A Spanish mission founded in 1786, Old Mission Santa Barbara provides an insight into the colonization of southern California. Franciscan friars created the mission so they could convert the indigenous Chumash tribe to Catholicism. Embark on self-guided tour through the sacred garden, historical cemetery, church, and museum, or take one of the docent-led tours. Don't miss the fountain, aqueduct, and lavandaria in the Mission's front yard, all original fixtures built by the Chumash. The museum is home to a Chumash prayer board, the first written Chumash ever attempted. Our Santa Barbara day trip planner makes visiting Old Mission Santa Barbara and other Santa Barbara attractions simple, and helps you make a travel plan personal to you.
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Old Mission Santa Barbara reviews
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It is located in a prominent position and the building is well maintained. If you want to avoid paying tour you Can visit the gift shop and take photos for exterior. You can also attend church...
It is located in a prominent position and the building is well maintained. If you want to avoid paying tour you Can visit the gift shop and take photos for exterior. You can also attend church... more »
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What a lovely way to spend an afternoon! I highly recommend taking the self-guided tour where you will get a closer look of the beautiful inner courtyard, the church, the cemetery, and the museum. It.... more
What a lovely way to spend an afternoon! I highly recommend taking the self-guided tour where you will get a closer look of the beautiful inner courtyard, the church, the cemetery, and the museum. It.... more »
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Beautiful and historical, this Spanish Catholic Mission church is one of 21 along the Pacific coast. Activities include attending midnight or regular Mass, the one of a kind annual chalk art festival, visiting the gift shop, going on the guided inside tour (for a small fee), walking through the rose gardens, or relaxing on the lawn greens. You will encounter peaceful, serene surroundings for meditation, prayer or relaxation. Also worth noting are the architecture and history that have been influenced by the regions Native American Indian Chumash.
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We had a great time at the mission. There is so much to learn. The gift shop had some great books and post cards and toys for the kids. We had a great day at the mission. I highly recommend going.
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