San Xavier del Bac Mission
3 Stars | "White Dove of the Desert"
Overview
Tier Rating: 3 STARS (Good Addition)
Kid Appeal: 2/5 stars
"The White Dove of the Desert" - a stunning 18th-century Spanish colonial mission. Active Catholic church on the Tohono O'odham reservation. Beautiful architecture and art.
Key Details
- Address: 1950 W San Xavier Rd
- Hours: 9 AM - 4 PM daily
- Tours: Free docent tours Mon-Sat, 9:15 AM - 12:15 PM (hourly)
- Cost: FREE (donations welcome)
- Time Needed: 30-60 minutes
- Distance from Rillito Park: 12 miles, 20-25 min
What Kids Will Love
- Lighting a candle (make a donation)
- Climbing "Grotto Hill" next door (Great sunset spot!)
- Fry bread with honey!
Pro Tips
- Quick stop - doesn't need to be a half-day
- Pairs well with another activity
- Morning visit to catch free docent tour
Useful Links
Nearby Attractions
Sentinel Peak
City viewpoint nearby
Trail Dust Town
Old West theme park
Nearby Restaurants
La Reyna Hot Dogs
Classic South 12th hot dogs
El Guero Canelo
Sonoran hot dogs nearby (12th Ave)