Old Mission Santa Ines, Solvang

This is a nice mission to visit and unfortunately easy to pass by on the highway. Located on the eastern side of Solvang it has breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez mountain range and the magnificent valley below. Parking is free and it's easy to find a nice spot. It can get rather hot here in the Summer months and shaded parking spots fill up early. There's not too much to see here and the self guided tour can be completed in about 30 minutes. The gift shop is nice and they have a lot of neat things to buy. The mission is located within easy walking distance to downtown Solvang, so there's no real reason to miss seeing this historical landmark.

#19, of the 21 Missions, built in 1804. It's a living operating Mission, run by the Capuchin Franciscans. It's been in continuous use since the early days. It's small compared to the other Missions. But one of the best preserved, and renovated. But, to me a artists/photographer it lacks the artistic charm of the older, weather beaten Missions. Admission to the Mission is $6. That let's you in for a self guided tour of artifacts, the main church, and well maintained gardens and graveyard. Great views of the valley from the parking lot. Peaceful, charming, and quaint. Walking distance from downtown Solvang.