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Mission Basilica San Buenaventura: A Journey Through Time

Discover California's rich history at Mission Basilica San Buenaventura, a beautifully preserved landmark in downtown Ventura. Est. 1782.

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Founded in 1782 by Father Junípero Serra, Mission Basilica San Buenaventura stands as a testament to California's rich history. As the ninth of the 21 California missions and the last personally established by Serra, it offers a glimpse into the past with its historic church, museum, and serene gardens.

A brief summary to Mission Basilica San Buenaventura 1782

  • Monday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 6:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the museum to see Chumash artifacts and learn about the mission's history.
  • Wander through the gardens and admire the stone fountain and grotto.
  • Check out the two Norfolk Island Pines, planted in the 1880s, designated as California's Millenium Landmark Trees.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Main Street in downtown Ventura, the Mission Basilica is easily accessible on foot. Head east on Main Street, and you'll find the Mission located at 211 E Main Street. Look for the prominent bell tower.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the area near the Mission. The closest bus stops are Santa Clara & Figueroa (Eastbound), a 3-minute walk away, and Ventura Ave & Park Row, a 5-minute walk away. A short trip on the local bus costs around $1.75.

  • Driving

    From US 101 North, take the California Avenue exit. Turn right onto California Avenue, then left onto E. Main Street. From US 101 South, take the Ventura Avenue exit and turn right on Thompson Street, then left on Palm Street. Parking is available on Main Street in front of the Mission, or turn left onto Palm and left again into the parking lot area next door. Parking fees range from $1-$2 per hour.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from within downtown Ventura to the Mission will typically cost between $7 and $12, depending on the distance and demand.

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Discover more about Mission Basilica San Buenaventura 1782

Mission Basilica San Buenaventura, located in the heart of downtown Ventura, is a captivating journey into California's past. Founded on Easter Sunday, March 31, 1782, by Father Junípero Serra, it was the ninth of the 21 California missions and the last one he personally dedicated. The mission is named in honor of Saint Bonaventure, a 13th-century Franciscan saint and Doctor of the Church. Originally intended to be the third mission in the chain, its establishment was delayed due to a shortage of military escorts. The first church was destroyed by fire in 1793, and the present church was completed in 1809. In 2020, Pope Francis elevated the church to a minor basilica, recognizing its historical and religious significance. Today, visitors can explore the beautifully restored church, wander through the serene gardens, and visit the museum, which houses a collection of Chumash artifacts and mission-era items. Highlights include the Mexican-crafted altar, the five bells in the campanario (bell tower), and the tranquil garden with its stone fountain and grotto. The museum also features unique artifacts like old wooden bells. The mission played a vital role in the region's development, with an extensive aqueduct system built by the Chumash people to support its agricultural endeavors. The mission's orchards and gardens were once renowned as the finest in the area. Mission Basilica San Buenaventura offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the legacy of California's mission era.

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