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Old Santa Rosa Chapel and Cemetery

4.4
·18 reviews·Cambria, United States

A historic glass chapel and cemetery offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cambria's past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon

Golden hour light for photos

CrowdLow
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african american section

Old Santa Rosa Chapel and Cemetery

Best Time

Afternoon

Golden hour light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic glass chapel and cemetery offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cambria's past.

4.4
(18 reviews)

"A lovely little chapel and a cemetery with a variety of headstones both old and new."

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TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walk up is steep! Good footwear is essential for exploring the chapel and cemetery comfortably.

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The path leading to the chapel offers stunning backdrops for memorable photos.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Glass Chapel

The Glass Chapel

Main Chapel

A unique and beautiful glass chapel offering stunning views and a memorable setting for events.

Historic Cemetery

Historic Cemetery

Cemetery behind the chapel

Explore headstones of early Cambria families, a poignant walk through local history.

Picturesque Views

Picturesque Views

Path leading to the chapel

Stunning photo opportunities with the chapel as a backdrop, especially on the path.

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Planning Your Visit

Steep Walk Ahead

Be prepared for a steep incline from Main Street to reach the chapel and cemetery. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring this historic site.

Event Venue & History

While no longer holding regular masses, the Old Santa Rosa Chapel is a popular rental for weddings and events. It's a beautiful glimpse into Cambria's past.

Best Times

When
Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds for peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This chapel is so special 🫶🏽 #california#cemetery#glasschapel#morticiantok#funeralservice
@jasminethemortician
488 likes • 20.9K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walk up is steep! Good footwear is essential for exploring the chapel and cemetery comfortably. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The path leading to the chapel offers stunning backdrops for memorable photos. Reddit

💍 Wedding Inquiries

No longer holds regular masses, but is available for weddings. Contact for rental info. Reddit

🦌 Wildlife Sightings

Keep an eye out for deer that often wander through the grounds! Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walk up is steep! Good footwear is essential for exploring the chapel and cemetery comfortably. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

The path leading to the chapel offers stunning backdrops for memorable photos. Reddit

💍 Wedding Inquiries

No longer holds regular masses, but is available for weddings. Contact for rental info. Reddit

🦌 Wildlife Sightings

Keep an eye out for deer that often wander through the grounds! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(18 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Old Santa Rosa Chapel and Cemetery a beautiful and historic place to explore, especially for its unique glass chapel and the poignant cemetery. It's a popular spot for weddings and offers lovely photo opportunities, though the steep walk up requires comfortable shoes. Some find it a peaceful place for reflection and appreciate the chance to see local wildlife.

"An interesting place to wander and explore after your dinner. It's a steep walk up from Main Street. A lovely little chapel and a cemetery with a variety of headstones both old and new. Our last trip up there included some deer walking around."

Steve Evans

"Where is beautiful there was a little catholic church and cemeteries from the early 1800s Sandra and I had a wonderful time walking around it with Susie"

Chuck Mosel

"We were married in the Old Santa Rosa Chapel in 2001. Venue could not have been more perfect. We had a single violin for processional and recessional and to accompany our vocalist. Our family friend priest performed the ceremony. It was simple, lovely and elegant! Pics walking down the path with the chapel in the background are stunning! Highly recommend!"

Lisa M

What People Like

Beautiful historic chapel
Unique glass architecture
Picturesque cemetery

What People Dislike

Steep walk uphill
Contact info can be hard to find

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The chapel is located on a hill above Main Street in Cambria. Be prepared for a steep walk up from the main street to reach the site. Reddit

Limited parking may be available near the chapel, but it's often easier to park on Main Street and walk up the hill. Reddit

The cemetery is located directly behind the chapel and is easily accessible once you reach the chapel grounds. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to explore the grounds and cemetery is typically free. Reddit

The grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day for exploration and photos. Reddit

Yes, the chapel is a popular venue for weddings and special events. You'll need to contact the owners for rental information. Reddit

No, the Old Santa Rosa Chapel no longer holds regular masses but is available for private events. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The path leading up to the chapel offers beautiful framing, and the interior of the glass chapel itself is very photogenic. Reddit

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. For professional or event photography, it's best to inquire about specific guidelines. Reddit

Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the chapel and cemetery. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families can enjoy a peaceful exploration of the Old Santa Rosa Chapel and Cemetery. The cemetery offers a unique opportunity to discuss local history with children, pointing out old headstones and the names of early settlers. Reddit Keep in mind the steep walk up from Main Street, so ensure children are comfortable with a bit of a climb, or consider carrying younger ones. The open grounds provide space for kids to move around, and sometimes, deer are spotted grazing, which can be an exciting bonus for young visitors. Reddit

💍 Couples & Wedding Planners

The Old Santa Rosa Chapel is an idyllic choice for intimate weddings. Its historic charm, coupled with the unique glass chapel design, offers a romantic and memorable setting. TikTokReddit The picturesque path leading to the chapel is perfect for wedding photos, and the surrounding natural beauty adds to the ambiance. Reddit Couples should research rental availability and contact information well in advance, as direct contact details can sometimes be challenging to find. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Explorers

For those interested in local history, the Old Santa Rosa Chapel and Cemetery is a must-visit. The cemetery serves as a living archive of Cambria's past, with headstones detailing the lives of early residents. Reddit Take your time to read the inscriptions and imagine the lives of those who came before. The chapel itself is a beautiful example of historical architecture, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Cambria's Past

The Old Santa Rosa Chapel and Cemetery is a significant historical landmark in Cambria, California. Established in the early 1800s, it offers a poignant connection to the town's founding families. The cemetery features a variety of headstones, some dating back to the earliest days of the settlement, providing a tangible link to the past. Wandering through the cemetery allows visitors to discover the names of those who shaped Cambria into the community it is today. Reddit

The chapel itself, often referred to as the 'Chapel on the Hill,' is a charming and intimate structure. While it no longer hosts regular religious services, its historical significance and picturesque setting make it a sought-after venue for weddings and special events. The unique glass design of the chapel interior creates a bright and airy atmosphere, making it a memorable location for ceremonies. TikTokReddit

Visitors often remark on the peaceful ambiance of the site, even with its historical weight. The surrounding natural beauty, coupled with the historical elements, creates a unique experience. It's a place where one can reflect on history while enjoying the serene environment. Reddit

Weddings and Events at the Chapel

The Old Santa Rosa Chapel is a highly desirable venue for weddings and private events. Its intimate size and beautiful setting make it a romantic choice for couples. The chapel's unique glass architecture allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a bright and ethereal atmosphere for ceremonies. TikTokReddit

Many couples choose this chapel for its stunning photo opportunities. The path leading up to the chapel, with the building as a backdrop, is particularly popular for wedding portraits. The surrounding landscape also offers picturesque views, adding to the charm of any event held here. Reddit

While the chapel is no longer used for regular masses, it can be rented for various occasions. Those interested in booking the venue should be aware that contact information may require some research, as phone numbers have been reported as out of service in the past. Reddit The Cambria Concerts Unplugged series also utilizes this chapel as a venue for acoustic performances, showcasing its versatility. Reddit

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