Mission Santa Ines, Solvang

Mission Santa Ines, with its yellow arches, sits atop a beautiful valley. Enjoy the views of the countryside while you explore the grounds. There is a small rose and cactus garden. The gift shop has pretty things and there is a museum you can enter for $5 (children under 12 enter for free). Inside, the church is lovely, with vines painted on the walls.

It doesn't take long to see the mission, so combine your visit with some other exciting things nearby: Walk around the charming town of Solvang and stop to eat at a sunny cafe. For an absolutely amazing medieval playground nearby, check out Sunny Fields Park. See the minaiture horses at Quicksilver Ranch or feed ostriches and emus at Ostrichland.
Each California mission is a little different and some people make a tour out of seeing them all! Santa Barbara Mission has a stunning location and a mix of Spanish and American Indian architecture. Views from the rose garden are heaven. La Purisima Mission is a salmon pink color and each room is set up like it would have been when it was a working mission- it's a magical place.

Directions

Mission Santa Ines is located at 1760 Mission Drive, Solvang CA 93464, call (805) 688-4815.
Exit Highway 101 at Highway 246 and head east into Solvang town. Once you pass Alisal Rd, the driveway to the mission is immediately on your right. There's plenty of parking. The museum and church costs $5 to enter (children under 12 enter for free). Or you can enter the church free right before mass.
Open daily 9-4:30.

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