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 San Diego de Alcalá, Serra Museum was built between 1928-1929 for the purpose of housing and showcasing the collection of the San Diego History Center (then 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.
Serra Museum is available for school tours by appointment only Tuesday to Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. To make a reservation, please call (619) 232-6203 x112. For details of school tours offered, please see School Programs.
Serra Museum is also available for weddings and special events.
Banquets & Weddings at Junípero Serra Museum
Junípero Serra Museum, located in Presidio Park, is an ideal setting for a stunning and upscale event. The striking mission-style building, constructed in 1929 is perched atop a hill above San Diego’s historic Old Town. The museum boasts a spectacular view overlooking the City and the Pacific Ocean and offers a partially covered loggia for an outdoor event and an interior gallery for a more intimate setting.
