virtual tour of a california mission

California Missions

The mission story.

History of Mission Santa Cruz

Mission Santa Cruz, dedicated twelfth in the mission chain on August 28, 1791 by Farther Lasuén, is a tiny mission along the northern California coast. Unlike the rest of California’s missions, leaders did not name Santa Cruz after a saint, rather after the holy cross.

Although small in size, Mission Santa Cruz experienced a large string of misfortunes. First, a pueblo named Branciforte , was established on the other side of the river. Branciforte was founded with former prison convicts from Guadalajara. These settlers took land away from the Indians and used mission property at will.

Then, in 1818, the evil pirate Hippolyte de Bouchard was seen approaching the mission. De Bouchard had earlier vandalized Monterey, and for fear of a reoccurrence at Santa Cruz, the mission residence packed up valuables and fled to Mission Soledad. Unfortunately, some of the people from Branciforte took advantage of this mission vacancy and looted many of the remaining items left behind at Santa Cruz.

Secularization followed in 1834, depleting resources and causing the mission buildings to fall into disrepair. An 1845 earthquake toppled the church’s bell tower. Later, the earthquake of 1857 collapsed the mission buildings.

Completed in 1931, the current chapel is one-third the size of the original. The previous bell tower contained nine or ten bells, while today the replica contains only one. Inside the mission original paintings, statues and even a challis used by Father Serra, remain intact. The mission museum features vestments from significant periods in California history.

From Inside the California Missions © David A. Bolton

Quick Facts

• 12 th Mission
• Founded on 8/28/1791
• One of the smallest missions today, as a replica sits on the original site
• Named after the cross, rather than after a saint
• Large string of misfortunes over the years
• Criminals ransacked the property:
• “Evil pirate,” de Bouchard was seen approaching. Everyone fled, so some people took advantage of the vacancy and stole items
• Secularization brought the end of the mission system
• Major earthquakes in 1856 and 1857 wrecked havoc
• Smaller replica mission was completed in 1931
• Original painting, statues, and a chalice used by Serra remain intact
• Mission museum features vestments from significant periods of California history

Address 126 High Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Tel: 831-426-5686

Landmark Status National Register of Historic Places California State Landmark #342

Directions to the Mission From CA-17 South:  Exit CA-1 toward Half Moon Bay. Merge onto CA-1 north. Turn left onto Mission Street. Turn left onto Emmett Street. The mission sits on the corner of Emmett and High Street.

Hours of Operation Please call the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park at 831-425-5849 for information.

Facilities The Mision Galeria is a gallery of historic relics and contemporary religious art. The Galeria is open Tuesday-Saturday 10a - 4p and Sundays 10a - 2p, closed Mondays except after major holiday weekends. Please call 831-426-5686 for further information.

Picnic Area

Welcome to the California Missions Resource Center

The California Missions Resource Center is a comprehensive and unique resource for historical information on the twenty-one California Missions . We strive to provide quality information for students, teachers and people interested in discovering the wonderful history of the early missions and the people who helped create and shape the California we know today. 

Featured Mission

San diego de alcála.

California’s first mission was founded on July 16, 1769. Mission San Diego’s church (rebuilt in 1931) has a captivating 46 foot campanario (bell wall) you won’t forget. This mission has inviting grounds, informative displays, and a rich history.

California Mission Fact Sheets

What Do You Want to Know about California’s Missions?

It’s all here in the Key Fact Sheets – available for each of the 21 missions.

We now offer the Key Fact Sheets as a digital download making them immediately available for your project or travel plans.

• Mission Statement
• Safeguard the Children
• Parish Ministries
• Mass & Sacraments
• Children's Religous Education
• Confirmation of Youth
• Christian Intiation for Adults R.C.I.A.
• Parish Business Plan
• Civic and Community Action
• Employment Opportunities
• Archival Center
• Chumash: First People of the Land
• Historic Mission Sites
• Mission History
• Quick Facts
• Sacred Relics
• Everything Is Holy
• History, Truth, and Politics on Junipero Serra
• Interesting Facts about Serra
• Junipero Serra Biography
• Serra a letter from the mission field
• Serra: Protector of Native Americans
• Spiritual Discovery of the New World
• The letters of Junipero Serra
• Saint Kateri Tekawitha
• Santa Cruz Island
• Gift Shop & Museum
• Tours & Museum
• Driving Directions
• El Camino Real Pomniv Walk
• Annual Events
• Church Calendar
• Facility Calendar
• First Sunday Food Drive
• Catholic Churches
• Catholic Resources
• In the News
• Mission Links
• Religious Liberty Issues
• The University Series
• Loreto: Sister City-Sister Mission
• Angelus News
• Angelus Español
• 360 Mission Church
• Around the Mission
• Mission Chapel
• Mission Museum
• Stations of the Cross
• Mission Possible 2011
• Mission Possible 2012
• Via Cricis 2012

Online Giving

• -- Helpful Hints
• -- Obtener consejos útiles
• Wills and Trusts Legacy

Mission Tours

The mission basilica gift shop, museum, garden, and basilica church are open daily 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.  ( closed christmas day, new year’s day, easter and thanksgiving day), self-guided tour daily: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm individual rates: adults (18-64) $5.00 seniors (65+) $4.00 active military (w/id): $4.00 youth (5-17) $2.00 children (0-4) free.

This tour is perfect for those who would like to visit at their own pace. Self-guided tour includes the Museum, 30-minute Video, Garden and Grotto, Mission Basilica Church, Michelangelo’s Pietà, Padre's Burial and Settling Tank.

Click here to view Mission Basilica Tour Map 2020

Click here to watch a virtual tour of the California Missions "Hope On The Bus Tour" sponsored by the California Misisons Foundation.

See the Gallery section of this website for a 360 degree viw of the interior of the Mission.

During the School Year, Mission Basilica of San Buenaventura hosts special guided tours on select dates Friday following Thanksgiving Day (November) , Monday of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (January), Monday of President's Day (February).   Normal enrance fees are charged .  Reserve your tour 48 hours in advance by calling (805) 648-4496.  Expert docents provide a thorough opportunity to learn about Mission life, art and architecture and answer your questions. 

School Tours:

The Mission Basilica of San Buenaventura docents offer 4th grade school tours during the school year. To schedule a school tour please contact the Mission Gift Shop at 805-648-4496.  Please follow COVID protocols 

Click here for School Tour registration form and confirm with the Gift Shop personnel. Additional Mission information may be found on the History page of this webstie.

When Docents are unavailable, click on the following document: A Guide for Docents and Teachers to assist teachers and parents for the self-guided tour.

Special Holy Week Hours:

For more information please call 805-648-4496.

Tours begin at the Mission Basilica Gift Shop 225 E. Main Street Ventura, CA 93001

Wheelchair Access:  The Gift Shop has limited access to wheelchair users. Wheelchair users have access to the Gift Shop counter via the Main Street entrance and should request assistance to the Mission Basilica museum, garden and church via a gated alley within twenty feet from the Gift Shop entrance. We have three disabled parking spaces in the upper lot behind the Mission.  Please call the Gift Shop in advance for further details.  Admission fees for all visitors are posted on the website. There is no admission fee for daily Mass or on Saturday evening and Sunday morning.

Mission Bailica of San Buenaventura is unable to provide staff or volunteer docents to meet the needs of the hearing or sight impaired persons or other special needs. Schools and groups booking tours are requested to provide services to meet the needs of the hearing or sight impaired persons or other special needs.

There is no admission fee for scheduled Masses or Liturgies.

• " onclick="window.open(this.href,'win2','status=no,toolbar=no,scrollbars=yes,titlebar=no,menubar=no,resizable=yes,width=640,height=480,directories=no,location=no'); return false;" rel="nofollow"> Print
• Children's Religous Education

APRIL 2024 Ministry Schedule

  *   Holy Days of Obligation   *

  Confession/Confesiones: Saturdays/Sábados  4:00 - 5:00 PM

Registration / Inscripción

• Parish Census Form
• Forma del censo Parroquial

Baptism / Bautismos

By Appointment Only Por Cita Solamente

English Downloads :

• Registration Form

 ADLA ONLINE Course [click here]

• Forma de registro

Curso en línea de la Arquidiócesis [ haga clic aquí ]

Confirmation / Confirmación

Registration for this current year is now CLOSED

Las inscripciones para este año ya están CERRADAS

Marriage / Matrimonios

By Appointment Minimally Six Months in Advance:

• Online Marriage Preparation Agape Ministries
• Online Marriage Preparation Archdiocese of Los Angeles  

Con cita Mínimo 6 Meses De Anticipación:

Office Hours

Parish Center Office Hours Horario de la Oficina

Monday-Friday/ Lunes a Viernes 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Closed Thursdays 1-2:30 pm Cerrado los jueves de 1-2:30 pm

Photography by: Matt Morrisset, Tom Simondi, unknown

Site by Bitwize

Enjoy A Unique Road Trip or Virtual Tour of the California Missions

Posted by Savvy Cali Girl Contributing Author | May 5, 2021 | Places To Go | 0

If you’ve never visited the California missions, you are in for a treat! They are beautiful, educational and located throughout California. They are an ideal destination to add to any California road trip. Additionally, virtual tours are available online through the California Missions Foundation.

**Disclaimer**

The businesses and events highlighted are in no way a “Best Of…” list. They are simply places and activities our Savvy Cali Girl contributors have deemed worthy of a shout out. If you want us to tell our readers about your favorite place, tag us with #scgplacestogo and we’ll catch you next time we come through town! All images are the property of the Savvy Cali Girl Blog unless other attributes are noted. 

The Fourth Grade California Missions Project

Students across California learn and create projects based the California missions. In addition, since the mission locations stretch across the state from San Diego all the way to San Francisco, most students are within a car ride to a mission in their area. As a result, many students enjoy field trips with their class in fourth grade.

Both of our children recreated a mission in fourth grade and took a field trip to Mission San Diego de Alcalá. On top of that, we also took the opportunity to visit San Juan Capistrano since it was a nice day trip from San Diego.

Personally, I enjoyed helping with their projects, going on field trips and having a little extra family trip. It was a bonding opportunity. It also doesn’t hurt that the missions are gorgeous places to visit and the weather is generally cooperative at that time of year.

If you are unable to travel to each of the missions, you can also visit each of them virtually. The link provided here is to the California Missions Foundation which provides virtual tours.

California Missions Foundation Map

Native American History and The Establishment of the California Missions by the Spanish

Juana Maria, Last Surviving Member of the Nicoleño Tribe via Wikipedia Commons

I would be remiss if I left out the more difficult history of the California missions established by the Spanish. In most cases, native American populations resisted the occupation of the Spanish. In fact, many missions were relocated after they were established. The new locations could be fortified against attacks from the local Native American tribes.

The missions were ravaged by disease as working conditions for the people of the tribes were usually atrocious. Activists try to accurately portray the true cost of the Spanish missions in California, including atrocities by the Spanish and the Franciscans.

You can read more here in an article published in 2016 by Caitlin Harrington, the Lesser-Told Story of the California Missions.

“A photograph of a Native American woman, believed to be Juana Maria, who was the last surviving member of her tribe, the Nicoleño. This photograph was found alongside a picture of Maria Sinforosa Ramona Sanchez, wife of George Nidever, with whom Maria had lived while at the Santa Barbara Mission.” Source: Wikipedia Commons.

The Gardens of the California Missions

Most missions today have gardens  with flowers, climbing vines, and ornamental trees. When the missions were initially established, gardens referred to in journals were, in actuality, nearby farms used to sustain the mission inhabitants.

While many visitors today enjoy gorgeous blooms and overgrown trees in quaint courtyards, the missions of the 1700’s experienced drought challenges. In fact, they didn’t even drill wells but instead constructed dams and aqueducts, hence their vulnerability to the climate. If you ‘d like to know about the horticultural history, Gardens of the California Missions by Tom Brown , is an excellent resource and linked here for you.

To illustrate, Cardinell-Vincent Company of San Francisco, distributed actual photographs as sepia toned postcards from the late 1800’s and early twentieth century. They illustrate the true austerity of the missions. The link here will take you to a full gallery of them.

Cardinell-Vincent Postcards of the California Missions via missionscalifornia.com

California Missions of San Diego and Los Angeles

Clearly, Southern California missions are among the most beautiful but I am quite biased honestly. They hold fond memories with my own children. On top of that, the weather is usually perfect for wandering the grounds of any of the missions.

San Diego de Alcalá

Located the furthest south of any of the sites, this mission is the earliest of the sites as well. Established in 1769 by Father Junipero Serra, the Spanish envisioned a chain of sites throughout the region. In this way, they spread their faith, political influence and overall territory.

The most prominent feature is the campanario, a wall forty-six feet high, holding five massive bronze bells. Mater Dolorosa is the largest of the bells and weighs 1,200 pounds!

Today, the parish is still active and the historical elements are well preserved for visitors. Even the room where Father Junipero is original, surviving native american attacks and natural disasters.

Bernard Gagnon Image via Wikipedia Commons

King of the California Missions, San Luis Rey de Francía

The church at San Luis Rey is best known for its wooden cupola and dome, letting light stream in. The very first pepper tree is also planted at this site, brought from Peru in 1830.

California Mission San Luis Rey de Francía was established by Father Lasuén in 1798. Affectionately called the “king of the Missions,” its land size boasts three times that of other missions. In addition, it had a large population and prodigious crop production.

Interestingly, it is one of only two Franciscan missions, the other being Mission Santa Barbara.

User Geographer via Wikipedia Creative Commons

San Juan Capistrano

Mission San Juan Capistrano is famous for a few different reasons but primarily the home of the annual cliff swallows migration. The birds return each spring from South America.

The mission is named for the 15th-century Franciscan, St. John Capistran. The chapel is the oldest standing building in California and contains a beautiful cherry altar from Barcelona.

Katie Evensen Photo via Pexels

Today, there are tours,  a cute coastal city filled with shops and eateries, surrounds the mission. You can spend the day walking and never see your vehicle again until the day is done.

With spring in the air, check out the Mission San Juan Capistrano Facebook . As you can see, the courtyard is in full bloom!

Mission San Gabriel Arcángel

Found in 1771 by Father Serra, Mission San Gabriel Arcángel lies just east of downtown Los Angeles. The design of the mission is based on the Cathedral of Cordova in Spain.

This mission was incredibly productive and supplied many other missions throughout California. It is still a working and active Roman Catholic church.

Robert A. Estremo Image via Wikipedia

San Fernando Rey de España

Father La Suen founded this mission in 1797. It was located between coastal San Buenaventura and San Gabriel further inland. As a result, it was a waypoint for travelers and provided a safe, comfortable place to stay.

Wikipedia Creative Commons Attribution via User “Geographer”

Mission Basilica San Buenaventura

This site was found in 1782 in what is today Ventura, California. In June 2020, it was elevated to a minor basilica. All that remains are the church and the gardens which overlook the Pacific Ocean.

In all honesty, have you ever seen such a beautiful panorama for a proposal or engagement photos? In any case, a stop here along your road trip would be phenomenal.

Ricardo Holden Image via Wikipedia

Central California Missions

The missions of Central California are located among some of the most beautiful locations along the coastal corridor. The views are endless and the drives scenic. It is worth the cost of a rental car to cruise this region of California and explore the California missions here. If you take a road trip, the Central California coast is a must!

Santa Bárbara, Queen of the California Missions 

While you may easily recognize Santa Barbara architecture, there is actually a mission located there with tremendous views. It was established in 1786 by Father Lasuén and is know as the “Queen of the Missions.” It eventually became the headquarters for all of the California missions.

The mission has a massive water treatment system pictured below. Originally built by the Chumash Indians under the direction of the Franciscans, it is still in use today. This site experienced extensive development in and around the mission, including presidios, the harbor and in later days educational institutions.

Today, this California mission is located right off the 101 freeway, close to all the attractions on State Street. We were there quite early and caught the sun peeping over the eastern hills. It was peaceful and an opportunity to reflect before the busy noise of the day began.

The Town of Santa Barbara

Take time to visit the nearby town of Santa Barbara. You can learn more about State Street and what is available in and around the area with our post, Santa Barbara, Stroll Down State Street: Eats & Treats, Things To Do and a Boutique Hotel Stay .

Want to spend a long weekend in just this one zip code? Why not take advantage of Santa Barbara as a destination in and of itself? Without a doubt, the proximity to other coastal cities is a huge advantage since you spend less time packing and more time just enjoying activities.

Santa Inés, A Favorite Among the California Missions

Located near Solvang and popular California wine regions, Mission Santa Inés, is now restored thanks to a grant by the Hearst Foundation. The site was originally a waypoint for travelers along the Central California Coast among the missions.

If I could stop for a quiet picnic at a mission, Santa Ines would be my choice. Why? They have a gorgeous view of the valley, shade trees, and ample parking.

I particularly enjoyed the peaceful walkway with benches. I was there in the morning when the dew was shaken off the pepper tree leaves by gentle breezes. It was like a light sprinkle and felt like a small blessing for the upcoming day.

Clearly, it was a moment of zen at the onset of a long drive north.

La Purísima Concepción

The Mission of La Purísima Concepción was founded by Father Lasuén in 1787. Marked by earthquakes and revolts, It faced challenges like many of the other missions. Located in Lompac, it is a linear architecture instead of the standard square configuration.

In addition, it is actually one of the very few California missions that do reenactments. Oddly, after extensive renovations, a dedication was held December 7, 1941, an infamous day in American history.

La Purisma Concepcion is a quaint mission, hidden away across a little bridge. You’re greeted by two massive ambassadors (a pair of very large pigs) who seem quite happy to see you. I didn’t venture too close in case I was misreading their seemingly happy snorts. Now, in the distance, you can clearly see the terracotta colored building.

Unfortunately, we weren’t able to enter due to covid restrictions, but they do offer a QR code for a 360 virtual tour which is helpful. There is also a visitor center located in the same parking area. Again, we were not able to enter, but many hikers were heading out as explored this area.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

The Mission San Luis Obispo was founded in 1772 by Father Junipero Serra and is one of the only missions still stands on its original site. It has undergone many different renovations by different groups since it was established.

Today, though, it sits at the center of downtown San Luis Obispo, restored structurally and reflecting an architectural style more representative of its history. I was expecting a large site but it actually seemed rather small in comparison to places like San Diego or Santa Barbara.

Since our trip was during spring, we actually stopped to enjoy our lunch in their courtyard which was in full bloom. I must admit I indulged in photos of the blooms and neglected to remember to catch the front of the mission!

Harrison Lai Image via Wikipedia Creative Commons

The Town of San Luis Obispo

If you have the time, San Luis Obispo boasts a treasure trove of activities. There are any number of outdoor activities from hiking to kayaking but also a huge variety of wineries and restaurants in and around the area.

One of our most popular posts provides an in-depth look at the town from the point of view of a potential student at Cal Poly, How to Decide if Cal Poly, SLO is the Right School for You . Another post, San Luis Obispo, California’s Hidden Gem: Places to Eat, Sleep & Play , takes you through additional interesting locations.

San Miguel Arcángel

Wow! I have to admit, I was not expecting such a beautifully restored mission when we pulled off the freeway. Truly, just off the exit with nothing much else in sight, lies the church and mission buildings. I wish I could have toured the buildings and enjoyed the serene courtyard. Indeed, COVID restrictions limited us to the parking lot running the length of the site.

Father Lasuén and Father Buenaventura Sitjar founded the mission in 1797. It features some of the most beautiful interior spaces of the California missions.

Unfortunately, earthquakes continue even into the recent the 21st century, requiring repair and restoration. The last restoration was done by the California Missions Foundation and a source of much the historical information referenced in this blog post.

Mission San Antonio de Padua

Father Junipero Serra founded this mission in 1771. Mission San Antonio de Padua is a rather remote location in comparison to many of the other missions. Hence, we were unable to visit in person on this trip.

Today, it is an operating parish, retreat and historical site for visitors. There is a lot see and experience here, much of it, as it was used in the past.

Mission San Antonio de Padua via Wikipedia Commons

Nuestra Señora de La Soledad

Founded in 1791 by Father Lasuén, Mission Nuestra Señora de La Soledad is located in Soledad, California. During its development, the mission was ravaged by floods from the Salinas River. It lay abandoned for nearly a century. Eventually, in the 1940’s it was sold back to the Catholic church who began restorations with the help of Native Daughters of the Golden West.

Now, Mission Soledad was closed on the day we were road trippin on the 101 unfortunately. It is a good reminder to check any special destinations for their hours of operation. While this wasn’t entirely out of the way, some of them are not as conveniently located. In any case, Soledad is in a rather rural farming location with rows of lettuce as far as the eye can see.

Northern California Missions

The scenery really does change from rolling hills and sprawling scenery to truly green, misty valleys. Again, the views are stupendous with terrific cities to explore along the way like Santa Cruz and San Francisco. To be clear, I was not able to visit each and every site personally but wanted to add history even for those I did not visit on this particular trip. The post will be updated as California continues to open after the COVID closures of 2020 and 2021.

San Carlos Borroméo de Carmelo

San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo was founded in 1770 by Father Serra. Interestingly, it is the only mission with its original bell tower and bell. It is commonly referred to as the Carmel Mission today.

The oldest residential dwelling in California, the Carmel mission Orchard House was built circa 1774. In addition, there are four museums and/or exhibits on the site. The image displays how remote most of these locations were at the time.

The San Carlos Mission circa 1893 via Wikipedia Commons

Mission San Juan Bautista

Located just off the 101, visiting this mission is easy and convenient. Normally, there are museum exhibits and a gift shop but they were closed temporarily until health restrictions are lifted.

With a state park also situated here, it is a nice place for a break from the road.  Cruise through old time saloons, the mission exhibits or the cute downtown area. There is ample parking and a variety of options for all ages.

San Francisco de Asís, California Mission Dolores

Located in the Mission District, the San Francisco de Asís mission is now referred to as Mission Dolores. “Mission Dolores” is thus named for a nearby creek.

In addition, it is the oldest surviving structure in San Francisco, founded in 1776 by Father Francisco Palóu. This mission and its accompanying basilica remain at the heart in the city San Francisco.

David Vives Photo via Unsplash

Mission Santa Cruz

Founded in 1791, Mission Santa Cruz was flooded early on by the San Lorenzo River. Consequently, it was rebuilt on a hillside overlooking the river.

Due to natural disasters, revolts and attacks by multitudes of groups, the only surviving original structure is a building which served as housing for Yokut and Ohlone Native American families. Today, there are replicas of buildings and lots of events held here.

While I was unable to visit several missions due to time constraints on this road trip, Mission Santa Cruz is part of my future California bucket list. I hope to explore the site and especially the city of Santa Cruz itself. Feel free to drool over the images from the area or get excited about so many activity options via the Visit Santa Cruz County Website.

Mission Santa Cruz via Wikipedia Creative Commons

Santa Clara de Asís

This mission also suffered from earthquakes, fires, and floods. As a result, it also relocated from its original site established in 1777. In 1851, a college was created at the mission site, the only mission to do this by the way, becoming Santa Clara University.

Because this mission is located on campus, access is limited and photography not possible at the moment. The best photo I found was actually on the Visit Santa Clara website which is linked here .

Mission San José

I truly wish there was time to visit Mission San José in person as there were few current resources. Certainly there is a great deal of historical information however.

Initially, it was quite successful but an earthquake destroyed a majority of its buildings. Today, the church is one of the most authentic restorations in California. Hence, the opportunity to explore this site further is undeniable.

Mission San José Image via Wikipedia Creative Commons

San Rafael Arcángel

Nestled within the town of San Raphael, lies Mission San Rafael Arcángel. Today, it has an active parish and school. The site was originally founded in 1817 as a hospital. It offered better rehabilitation due to the East Bay climate versus nearby missions.

While it is an incredibly compact site, there is still room for gorgeous blooms all along its perimeter. In addition, I fell in love with pink hue of the church and several other buildings.

Mission San Francisco Solano

In 1823 in Sonoma, the last mission was established. Originally, the site was supposed to be the new location of Mission San Francisco de Asís but the approval was denied. Instead, an entirely new mission was created.

This link provided contains all of the most current information regarding the mission history, visitor information including closures, hours of operation, etc..

Mission San Francisco Solano Image via Wikipedia Creative Commons

Resources for More Information About California Missions

I listed a few resources below. If you’re doing the fourth grade mission project or want to dig deeper into the history, they may help you.

missionscalifornia.com Pentacle Press offers this website as a resource for students, their parents, teachers and visitors.

californiamissionsfoundation.org The California Missions Foundation objective is preserving and protecting the missions.

californiamissionguide.com This site is a travel site with links to others. They have resources for visitors but also for teachers and students.

Let Us Know Your Experience!

If you visit the California missions, feel free to add your experiences about the missions or the area in the comment section below. While a short trip through California certainly has many options, any site could be added to virtually any itinerary.

The search function of the blog will also allow you to find information for a particular destination or activity. Browse and save to your Pinterest board or other social accounts for future reference. Whether you are a mobile user or on the desktop or tablet, that function will help you find what you need quickly.

About The Author

Savvy Cali Girl Contributing Author

Savvy Cali Girl is comprised of a handful of contributors who appreciate and embody the spirit of California. We've banded together to showcase everything we love about the Golden State because we have a shared passion for writing, fun, travel, and entrepreneurship. Our goal is to help you experience California to its fullest and live a balanced life while doing it. ​ We'll provide creative inspiration for savvy ways to do business, fun things to enjoy, and places to visit along the way. As a lifelong California native, you may even find a few insider tips. Don't be surprised if travel becomes a focus as restrictions loosen!

Related Posts

Enjoy A Day Trip Through Gorgeous Marin County California, A Feast For The Eyes

August 16, 2021

A Simple Julian CA Day Trip Itinerary

January 27, 2020

Griffith Park & Observatory: The Central Park of Los Angeles

December 3, 2019

Santa Barbara, Stroll Down State Street: Eats & Treats, Things To Do and a Boutique Hotel Stay

November 12, 2019

Contact Us or Subscribe

• Agriculture & Equine
• Arts & Nonprofits
• Food & Drink

Select Page

12,000 fourth-graders take virtual tour of California missions

Posted by Raiza Giorgi | Mar 2, 2021 | Education | 0 |

Staff Report

California Missions Foundation (CMF), a Santa Barbara-based nonprofit serving the 21 California missions, offered a virtual field trip Feb. 11 to some 12,000 fourth-graders throughout the state.

The online tour, featuring the native story, and several missions throughout the California chain, drew students from northern California to Santa Barbara. Locally, Cold Springs Elementary was among the schools participating.

All Aboard the Bus is CMF’s regular field trip program, that sends fourth-grade students on in-person visits to their missions. The program is in its 17th year, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, CMF organized a virtual field trip and made it available to schools throughout the state.

“This was a great opportunity for us to provide a visual component on California history to students that, for the most part, are studying at home,” said David Bolton, CMF executive director. “Keeping history alive for the next generation is so important. The response today was tremendous.”

“This was a great introduction to the thematic unit — thorough and engaging,” said Mary Dove, vice principal at St. Bruno Catholic School in Whittier. “We are all so appreciative that you put this together. We have missed our field trip to San Juan Capistrano, and this went a long way to easing that disappointment for our students.”

“This allowed history to come to life, provided context, and gave them a field trip experience they wouldn’t otherwise have had,” said Robin Echt, a fourth-grade teacher in Calabasas.

About The Author

Raiza Giorgi

Owner | Publisher Shooting for the stars!

Related Posts

Zaca Center closing next August if a replacement isn’t found

September 3, 2016

SBCC offering new Evening College for working students

December 18, 2018

Hancock to continue remote classes for spring semester

November 3, 2020

Pirates finish winter seasons with many all-league selections

March 19, 2019

Latest Issue

Historic Landmark, Chapel, Museum and Gardens

Online Audio Tour

Welcome! There are two ways to enjoy your listening experience. Choose one or combine all four for a fully immersive experience. We hope you have fun and learn something new!

1. Online Audio Tour by Itself

Scroll down and click on the audio stops to begin.

2. Online Audio Tour with Mission Map

Download a  Mission Map  to follow along while you listen to the audio tour.

Introduction and Front Courtyard What is a Mission? — Founding Document Stop 2   Additional Information

Mission Agriculture — Olive Millstone Stop 3

Life as a Soldier — Soldiers Barracks Stop 4   Additional Information

South Wing Museum Rooms Life as a Padre — South Wing Building Stop 5   Additional Information

Father Jose Mut The Padres’ Sitting Room Stop 51

The Mission after Spain Loses Control of California (1821-1833) Stop 52

The Mission sold as a Private Ranch Home (1845-1865) Stop 53

The Mission Returned to the Catholic Church (1865) Stop 54

Father Junipero Serra (1713-1784) Legacy of Saint Serra Exhibit Stop 55

Mission Preservation — Historic Sala Building, c.1800 (1845-1865) Stop 56

West Wing Museum Rooms Life as an Acjachemen Native American Stop 6   Additional Information

Historic Wine Vat/Art Exhibit Stop 7   Additional Information

Mission Treasures Exhibit Stop 8

Industrial Area Making Mission Products: Candles & Soap Stop 9

Making Metal: The Catalan Furnaces Stop 91

Making Leather: The Tanning Vats Stop 92

Central Courtyard Mission Swallows Fame and History Leon Rene Music Room Stop 10

Swallows Nests and Natural History Stop 101   Additional Information

Swallows Reenactment Wall Experiment Stop 102

Building the Mission Parish School, 1920s North Wing Building Stop 11

Central Courtyard: Past and Present Stop 12

Serra Chapel Serra Chapel, 1782 Stop 13

Baptismal Font, c. 1800s Stop 131

Stations of the Cross Paintings, c. 1790s Stop 132

St. Peregrine Chapel, c. 1960s Stop 133

St. John of Capistrano Painting, c. 1800s Stop 134

Station XII: Crucifixion Painting, 1800 Stop 135   Additional Information

Golden Altar/Retablo, c. 1690s Stop 136   Additional Information

Historic Architecture and Conclusion

Historic Landmark Mission Cemetery (c. 1781-1850) Stop 14

Bell Wall/ Campanario, c. 1813 Stop 15

Ruins of the Great Stone Church, 1806 Stop 16

Conclusion Stop 17

Additional Information About the Mission’s Non Profit Status Stop 18

Mission Membership: How you can help preserve the Mission Stop 19

Credits and acknowledgements Stop 20

Support Mission San Juan Capistrano and Save!

Member benefits include free daily admission and other exclusive perks.

Book Your Tour Here!

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá 10818 San Diego Mission Rd San Diego, CA 92108-2429

Visitor Admission Prices

Adults $8.00

55+ / Active Military / Students $5.00

Children, age 6-12 $3.00

(No admission fee for celebrating Mass with us)

Driving Directions From Los Angeles: I-5 south to I-805 south to I-52 east to I-15 south Exit Friars Road east Right at first signal onto Rancho Mission Road Left at first signal onto San Diego Mission Road The Mission is one-half block on the left

From Downtown San Diego: I-8 east to Mission Gorge Road exit Left at signal. Proceed on Mission Gorge Left onto Twain Avenue Twain Avenue becomes San Diego Mission Road The Mission is on the right

From the East: I-8 west to Mission Gorge Road exit Right at signal. Proceed on Mission Gorge Left onto Twain Avenue Twain Avenue becomes San Diego Mission Road The Mission is on the right

San Diego Trolley: Take the trolley to the Mission San Diego stop Exit trolley and walk to the left on Rancho Mission Road for one half block Turn right onto San Diego Mission Road The Mission is one half block on the left or north side of San Diego Mission Road

Virtual Tour:

• Sep 12, 2023

Immerse Your Students in California Mission History with a Virtual Field Trip

Are you searching for an interactive way to teach your students about the history and cultural significance of the California Missions? If so, I've got you covered with this virtual field trip! All the prep work is done to provide an interactive learning experience that includes an overview of all 21 missions!

The California Missions date back to 1769 when the Spanish built a chain of 21 missions spanning from San Diego to Sonoma, California. Each mission is about 30 miles apart, which by horseback was about a day's journey.

The virtual field trip takes advantage of Google Earth to transport students to each mission location. This virtual field is set up in Google Slides with all of the content done for you. The Google Earth links and features have been meticulously curated for each of the 21 missions. These placemarks provide valuable information and insights about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of each mission. This virtual field trip has been carefully designed to provide the entire story, with the indigenous perspective that often gets overlooked.

Students begin their virtual journey at the southernmost mission, San Diego de Alcalá, and progress northward, visiting each mission in chronological order. As they explore the missions, students can view 360-degree images, and discover captivating stories about the challenges faced by the indigenous communities.

The virtual field trip also offers additional features to enrich the learning experience. Students can access detailed maps that showcase the geographical layout of each mission, allowing them to understand the strategic placement and design considerations. Furthermore, historical thinking response questions are incorporated throughout the virtual tour. All of the response questions are editable so they can be tailored to fit your classroom curriculum or student needs.

By embarking on this California Missions Virtual Field Trip, you will provide your students with an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the missions. The immersive nature of the experience allows students to visualize the architecture, explore the grounds, and grasp the complex interactions between the missionaries and the Native American communities.

Whether you are teaching California history, social studies, or cultural studies, this virtual field trip offers an invaluable resource to enhance your curriculum. It engages students with its interactive features, promotes critical thinking, and fosters a sense of curiosity and exploration.

This ready-to-go activity enables you to bring the rich history and cultural heritage of the California Missions directly into your classroom. Through the power of Google Earth and interactive elements, your students will embark on an unforgettable educational journey, deepening their understanding of this significant chapter in American history.

What Teachers are Saying:

"We learn about missions in CA social studies. This resource was more engaging than a textbook, but also didn't step on 4th grade's mission project. Perfect!" - A.O.

"This is an excellent resource to use when teaching about the Mission Period of California history. Thank You!" - W.I.S.

Grab this virtual field trip for your classroom:

California Missions Virtual Field Trip

• Virtual Field Trips
• U.S. History

Recent Posts

Quick and Easy Sub Plans for Your Social Studies Class

Seven Wonders of the World Virtual Tour for Students

Embark on a Classroom Adventure: A Virtual Field Trip to Explore Caves!

• Photo Gallery/Virtual Tour
• Mission Santa Clara de Asís

A few points of interest located in and around the Mission Church.

Feel more than welcome to download and use any of these images shared below.  Just right-click to save/download the image of your choice.

A virtual walk-through of historic Mission Santa Clara's interior.

The front facade of Mission Santa Clara, student chapel of Santa Clara University.

At over 160 years old, the wisteria continues to bloom every spring.

The Wisteria Arbor is over 160 years old, and continues to permeate the campus with its fragrant scent every spring.

This statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus covers the old Mission water well.

Here's a closer view of the Sacred Heart of Jesus statue.

The Adobe Wall is a remnant of the 1822 Mission quadrangle, and is part of the oldest structure remaining on our campus, the Adobe Lodge.

Whether on your way to class or just visiting for the day, our Mission Gardens are an attraction to all who pass through.

This is the entrance to the Rose Garden Cemetery.  The cemetery is closed to the public and a memorialized area for those still buried on our grounds.

The Rose Garden Cemetery Gates.

These walls memorialize those still buried on our grounds, however, the original cemetery area extended far beyond what you see today.

This overlook is actually comprised of the porch entrance to the old student chapel that was burned down in the fire of 1926.  These steps are all that remain, and today give a nice view into the Rose Garden Cemetery.

The Mission's sanctuary and high altar

The sanctuary's beautifully detailed arch and ceiling

The painting to the right of the high altar reredos was created by Candelario Rivas in 1931 and depicts St. Anthony embracing Christ on the cross.

To the left of the high altar reredos is a painting created by Candelario Rivas in 1931 depicting St. Francis of Assisi.

The nave of the Mission Church, with it's 6 side chapels, 3 chandeliers, and 150 foot long aisle.

Our Lady of Guadalue Side Chapel   Statues of St. Anne and St. Joachim (Mary's parents) flank the lower level, while 2 portraints of Mary, mother of God, grace the center.  The smaller portrait located above the larger is a remnant of the 1926 fire that destroyed the previous Mission.

Catala Crucifix Chapel Within this chapel is a large crucifix in front of which Padre Magin Catala prayed.  It is a historic item that students were able to save from the 1926 fire.

St. Ignatius Side Chapel Prominently displayed in this chapel is a portrait of St. Ignatius, painted by Fr. Dan Sullivan, S.J.

Here's a closer look at the painting of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit Order.

St. Francis Side Chapel A Mission era statue of St. Francis of Assisi (center), is displayed along with St. Collette and St. Francis of Solano.  The latter two statues were saved by students from the 1926 fire.  The altar also houses a relic of St. Juniperro Serra, founder of the 21 Alta California Missions. 

The Holy Family This impressive painting was done by Riva Giuseppe Bergamo in 1889 and portrays the holy family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph juxtaposed with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  It originally graced the high altar of the adjacent student chapel but was pulled from the 1926 fire before the building was destroyed.

California Missions Trail

Join us in supporting all initiatives to scout, map, mark, certify, sustain, and promote the california missions trail: a long-distance trail rooted in the past that provides spiritual, recreational, and economic benefits for the future..

Change the way you see the trail

Buy memorabilia and support the trail

Find a gift for a friend or reward yourself

Which Missions Are In State Parks?

There are almost 300 State Parks in California. Three of them are connected to the historic missions. In Santa Barbara County, there is La Purisima Mission. Santa Cruz County has a mission complex that includes a single adobe building that was once...

A Journey Through California's Past and Present

In his new book, author Sandy Brown names California as the journey's star. With turn-by-turn directions for an epic 800-mile long-distance trail, the author captures a slice of California's unique landscapes, people, history, and cultural heritage..

Something Old, Something New

An Elegant Display Map

Over the years, we have looked for maps related to the California Missions Trail (CMT) in books, archive libraries, and online. We have …

A Brief History of Mission San Miguel

Established as number 16 out of 21, Mission San Miguel has a unique feature: its interior murals, initially painted in the 1800s by …

A Tour of Early California Architecture from San Diego to Sonoma

The Spanish missions of California represent the state’s oldest and richest architectural legacy. Established in the late eighteenth century and early nineteenth century by Franciscan …

Mission San Buenaventura

All that remains of the original mission is the church and its garden. A small museum sits at the mission with displays of Chumash …

Guess Who is Walking the Trail from Sonoma to San Diego?

In his latest project, travel guide and author Sanford “Sandy” Brown is making preparations to write a guidebook for the California Missions Trail, the 815-mile walking/biking itinerary…

The Road the Famous Fathers Trod

Postcards from the first half of the 20th century give us a glimpse of the past. The route shown on the postcard below …

La Purísima Mission State Historic Park is within the California State Parks System

Mission La Purísima was originally established at a site known to the Chumash people as Algsacpi and to the Spanish as the plain of Río Santa Rosa, one mile south of Lompoc. 

Turn of the Century Drawing of the Mission San Juan Bautista

In the summers of 1880 and 1881, while living in Santa Barbara, California, Henry C. Ford traveled by horse and buggy to each mission. In 1893, he exhibited his mission etchings at the Chicago World’s Fair. He died in 1894, leaving behind his California mission paintings.

Over the years, we have looked for maps related to the California Missions Trail (CMT) in books, archive libraries, and online. We have found intriguing

Established as number 16 out of 21, Mission San Miguel has a unique feature: its interior murals, initially painted in the 1800s by Catholic Salinan

The Spanish missions of California represent the state’s oldest and richest architectural legacy. Established in the late eighteenth century and early nineteenth century by Franciscan missionaries, the

All that remains of the original mission is the church and its garden. A small museum sits at the mission with displays of Chumash Indian artifacts

Postcards from the first half of the 20th century give us a glimpse of the past. The route shown on the postcard below has the

California Mission Trails Alliance

Po box 22352 santa barbara, ca 93121 usa, organization, regional committees.

CTMA, the California Missions Trail Alliance, connects diverse allies around a historic trail that spans communities throughout central and southern California. CMTA is hosted by the Santa Barbara County Trails Council . | © 2022 CMTA |   Privacy Policy |  Legal Notice |  Site Map |  Contact | Honoring and Respecting Native Americans

Privacy Overview

No paywalls. No subscriptions. Noozhawk is free for everyone!

Sign up for Noozhawk's FREE daily newsletters!

For the latest news in Santa Barbara County — delivered right to your inbox .

• A.M. Report Sent daily at 4:15 a.m.
• P.M. Report Sent daily at 4:15 p.m.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The freshest news in Santa Barbara County

School Zone

12,000 fourth-graders take virtual tour of california missions.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)

Misión la Purísima Concepción de María Santísima (Mission of the Immaculate Conception of Most Holy Mary) was founded by Father Presidente Fermin de Lasuén on December 8, 1787.  It was the 11th of 21 Franciscan Missions established in Alta California.

A major earthquake on December 21, 1812, destroyed many of the mission buildings.  Father Mariano Payeras received permission to relocate the mission community four miles to the northeast in La Cañada de los Berros, next to El Camino Real.  La Purísima Mission was officially established in its new location on April 23, 1813.  Materials salvaged from the buildings destroyed by the earthquake were used to construct the new buildings, which were completed within ten years.

The end of the California missions came in 1834, when the Mexican government, which had gained independence from Spain, transferred control of the missions from the Catholic Church to civil authorities.  The property passed into private ownership and the mission buildings fell into ruin.  In 1933,  the Union Oil Company deeded several parcels to the State of California.  Under direction of the National Park Service, the Civilian Conservation Corps restored or reconstructed many of the mission’s adobe buildings. 

Today, La Purísima Mission State Historic Park is considered the most completely restored mission in California, with ten of the original buildings fully restored and furnished, including the church, shops, living quarters, and blacksmith shop.  The mission gardens and livestock represent what would have been found at the mission during the 1820’s.  Special living history events are scheduled throughout the year.  A visitor center features information, displays and artifacts, and a self-guided tour gives visitors the opportunity to step back in time for a glimpse of a brief, turbulent period in California’s history.

Virtual Tour

Presented by.

A Tour of California’s Spanish Missions

A poignant reminder of the region’s fraught history, missions such as San Miguel are treasured for their stark beauty

Shirley Macagni, a 78-year-old retired dairy rancher and great-grandmother of seven, is an elder of the Salinan tribe, whose members have inhabited California’s Central Coast for thousands of years. Macagni calls her oak-dotted ancestral region, a largely unspoiled terrain of orchards, vineyards and cattle ranches, a “landscape that still stirs people’s imaginations.”

Spanish settlers, arriving in the late 1700s, would decimate the tribe through smallpox, servitude and other depredations; resistance was dealt with harshly, and, says Macagni, fewer than a thousand Salinan survive today. The Spaniards’ legacy is complicated, and, Macagni feels, it is unfair to judge 18th-century attitudes and actions by contemporary standards. “They didn’t deliberately say they’re going to destroy people,” she says. “Records show that [the Salinan] were housed and fed and taught. My [ancestral] line developed into some of the best cattlemen and cowboys in the country. They learned that through the Spanish padres and the army that came with them.”

By delving into 18th-century parish archives, Macagni has documented her family’s links to the region’s earliest European outposts: Franciscan missions founded to convert the native population and extend Spain’s colonial empire northward into virgin territory the settlers called Alta (Upper) California. Macagni is especially proud of the Salinan connections to Mission San Miguel, Arcángel, ties that go back to its founding in 1797. She has fond memories of childhood outings and fiesta days there. “For as long as I can remember,” she says, “tribal members, the elders and the children were held in great regard.” Although she is not Catholic—she follows tribal beliefs—Macagni became active in fundraising efforts to preserve and restore Mission San Miguel after it was badly damaged in 2003 by the San Simeon earthquake. “It’s not just my history,” she says. “It’s part of the history of our whole country.”

Nestled in a remote valley, Mission San Miguel was the 16th of 21 missions built between 1769 and 1823 in a chain that stretches 600 miles from San Diego to Sonoma. Each was a day’s journey on horseback from the next along the fabled El Camino Real, which roughly corresponds to today’s U.S. Highway 101. Spanish settlement—its presidios (forts), pueblos (towns) and missions—gave rise to Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose and other urban centers that underlie California’s standing as the nation’s most populous state (37.3 million), home to nearly one out of eight Americans.

For many, the missions lie at the very heart of the state’s cultural identity: cherished symbols of a romanticized heritage; tourist destinations; storehouses of art and archaeological artifacts; inspirational settings for writers, painters and photographers; touchstones of an architectural style synonymous with California itself; and active sites of Catholic worship (in 19 of the 21 churches). “There are few institutions in California that have become imbued with a comparable range and richness of significance,” says Tevvy Ball, author, with Julia G. Costello and the late Edna E. Kimbro, of The California Missions: History, Art, and Preservation , a lavishly illustrated volume published in 2009 by the Getty Conservation Institute.

Not long after Mexico achieved independence from Spain in 1821, the missions were secularized. “Following the gold rush in 1848 and California statehood in 1850,” Ball says, “the missions were largely forgotten and were often viewed as relics of a bygone civilization by the new American arrivals.” Gradually, by the 1870s and ’80s, the landmarks gained popularity. “The romance of the missions was spread by an assortment of boosters and writers, some of whom had a deeply genuine love of the mission heritage,” Ball adds. “And through their efforts over the next few decades, the missions became, particularly in Southern California, the iconic cornerstones of a new regional identity.” The uplifting tale of the Franciscans spreading Christian civilization to grateful primitives—or the “mission myth,” as it has come to be known—omits uncomfortable truths. Yet the power of that traditional narrative largely accounts for the missions’ survival today, Ball says.

What distinguishes mission san miguel is its stark authenticity—no romantic reinventions of history—just the real thing, much as it might have appeared generations ago. Of the 21 missions, San Miguel contains the only surviving original church interior. An extraordinary profusion of colors, materials and designs—including original Native American motifs—has remained largely intact from the time of their creation. Ornamentation is executed in a palette of pale green, blue, pink, lavender, red and yellow pigments. The richly decorated retablo , or altarpiece, includes a painted statue of the mission’s patron saint, gazing skyward at a rendering of the all-seeing eye of God, depicted as floating within a diaphanous cloud. Much of the work was designed by a celebrated Catalan artist, Esteban Munras, and is believed to have been executed by Salinan artisans who had converted to Christianity.

Unlike other missions, where original motifs were modified, painted over or covered with plaster, San Miguel benefited from a kind of benign neglect. “It was in a small rural community and didn’t have a lot of money, so it was left alone—that’s kind of the miracle of San Miguel,” says archaeologist Julia Costello. “The bad news, of course, is that it sits pretty much near an earthquake fault.” Specifically, the San Andreas fault.

On the morning of December 22, 2003, a quake registering a magnitude of 6.5 jolted California’s Central Coast, seriously damaging buildings at Mission San Miguel, including the church and the friars’ living quarters. Experts feared the cracked walls of the sanctuary could collapse, destroying its historic murals.

Overcoming these challenges has required an ongoing collaborative effort among engineers, architects, conservators, archaeologists and other specialists—backed by foundations and other groups seeking to raise more than $12 million. The top priority was seismic strengthening of the mission church, which took two years and drew on cost-effective, minimally invasive techniques pioneered by the Getty Seismic Adobe Project. Anthony Crosby, preservation architect for Mission San Miguel, describes the chief aim of seismic retrofitting in one word: ductility—“the ability of a system to move back and forth, swell and shrink, and return to where it was in the beginning.”

Since the church’s reopening in October 2009, increasing attention has focused on preserving its murals and woodwork. “Walking into the church, you really are transported back,” says wall painting conservator Leslie Rainer, who’s assisting on the project. “It’s the experience you would want to have of the early California missions, which I find lacking in some of the others.” Rainer also appreciates the countryside and the nearby town of Paso Robles, a mecca for food and wine enthusiasts. “There’s an old plaza, a historic hotel and fancy little restaurants,” she says. “Then you go up to San Miguel and you have the mission. It’s all spectacular scenery, valleys and then hills, and it’s green and beautiful at the right time of year,” late autumn into spring.

It has taken more than expert teams to revive Mission San Miguel’s fortunes. Shirley Macagni has brought in Salinan families and friends to help out, too. One day she organized volunteers to make hundreds of new adobe bricks using soil from the mission grounds. “That was a great experience for all of us,” she says. “The children really, really appreciated it, knowing that our ancestors were the ones that built the mission.” She pauses to savor the thought. “Hey, we built this. We made these bricks and we built it. And now look at it. Even the earthquake didn’t knock it down.”

Jamie Katz reports frequently on history, culture and the arts. Photographer Todd Bigelow lives in Los Angeles.

Get the latest Travel & Culture stories in your inbox.

Jamie Katz | | READ MORE

Jamie Katz is a longtime Smithsonian contributor and has held senior editorial positions at People , Vibe , Latina and the award-winning alumni magazine Columbia College Today , which he edited for many years. He was a contributing writer to LIFE: World War II: History’s Greatest Conflict in Pictures , edited by Richard B. Stolley (Bulfinch Press, 2001).

15+ Museums Throughout California for Virtual Field Trips

By: Author Wendy Kennar

Posted on Last updated: April 18, 2024

School is back in session, though it’s very different this year. For many students, field trips are one of their favorite parts of school. Check out these destinations, located throughout the state of California, yet accessible to us all through virtual field trips.

Many of these museums, national parks, and historic locations offer webcams, virtual tours, videos, and much more that can serve as great supplements to your child’s school instruction.

Click over to our Education Guide for a comprehensive overview of Education in Los Angeles.

15+ Museums Throughout California for Virtual Field Trips + Special Digital Offerings

California academy of sciences golden gate park 55 music concourse dr., san francisco, ca 94118.

The incredible California Academy of Sciences offers a range of digital resources for families. You can explore “deep sea, deep space, and everything in between” from the comfort of home. You’ll find live-streaming lectures, exhibits, and even penguins using the Penguin Webcam.

Monterey Bay Aquarium 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940

While there’s nothing quite like being at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a virtual visit is a pretty fine substitute for the time-being. You’ll find lots of fun online activities, free online classes, science activities, as well as live daily animal-cams.

The Tech Interactive 201 S. Market St., San Jose, CA 95113

If you can’t arrange a trip to San Jose right now, it doesn’t mean you can’t still explore The Tech Interactive. Check out their 25-minute virtual field trip which “focuses on how The Tech Interactive connects to super cool tech careers.”  

Find Virtual Field Trips in Los Angeles

San Diego Zoo 2920 Zoo Dr., San Diego, CA 92101

The San Diego Zoo, often considered the #1 Zoo in the world, offers animal cams so families can enjoy the amazing animals. Watch the hippos, the polar bears, tigers, koalas, condors, and more. And, if you’re missing the pandas, you can also access the pre-recorded panda cam archives.  

Oakland Museum of CA 1000 Oak St., Oakland, CA 94607

The Oakland Museum of CA has a special program called “OMCA at Home” with a variety of digital resources available. “Explore art, history, natural sciences, and more from home.” In addition, families can take virtual tours of the museum.

Check out these Virtual Field Trips in all 50 States

Channel islands national park – live ocean webcam ventura, ca 93001.

Families can “experience one of the richest marine environments in the world with a virtual visit to the Ocean Webcam.” Families will marvel at the kelp forest and marine creatures. The Ocean Webcam is “located within the landing cove on Anacapa Island.”  

USS Midway Museum 910 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101

Families can virtually explore the USS Midway Museum. The virtual tour provides an opportunity to “explore America’s favorite aircraft carrier museum’s most popular spaces and exhibits. Listen to the award-winning audio tour, view a naval aircraft gallery and read amazing historical accounts of the USS Midway.”

Yosemite National Park Yosemite Valley, CA

Maybe your family usually takes a summer trip to Yosemite National Park and that didn’t happen this summer. However, through the marvel of technology families can virtually visit Yosemite and explore its wonders.

California State Capitol Museum State Capitol Room B-27 1315 10th St., Sacramento, CA 95814

Families can view “the Capitol’s blended architectural styles from Neo-classical and Renaissance Revival to California’s own architectural elements.” The virtual tour will make you feel as if you’re walking down the Capitol’s halls, observing the works of art,   marveling at the artifacts, and more.  

SeaWorld 500 Sea World Dr., San Diego, CA 92109

SeaWorld@Home is a variety of “fun family activities and entertainment to enjoy at home.” You’ll find coloring pages, crafts, educational resources, games, and the chance to virtually ride one of SeaWorld’s roller coasters!  

Alcatraz Island San Francisco, CA  

Are your kids intrigued by Alcatraz Island? You can virtually explore this landmark, view objects made by infamous inmates, read historic documents, and more.

La Purisima Mission 2295 Purisima Rd., Lompoc, CA 93436

La Purisima Mission was the 11th of the 21st Missions established in California in 1787. “Today, La Purisima Mission State Historic Park is considered the most completely restored mission in California, with then of the original buildings fully restored and furnished.” Virtual tour opportunities include the Church, the Weaving Room, the Visitors Center, and more.  

Read about the Importance of Field Trips

Chumash painted cave state historic park ca-154, santa barbara, ca.

While the Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park is one of the smallest State Parks in the state (a little more than 7 acres), it’s really something quite special to explore. This cave is “one of the best preserved rock art sites in California and of the Chumash people.” Additional background information as well as a virtual tour are available for families to explore.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido, CA

Visiting the animals at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has always felt like going on a mini-safari. Now families can marvel at many of the Safari Park’s animals by watching one of the many live streams. Observe elephants, giraffes, tigers, platypuses (the only ones in the United States), and more.

The Walt Disney Family Museum 104 Montgomery St. in the Presidio, San Francisco, CA 94129

Fans of Walt Disney will be happy to know they can virtually visit The Walt Disney Family Museum. Enjoy a rather-thorough virtual tour of the facility, explore different exhibitions, and more. Additionally, the Museum hosts a variety of different virtual events on different days and at different times including workshops, story times, and discussions.  

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Three Rivers, CA 93271

Explore Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks from the comfort of home. You’ll find video tours showing guided walks along the trails of Redwood Canyon as well as a guided walk around the General Grant Tree Trail. You’ll be in awe as you see these majestic trees and you’ll be eagerly planning your next family trip to see them in person.  

Wendy Kennar is a mother, writer, and former teacher who has lived her entire life in the same Los Angeles zip code. You can read more from Wendy at her website  WendyKennar.com  where she writes about books, boys, and bodies (living with an invisible disability).

Disclaimer:  MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

1020 O St., Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 653-7524 [email protected]

• Virtual Programs

Explore This Section

• Admission, Hours & Tickets
• COVID-19 Guidelines
• FAQs & Accessibility
• Location, Directions & Parking
• Visitor Guide
• Field Trips
• Group Visits
• Celebrate Women Patch Tour
• Dolores Huerta Patch Tour
• Lobby & Mezzanine
• Conference & Classrooms
• Amenities & Policies
• Estimate Request
• Volunteer Open House April 2024
• Registration Form
• Black History Self-Guided Tour
• Docent on Duty
• Museums for All Low-Income Access
• Museums on US® Free Admission
• Fourth Fridays
• Download Blue Star Museums Parent Tool Kit
• Visit NEA Site

The Museum’s online programs bring the benefits of the Museum’s visit for students and Scouts online, eliminating travel costs and hassles of planning a traditional onsite visit.

Online K-12 field trips explore the state’s history, arts and culture from diverse perspectives, increasing empathy, tolerance and critical thinking skills. Choose from 3 programs aligned with History-Social Science, Common Core ELA and Ethnic Studies:

• California’s Journey Virtual Field Trip
• Activism & Democracy Virtual Field Trip
• Time of Remembrance Virtual Field Trip

Additionally, the  “Celebrate Women” Patch Tour  offers Scouts the opportunity to earn a “Celebrate Women” patch on a self-guided and self-service online tour exploring contributions of California women to history.