Mission Historical Park: A Step Back in Time
Explore Santa Barbara's Mission Historical Park: Discover historic ruins, a stunning rose garden, and serene landscapes in this vibrant park adjacent to the iconic Old Mission.
Nestled adjacent to the iconic Old Mission Santa Barbara, Mission Historical Park offers a serene escape and a glimpse into the region's rich history. This 10-acre park, divided by Alameda Padre Serra, features remnants of the Mission's original waterworks, including a reservoir, aqueduct, and grist mill, all constructed by Chumash laborers. Stroll through the A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden, boasting over 1,500 rose plants, or explore the historic olive grove. With its expansive grassy areas, the park is perfect for picnics and relaxation, while also hosting community events like the I Madonnari Italian street painting festival. The surrounding neighborhood showcases authentic Spanish colonial architecture, enhancing the park's historical ambiance and making it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Mission Historical Park
- Laguna St &, E Los Olivos St, Santa Barbara, Lower Riviera, CA, 93103, US
- +1805-897-1941
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the annual I Madonnari Italian street painting festival over Memorial Day weekend to witness incredible chalk art.
- Explore the park's ruins to discover remnants of the Mission's original waterworks and learn about early Chumash and Spanish engineering.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the expansive grassy areas with views of the mountains and city.
- Take a stroll through the A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden to admire the diverse collection of roses and enjoy the fragrant atmosphere.
- Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Old Mission Santa Barbara for a comprehensive historical experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Old Mission Santa Barbara, simply cross the street (Alameda Padre Serra) to enter Mission Historical Park. The park is directly adjacent to the Mission and easily accessible on foot. Once across Alameda Padre Serra, you'll find yourself in the southern section of the park, home to the A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden and expansive grassy areas.
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Public Transport
Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve the area. Check the MTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Several bus lines stop near the Old Mission, from which you can easily walk across Alameda Padre Serra to reach Mission Historical Park. A single ride fare is around $1.75.
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Driving
If driving, approach the area via Mission Ridge Road or Alameda Padre Serra. Limited free on-site parking is available at the Mission, and street parking can be found in the surrounding neighborhood. Be aware that parking can be competitive, especially during peak tourist season and events. Check street signs for any parking restrictions. If parking on the street, be prepared to walk a short distance to the park. Parking near the Mission Historical Park is free, but limited. There are also paid parking lots in downtown Santa Barbara, which is about a 15-20 minute walk to the park. Paid parking in downtown Santa Barbara costs approximately $3.50 per hour, with a daily maximum of $20.
Discover more about Mission Historical Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mission Creek Bridge
0.3 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
0.6 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
1.3 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.
Janssens-Orella-Birk Building
1.9 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.
Rafael González House
2.1 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
2.1 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
2.3 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"
2.3 km
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Paseo de la Guerra
2.3 km
Explore the historic Paseo de la Guerra in Santa Barbara, a landmark that embodies the rich cultural heritage of California's coastal history.
De La Guerra Plaza
2.3 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.
Casa Covarrubias
2.3 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.
Andalucia Building
3.0 km
Discover the Andalucia Building in Santa Barbara: A unique Moorish-style landmark on State Street, blending history, architecture, and downtown charm for an unforgettable experience.
Fess Parker Funk Zone
3.2 km
Experience the acclaimed wines of Fess Parker Winery in the heart of Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, a vibrant arts district offering a modern tasting experience and a taste of local wine heritage.
Area 5.1 Winery
3.2 km
Discover unconventional wine blends in a quirky, alien-themed tasting room located in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, offering an out-of-this-world experience with live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Hastings Adobe
3.3 km
Discover the Hastings Adobe in Santa Barbara, a historic landmark built in 1854, blending New England charm with California history, offering a glimpse into the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mission Rose Garden
0.1 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of the Mission Rose Garden in Santa Barbara, a floral paradise showcasing over 1,500 stunning rose varieties.
Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786
0.2 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Old Mission Santa Barbara, the 'Queen of the Missions' in California.
Rocky Nook Park
0.3 km
Explore the serene landscapes and hiking trails of Rocky Nook Park, a hidden gem in Santa Barbara perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
0.4 km
Discover the rich natural history of California at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, an engaging destination for all ages.
Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden
1.1 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
1.2 km
Experience the joy of play at Kids World in Santa Barbara, a delightful playground designed for family fun and adventure.
Alameda Park
1.2 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
1.4 km
Discover Santa Barbara's historic Our Lady of Sorrows Church, a beautiful landmark with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a rich spiritual heritage.
Arlington Theatre
1.6 km
Discover the enchanting Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara, where performing arts, cocktails, and cinematic magic come to life.
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.
The Granada Theatre
1.7 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
1.7 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
1.7 km
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Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara
1.8 km
Explore the historical Superior Court of California in Santa Barbara, a stunning architectural gem showcasing the region's rich heritage.
Santa Barbara Museum Of Art
1.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Garrett's Old Fashioned Restaurant
0.8 km
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Crocodile Restaurant & Bar
1.2 km
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Opal
1.5 km
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Ca' Dario Santa Barbara
1.5 km
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Jane
1.6 km
Experience the best of Californian cuisine at Jane in Santa Barbara – where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Louie's California Bistro
1.6 km
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bouchon Santa Barbara
1.6 km
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Olio e Limone Ristorante
1.7 km
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Sama Sama Kitchen
1.7 km
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Benchmark Eatery
1.8 km
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milk & honey
1.8 km
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State & Fig
1.8 km
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Mizza
1.8 km
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Petit Valentien
1.9 km
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Chase Restaurant and Lounge
2.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Serra Shop
0.2 km
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Westward General
1.2 km
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Folly
1.5 km
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Sirena
1.5 km
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Adornment
1.6 km
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Paradise Found
1.7 km
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Santa Barbara Museum of Art Store
1.8 km
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Lewis & Clark
1.8 km
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Anthropologie
1.8 km
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The Yes Store
1.9 km
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Barefoot Boutique
2.1 km
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Sands Boutique
2.1 km
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Marshalls
2.2 km
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Salt Boutique
2.2 km
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Creations Boutique
2.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
De la Vina lounge
1.2 km
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Sportsman Lounge
1.6 km
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The Good Lion
1.7 km
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Odessa Lounge
1.8 km
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Uptown Lounge
1.9 km
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The Pickle Room
2.1 km
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Mel's Lounge
2.2 km
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Elsies Tavern
2.4 km
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Press Room
2.5 km
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Dargan's
2.5 km
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The Bobcat Room
2.5 km
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Old Kings Road
2.7 km
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Dusk Bar
2.7 km
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O'Malleys Bar
2.7 km
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Unbearable Skee Lodge
2.8 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
SOhO Restaurant & Music Club
1.7 km
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Wildcat Lounge
2.5 km
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La Pachanga
2.7 km
Experience the electrifying atmosphere at La Pachanga, Santa Barbara's premier night club featuring vibrant music, delicious drinks, and unforgettable dance nights.
The Red Piano
2.7 km
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EOS Lounge
2.7 km
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Sandbar
2.7 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Sandbar, a must-visit spot in Santa Barbara for food lovers and partygoers alike.
Indochine
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Barbara at Indochine, a lively night club offering eclectic music and a welcoming atmosphere.
The vip
2.9 km
Experience the heartbeat of Santa Barbara's nightlife at The VIP, where unforgettable nights and vibrant energy await.
Backstage Santa Barbara
2.9 km
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MLounge
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Barbara at MLounge, where unique cocktails and a stylish atmosphere await you.
Emerson Lower Rooms
4.9 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Emerson Lower Rooms in Montecito, California, where music and camaraderie create unforgettable memories.
The Tower Club, Oxnard
54.6 km
Experience the elegance of The Tower Club in Oxnard, where stunning views, exquisite cocktails, and vibrant nightlife await.
Ruby's Cafe
55.8 km
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VidaLive!
56.0 km
Discover the lively nightlife at VidaLive! in Oxnard, California, where vibrant drinks and a friendly atmosphere await.
Spearmint Rhino Gentlemen's Club Oxnard
58.1 km
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