Historic Spanish mission with gardens, museum, and active parish
























"Established in 1786, the Santa Barbara Mission gives visitors a look into the city's origins. To this day, it is one of Santa Barbara's main cultural and historical landmarks. It’s iconic structure, signature peach color, and beautiful grounds (the rose garden is fantastic when in season!), the Mission is a must visit when in SB, whether you decided to go on the paid tour or just explore the public areas on your own." - Amanda Proudfit
"A storied Franciscan mission dating to the area’s Spanish colonial period, still associated with active friars and offering a tangible link to the region’s cultural and religious heritage for history-minded visitors." - Chelsee Lowe Chelsee Lowe Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure, TravelAge West, Ventura Blvd, and L.A. Parent, writing about food, family travel, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

"A true Santa Barbara landmark, this historic building, 10-acre garden, active parish, and mausoleum, is still home to a group of Franciscan friars as it was when it was built by the Spanish in 1786. It’s a great and scenic place to take kids to learn about California’s history. "

"Santa Barbara Mission, Santa Barbara by Amanda Proudfit. Established in 1786, the Santa Barbara Mission gives visitors a look into the city's origins. To this day, it is one of Santa Barbara's main cultural and historical landmarks. It’s iconic structure, signature peach color, and beautiful grounds (the rose garden is fantastic when in season!), the Mission is a must visit when in SB, whether you decided to go on the paid tour or just explore the public areas on your own."


"Santa Barbara Mission is a favorite historical site of Heather Lakey." - Sophie Friedman