The hype
Guests are blown away by the beauty and history but often disappointed by the dated bathrooms and 'hit or miss' service.
The Mission Inn Hotel And Spa
$180-350/ night
Book this if You want to sleep in a living museum that feels like a Spanish castle, and you care more about architecture and history than modern soundproofing.
Why People Love It
- Stunning Spanish Mission-style architecture with flying buttresses and domes
- The massive Festival of Lights holiday display (Nov-Jan)
- Kelly's Spa is consistently rated as a top-tier retreat
Quick Take: It’s a breathtaking historic landmark that rests on its laurels—expect magical vibes but inconsistent service and thin walls.
Reviewed by @Blondyinsider: I couldn't believe this place is in California. Walking through the courtyard felt like a European trip. The holiday lights at night were the highlight of my stay—it’s pure magic. Definitely book a balcony room if you can!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
If you visit during the Festival of Lights, expect massive crowds, noise until late, and chaotic parking—it's a spectacle, not a relaxing getaway.
- You are a history buff or architecture nerd
- You want a romantic, fairy-tale wedding venue vibe
- You believe ghosts are real and want to hunt for them
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Generally good daily service, though some reviews cite missed dust in corners or under beds.
- Bathroom hygiene: Hit or miss. Recent complaints (late 2024) mention mildew/mold in grout and aging fixtures in some rooms.
- Maintenance: The historic nature means wear and tear is visible—peeling paint or slow drains are occasional complaints.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality; clean but not ultra-luxury plush.
- Odors & scents: Usually fresh, but some older rooms have a lingering 'musty' or 'old building' smell.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Street noise from Main Street pedestrian mall
- Live music/bands during events and festivals
- Planes overhead (flight path)
- Thin walls between connecting rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Festival of Lights' (Nov-Jan) attracts over 500,000 visitors; book months in advance or avoid if you hate crowds.
- There is no free parking; self-parking is ~$30 and valet is ~$40.
- Breakfast is NOT included and the buffet is pricey ($25+ per person).
What to pack
- Earplugs or a white noise machine (essential)
- Walking shoes for exploring the massive hotel grounds and downtown
- A sweater for evening dining on the outdoor patios
Room Genie
Best picks
- Mission Rooms (top floor) for best views and relative seclusion
- Raincross Rooms for a quieter, more relaxing ambiance
- Glenwood Rooms for spacious layouts and courtyard views
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms facing the Main Street Pedestrian Mall (noise trap)
- 3rd-floor rooms near the bandstand during Festival of Lights
- Rooms near the elevator banks (noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper and would love to request a quiet room on a higher floor, specifically a Raincross or Mission room facing the inner courtyards, away from Main Street and the pedestrian mall.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the hotel really haunted?
Many guests and staff claim yes. Room 407 and the Alice Miller room (4th floor) are the hotspots for 'cold spots' and apparitions.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, expect to pay around $25-$40 per night, which covers gym access, pool use, and in-room coffee.
Can I bring my dog?
No. The Mission Inn has a strict no-pet policy, allowing only ADA service animals.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the outdoor pool is heated and open year-round, surrounded by palm trees and historic architecture.
Do I need reservations for the restaurants?
Absolutely. Duane's Prime Steaks and Las Campanas are very popular, especially on weekends and during holidays.
What is the parking situation?
Valet is available for ~$40/night. Self-parking is available in a nearby garage for ~$30/night.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Request a free docent-led tour of the hotel to access areas usually closed to the public.
- ✨
The 'Presidential Lounge' has a secret door that was used during Prohibition.
- ✨
Visit the hotel museum (if open) to see artifacts from the founder's world travels.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'catacombs' underneath the hotel are real but mostly off-limits to guests.
💡Some 'courtyard view' rooms actually look at a wall or HVAC units—check the specific view.
💡The elevators can be incredibly slow and small, fitting only a few people and luggage.
💡Room service hours are limited and not 24/7.
💡The 'gym' is functional but small for a hotel of this size.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Mission Inn Hotel And Spa is located and what's nearby.