Mission San Xavier del Bac Tours

Mission San Xavier del Bac showing a church or cathedral and heritage architecture
Mission San Xavier del Bac showing hiking or walking, desert views and religious aspects
Mission San Xavier del Bac showing tranquil scenes, a statue or sculpture and a church or cathedral
Mission San Xavier del Bac which includes heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
Mission San Xavier del Bac which includes heritage architecture and a church or cathedral


One of Tucson’s most historic sites is a 400-year-old church set in the desert and known for its architecture and collection of religious art.

Founded by a Jesuit priest in 1692, Mission San Xavier del Bac is believed to be the oldest European-style building in Tucson. The carved facade and two brilliant white towers of this active Roman Catholic church are a stark contrast to the surrounding hills and desert. Inside the church are dozens of paintings, frescoes, carvings, statues and ornaments.

The first thing that captures your attention after passing through the entrance is the colossal altar piece. Move closer to study the intricate carvings that tell the biblical story of creation. Look to the left and you’ll see a glass sarcophagus containing a statue of St. Francis Xavier, in whose honor the church was built. Visitors pin small metal symbols to the effigy’s cloth covering, representing the miracles they are praying for.

Take your time to appreciate the artwork. Every wall is covered with paintings, columns are decorated with angel sculptures and statues of saints are tucked away in niches. Note the repeating theme of the shell in pictures, window treatments and on the facade and figurines. The shell has has been a symbol of Christian pilgrimage for hundreds of years.

During your visit you may notice some reconstruction work. An earthquake and lightning strikes in previous centuries have weakened parts of the structure. Renovations are ongoing when funds are available.

After leaving the church, learn more about its history by visiting the small museum next door. See religious artifacts and historic mementos such as the oldest known photograph of Mission San Xavier del Bac, dating to the early 1870s. Watch the 20-minute video that covers the church’s past and the restoration work.

Mission San Xavier del Bac is open daily from early morning until late afternoon. Located in the Santa Cruz Valley, the church is 12 miles (19 kilometers) south of downtown Tucson, just off the interstate highway. Admission and on-site car parking are free.

Plan a trip to see Mission San Xavier del Bac

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WorldMark Rancho Vistoso
Casino Del Sol Resort
The Blenman House Inn

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Best Lodging Options Near Mission San Xavier del Bac

Beautiful 4bedroom and heated pool, great place for family gatherings!

Beautiful 4bedroom and heated pool, great place for family gatherings!

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Beautiful 4bedroom and heated pool, great place for family gatherings!
3-bedroom house in charming Tucson

3-bedroom house in charming Tucson

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Desert Diamond Casino & Hotel

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La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tucson Airport

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tucson Airport

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Casa Valencia

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Spacious Tucson Vacation Rental: Incredible Views!

Spacious Tucson Vacation Rental: Incredible Views!

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Charming 3-bedroom house in wonderful Tucson with stunning views all around

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Charming 3-bedroom house in wonderful Tucson with stunning views all around
Southwest Tucson Gateway

Southwest Tucson Gateway

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Southwest Tucson Gateway
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Mission San Xavier del Bac

At Mission San Xavier del Bac, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including running and sports in the surrounding area. Explore the rich history of the mission, take part in Artezani tours, and find comfortable accommodations nearby. Additionally, the area offers shopping venues for tourists looking to pick up unique souvenirs and local crafts, making it a well-rounded destination for both culture and recreation.

Food and drinks

Visit Macaria Mezcaleria for unique mezcal cocktails and authentic Mexican flavors. Cozy Cafe offers delicious breakfast options, while Bodega Tavern serves a mix of local brews and comfort food. For a fine dining experience, try PY Steakhouse, and don’t miss the fresh offerings at Maynards Market.

Shopping

For souvenirs near Mission San Xavier del Bac, visit Zocalo, located 9 miles away, offering unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, Tucson Mall, 13 miles away, features a variety of stores and entertainment options, while FoodInRoot Farmers' Markets, also 13 miles away, offers local products in a vibrant setting.

Recreation

Kino Sports Complex offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, located 6 miles from Mission San Xavier del Bac. For golf lovers, Starr Pass Golf Club, 7 miles away, provides a scenic outdoor experience. Tucson Mountain Park, 9 miles away, is perfect for relaxation and wellness amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Tucson International Raceway, located 6 miles from Mission San Xavier del Bac, where you can immerse yourself in the excitement of motor racing. For a scenic adventure, hike the Cactus Garden Trail, 9 miles away, and enjoy the stunning outdoor landscape. Alternatively, tackle the climbing routes at Rocks and Ropes, situated 8 miles from the mission.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Mission San Xavier del Bac with a visit to Casino del Sol for exciting gaming and romantic vibes. For a cultural evening, catch a show at Rialto Theatre, or enjoy craft brews and a relaxed atmosphere at Nimbus Brewing Company.

Find the best attractions near Mission San Xavier del Bac

At Mission San Xavier del Bac in Tucson, Arizona, visitors can explore a rich blend of culture and history, highlighted by the ornate facade and stunning mission architecture. Nearby attractions include national parks and canyons, perfect for outdoor adventures and family experiences. Don't miss the chance to learn about the mission’s namesake, San Francisco Javier, and the connections to Querétaro City, enriching your travel experience around this beautiful site.

  • University of Arizona: Explore the vibrant campus of the University of Arizona, just 9 miles from Mission San Xavier del Bac. With its modern architecture and lively atmosphere, it's an excellent spot for enjoying art exhibits, botanical gardens, and engaging educational experiences.
  • Tucson Convention Center: Located 8 miles away, the Tucson Convention Center is a hub for events and conferences. Immerse yourself in the business vibe while attending various shows, concerts, and community gatherings held in this versatile venue.
  • Pima Air and Space Museum: Experience the wonders of aviation at the Pima Air and Space Museum, 9 miles from Mission San Xavier del Bac. This cultural gem showcases an extensive collection of aircraft and offers fascinating insights into aviation history.

Best time to go to Mission San Xavier del Bac

Visitor numbers around Mission San Xavier del Bac is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Mission San Xavier del Bac can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Mission San Xavier del Bac falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Mission San Xavier del Bac falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
February54.3°F (12.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March61.5°F (16.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April68.9°F (20.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May75.9°F (24.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June86.2°F (30.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July87.1°F (30.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August86.2°F (30.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
September81.7°F (27.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October71.6°F (22.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
December51.6°F (10.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mission San Xavier del Bac

To save money on your trip to Mission San Xavier del Bac, take advantage of the free entry and explore nearby attractions like Tucson Spectrum and Tucson Mountain Park. Consider visiting during the cheaper months of June, July, or December for lower accommodation rates. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and consider eco-certified options. For additional savings, bundle your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia package deals, and join their One Key membership for exclusive discounts and rewards on future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mission San Xavier del Bac are June to July and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase available sustainable and eco-friendly hotels. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Mission San Xavier del Bac with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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