and bookstore offering local art and one-of-a-kind treasures for every traveler.
Santa Barbara Museum of Art Store
2.1 km
Explore unique gifts and art-inspired treasures at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art Store, a hub of creativity in California's coastal paradise.
Lewis & Clark
2.1 km
Explore the charm of Santa Barbara with unique gifts and handcrafted jewelry at Lewis & Clark, the ultimate destination for memorable souvenirs.
Anthropologie
2.1 km
Explore Anthropologie in Santa Barbara for an eclectic mix of women's fashion, beauty, and home decor that inspires creativity and individuality.
The Yes Store
2.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at The Yes Store in Santa Barbara, a treasure trove for tourists seeking memorable souvenirs.
Barefoot Boutique
2.4 km
Explore Barefoot Boutique: Your go-to destination for unique clothing and accessories in the heart of Santa Barbara's vibrant shopping scene.
Sands Boutique
2.4 km
Discover unique fashion at Sands Boutique in Santa Barbara, featuring stylish women's and men's clothing along with trendy swimwear.
Marshalls
2.5 km
Experience unbeatable deals on fashion and essentials at Marshalls Santa Barbara, where every visit is a treasure hunt for unique finds.
Salt Boutique
2.5 km
Explore the elegance of Salt Boutique, Santa Barbara's premier destination for women's fashion and unique local styles.
Creations Boutique
2.6 km
Discover the essence of Santa Barbara fashion at Creations Boutique, your go-to destination for stylish women's clothing and accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
De la Vina lounge
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at De la Vina Lounge in Santa Barbara, where handcrafted drinks meet a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Uptown Lounge
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at Uptown Lounge, Santa Barbara's hidden gem for pizza and drinks.
Sportsman Lounge
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and friendly vibes at Sportsman Lounge, a top bar destination in the heart of Santa Barbara.
The Good Lion
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Santa Barbara at The Good Lion, where expertly crafted drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Odessa Lounge
2.1 km
Discover a serene wine haven at Odessa Lounge in Santa Barbara, where exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
The Pickle Room
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Pickle Room - Santa Barbara's premier cocktail bar and grill that delights with innovative drinks and delicious food.
Mel's Lounge
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Mel's Lounge, a popular dive bar in Santa Barbara, CA.
Press Room
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Press Room, a charming bar in Santa Barbara offering generous pours and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Elsies Tavern
2.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Elsies Tavern, Santa Barbara's go-to pub for drinks, food, and friendly gatherings in a vibrant setting.
Dargan's
2.8 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Dargan's, a lively pub in Santa Barbara offering delicious cuisine and live entertainment.
The Bobcat Room
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant retro charm of The Bobcat Room in Santa Barbara, where unique cocktails and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Old Kings Road
3.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful offerings of Old Kings Road, a beloved pub in Santa Barbara perfect for relaxation and local flavor.
Dusk Bar
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Barbara at Dusk Bar, where creative cocktails and a relaxing atmosphere await every visitor.
O'Malleys Bar
3.0 km
Discover O'Malleys Bar in Santa Barbara, a vibrant cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Unbearable Skee Lodge
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Unbearable Skee Lodge, where craft beer meets fun arcade games in Santa Barbara's lively bar scene.
