Junipero Serra Museum

Location: 2727 Presidio Drive
Old Town Village, Old Town San Diego, CA (map)
When: Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 5pm
(Check to see if musuem is open to public)
Phone: (619) 232-6203
More info: Website

Museum Highlights

The Junípero Serra Museum, in Presidio Park, is one of the most familiar landmarks in San Diego. As a major symbol of the city, it stands atop the hill recognized as the site where California began.

It was here in 1769 that a Spanish Franciscan missionary, Father Junípero Serra, with a group of soldiers led by Gaspar de Portolá, established Alta California’s first mission and presidio (fort).

Often confused for the Mission, the Serra Museum was built between 1928-1929 for the purpose of housing and showcasing the collection of the San Diego Historical Society, which was founded in 1928.

The structure was designed by architect, William Templeton Johnson, using Spanish Revival architecture, to resemble the early missions that once dominated the landscape of Southern California.

Artifacts and Exhibits

The Serra Museum features exhibits on San Diego history and the life of the Franciscan monk from Spain for whom the museum is named and who played an important role in the Spanish colonization of California in the 1700s.

The museum holds artifacts from the presidio excavation, temporary and permanent exhibits, l6th-18th century Spanish furniture.

Tours and Events

Private Events, Special Bookings, Weddings: Operated by the San Diego Historical Society. For details, call (619) 232-6203 ext 109.

School Tours: By appointment only, Tuesday to Thursday, 9:30am to 11:30am. To make a reservation, please call (619) 232-6203 x112. For details of school tours offered, please see School Programs.