Old Mission Santa Barbara: Queen of the Missions
Discover California's colonial past at the 'Queen of the Missions,' a historic landmark with stunning architecture, gardens, and cultural treasures.
Founded in 1786 by Spanish Franciscans, Old Mission Santa Barbara, known as the 'Queen of the Missions,' is a historic landmark offering a glimpse into California's colonial past. Explore its beautiful church, museum, gardens, and cemetery, all while enjoying stunning views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.
A brief summary to Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786
- 2201 Laguna St, Santa Barbara, Upper East, California, 93105, US
- +1805-682-4713
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the Mission's website for information on weekend Masses, weddings, and funerals, as the church and cemetery may be closed to tours during these times.
- Visit the A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden across the street from the Mission to see over 1,500 rose plants, especially beautiful in the spring.
- Arrive early to secure parking, as the Mission's parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking to do on the tour route, and no food or drinks are allowed inside the Mission.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Santa Barbara, the Mission is approximately a 1.5-mile walk uphill. Head north on State Street, then turn left onto Los Olivos Street. Continue uphill for about five blocks until you reach the Mission. Note that the Mission is on top of a hill, so it's an uphill walk from most locations. Consider the elevation gain if walking. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
From downtown Santa Barbara, take Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) bus line 6 or 11. Get off at the Pueblo Street stop and walk back one block, then walk five blocks uphill on Los Olivos Street to reach the Mission. A single ride on the MTD costs $1.75.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From downtown Santa Barbara, a taxi or ride-share to the Mission will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $12-$18 for a one-way trip.
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Driving
The Mission is located at 2201 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105. From Highway 101, take the Mission Street exit and head north. Turn right onto Laguna Street. The Mission will be on your left. Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Mission's front parking lot off Los Olivos Street. Parking operates from 7am to 7pm.
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Old Mission Santa Barbara
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