Mission Historical Park: A Tranquil Oasis with Historical Echoes
Discover Santa Barbara's rich history and natural beauty at Mission Historical Park, home to the A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden and remnants of the Mission's historic waterworks.
Nestled adjacent to the iconic Old Mission Santa Barbara, Mission Historical Park offers a serene escape with a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty. This 10-acre park, divided by Alameda Padre Serra, features the meticulously maintained A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden, boasting over 1,500 rose plants, alongside remnants of the Mission's historical waterworks. Explore the ruins of a grist mill, aqueduct, and tannery, offering glimpses into the past. With its sprawling grassy areas, bubbling fountain, and panoramic views of the city and mountains, the park provides a perfect setting for relaxation, picnics, and leisurely strolls. The park also hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the I Madonnari Italian street painting festival, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Mission Historical Park promises a memorable experience.
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 stunning chalk art creations.
- Explore the historical ruins, including the grist mill and aqueduct, to learn about the Mission's early water system.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the park's expansive grassy areas with views of the city and mountains.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden and immerse yourself in the beauty and fragrance of over 1,500 rose plants.
- Check the park's event calendar for festivals and community gatherings, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Getting There
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Walking
Mission Historical Park is directly across from the Old Mission Santa Barbara. From the Mission's entrance, cross Laguna Street at the crosswalk. The park entrance is immediately visible. The A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden is a short walk into the park.
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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 Mission, including Lines 1, 2, 3, 11, 12x and 20. From the bus stop, walk north towards the Old Mission Santa Barbara, then cross Laguna Street at the crosswalk to reach the park. A single ride fare is $1.75.
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Driving
If driving, approach the park from Laguna Street or Los Olivos Street. Limited free on-site parking is available in the Mission's parking lot off Los Olivos Street, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Street parking is also available but can be limited, especially during peak hours and events. Be mindful of parking restrictions. As an alternative, consider parking in downtown Santa Barbara and walking or taking public transportation to the park. Hourly parking is available at 115 E. Canon Perdido Street. The lot is operated by Santa Barbara Valet, Inc. through the paybyphone.com App.
Discover more about Mission Historical Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mission Creek Bridge
0.3 km
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Historic Riviera Streetcar Stop Shelter
0.6 km
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Trinity Episcopal Church
1.3 km
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Janssens-Orella-Birk Building
1.9 km
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Rafael González House
2.1 km
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Santa Barbara Old Japantown Plaque
2.1 km
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The Orena Adobe
2.3 km
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El Paseo "Street in Spain"
2.3 km
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Paseo de la Guerra
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De La Guerra Plaza
2.3 km
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Casa Covarrubias
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Andalucia Building
3.0 km
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Fess Parker Funk Zone
3.2 km
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Area 5.1 Winery
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Hastings Adobe
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mission Rose Garden
0.1 km
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Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786
0.2 km
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Rocky Nook Park
0.3 km
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Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
0.4 km
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Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden
1.1 km
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Kids World
1.2 km
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Alameda Park
1.2 km
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Our Lady of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church
1.4 km
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Arlington Theatre
1.6 km
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Franceschi Park
1.7 km
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The Granada Theatre
1.7 km
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Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens
1.7 km
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Santa Barbara Public Library
1.7 km
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Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara
1.8 km
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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
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Jane
1.6 km
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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
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State & Fig
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Mizza
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Petit Valentien
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Chase Restaurant and Lounge
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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
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Adornment
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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
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Anthropologie
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The Yes Store
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Barefoot Boutique
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Sands Boutique
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Marshalls
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Salt Boutique
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Creations Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
De la Vina lounge
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Sportsman Lounge
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The Good Lion
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Odessa Lounge
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Uptown Lounge
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The Pickle Room
2.1 km
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Mel's Lounge
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Elsies Tavern
2.4 km
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Press Room
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Dargan's
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The Bobcat Room
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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
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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
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The Red Piano
2.7 km
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EOS Lounge
2.7 km
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Sandbar
2.7 km
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Indochine
2.8 km
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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
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Emerson Lower Rooms
4.9 km
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The Tower Club, Oxnard
54.6 km
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Ruby's Cafe
55.8 km
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VidaLive!
56.0 km
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Spearmint Rhino Gentlemen's Club Oxnard
58.1 km
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