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San Francisco, California / Religious sites

Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (Mission Dolores Basilica)

A historic religious site featuring the 1918 Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi and the oldest intact building in San Francisco, the 1791 adobe chapel.

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Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (Mission Dolores Basilica)
missiondolores.org, website_hero_img_missiondolores.org

What are the visiting hours for the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi (Mission Dolores Basilica)?

The basilica, along with the museum, cemetery, and Old Mission, is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

What is the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi known for?

It was the first church designated as a basilica west of the Mississippi River. Additionally, the adjacent adobe chapel is the oldest intact building in San Francisco and the only intact mission chapel in the chain of 21 established under Father Serra.

Are tours available at the basilica?

While guided tours are currently unavailable, self-guided tours are always available and do not require reservations.

What are the Mass times?

Daily Mass is held Monday through Saturday at 8:00 a.m. Sunday Masses are at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m., with a Saturday vigil at 5:00 p.m.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, also known as Mission Dolores Basilica, is a cornerstone of San Francisco's early history. The site is named after Saint Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan Order. The current basilica building was constructed in 1918 and was designated as a minor basilica by Pope Pius XII in 1952. It holds the distinction of being the first church designated as a basilica west of the Mississippi River. Adjacent to the grander basilica is the Mission Dolores adobe chapel, which was completed in 1791. This chapel is recognized as the oldest intact structure in the city of San Francisco. It is the only intact mission chapel remaining from the chain of 21 missions established under the direction of Father Serra. Visitors can explore the grounds, including a museum, gift shop, and cemetery. While guided tours are currently unavailable, self-guided tours are always available for those wishing to explore the history of the Spanish colonial era in California. The site remains an active parish with regular Mass times, including Sunday services in both English and Spanish.

Visitor tips

  • Self-guided tours are available without reservations, making it an easy stop for walkers.
  • The basilica and chapel are open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • If visiting on a Sunday, be aware of scheduled Mass times at 8:00 am, 10:00 am, and 12:00 pm.

Nearby context

Located at the corner of 16th and Dolores Streets in the Mission District, this site provides a quiet historical anchor to the vibrant, colorful neighborhood surrounding it.

Sources

Evidence and links