The de Saisset Museum offers free guided tours of the California Stories from Thámien to Santa Clara exhibition, Mission Santa Clara de Asís, and the nearby Mission Gardens. Our team of trained docents uses a variety of interactive methods to bring the history of Santa Clara Valley alive. Designed to complement California's state-mandated curriculum, the tour is geared primarily toward 4th grade school groups who are studying California mission history; the tour can be adapted to other age groups, upon request and pending availability.
Tours are offered free of charge, but a donation of $2 per person is encouraged. Advanced reservations are required. Requests are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Each tour includes an opportunity to view historic artworks and artifacts in the museum's permanent California History exhibition.
At the Touching Cart tour goers have a chance to interact with real and replica objects from California's past.
A visit to historic Mission Santa Clara de Asís is always a highlight of the tour.
When possible, tour groups are treated to a visit to the St. Francis Chapel, a space that is generally unavailable for public visitation.
What to Expect on a Tour
Curious about what our California History Docent Tours entail? Learn the essentials—who, what, when, where, and how much (hint: free!)—and find out more about the structure and content of the tours.
Tour Request
Learn about our booking process and submit a request for a tour.
Tour Prep
As your tour date approaches, we ask that each group take a couple of steps to prepare, including designating chaperones and creating nametags. Find out everything you need to know in advance of your tour—from parking to taking photos to staying for lunch.
Meet the Docents
The de Saisset is lucky to have a committed group of volunteer California History Docents leading our tours. Find out who they are and why they love giving tours!