Visiting San Xavier del Bac Mission Sixty Years Later

San Xavier del Bac Mission, located just a short drive from Tucson in Arizona, was constructed between 1783 and 1797. The mission is built with traditional Spanish Colonial and Mexican Baroque architecture and is considered the finest in the United States. Visitors can marvel at the mission’s beautiful frescos, sculptures, and elaborate motifs. It attracts thousands of visitors and pilgrims yearly and is still run by the Franciscans.

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Visiting San Xavier del Bac Mission

Known as the “white dove in the desert,” people travel from far and wide to see the intricate artwork, learn about the history, and appreciate the beauty of the mission. Guided tours are available from Monday to Friday, at 9:15 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. There’s no admission or parking fee, but donations are appreciated. Note that drones aren’t allowed to fly around the mission, but visitors are welcome to bring their dogs on the grounds (although they aren’t allowed inside the buildings).

Grotto Hill

On the Tohono O’odham Nation, Grotto Hill is east of the Mission San Xavier del Bac. The hill is recognized for the white cross erected on its peak and a small religious shrine halfway up the walking trail. A quarter-mile path meanders around the hill, providing a panoramic view of the area and the mountain ranges near Tucson.

Coyote Kitchen and Gift Shop

You’ll find a small complex housing The Coyote Kitchen and Gift Shop in the main parking area. This establishment is owned and run by Native American workers on the Tohono O’odham reservation. Visitors can buy an array of Native American-made items, including basketry, pottery, jewelry, religious merchandise, crystals, and sage.

Traditional Fry Bread

Every day, members of the Tohono O’odham Nation run a fry bread operation in the parking lot, where tourists can purchase this traditional Native American dish. Fry bread is deep-fried in oil. It is made from flour, water, and salt and served plain or with a cheese topping. Fry bread vendors usually set up their stands by 11:00 AM.

Getting to San Xavier del Bac Mission

San Xavier del Bac Mission, a National Historic Landmark, is at 1950 W. San Xavier Rd., Tucson, AZ. San Xavier is an active Catholic parish and may be closed briefly during church services. Gift Shop is closed on Christmas Day & Easter Sunday. Website.

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