How To Spend A Day in Santa Barbara?

As an international tourist, or even a local resident of the beautiful Central California city of Santa Barbara, you’ll quickly discover that there’s plenty of things to do and see. This guide provides a great snapshot of the very best things to do and places to visit while you’re here. Whether you’re wanting to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine, take in the iconic Spanish architecture, or simply relax on the stunning beaches, Santa Barbara has something for everyone.

Visit The Mission

Founded in 1786, the Santa Barbara Mission is one of the most recognized structures in the city. It’s known for its iconic dome-capped towers and striking pink hue which stands out against surrounding hills and cliffs. The mission overlooks Santa Barbara Harbor on the Pacific Coast and is home to a museum and mausoleum, with both specializing in the area’s historical and colonial contributions from California’s Spanish times. You can explore the art-filled chapel and numerous courtyards, with an ornate fountain positioned in the middle. You’ll also find the Rose Garden beyond the mission walls. All in all, the Santa Barbara Mission is a great place to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history.

Experience Old Town Santa Barbara

Old Town Santa Barbara is known for its colonial architecture, archetypal archways, quaint cobblestone streets, iconic fountains and its renowned state street, lined with vintage stores and various eateries. There are plenty of shops and boutiques selling clothing, jewelry, art and craft items throughout Old Town. Don’t miss a cup of coffee from one of the many coffeehouses found here; it’s sure to keep you energized for your whole day. Additionally, you could have a delicious lunch or dinner at any one of the excellent restaurants found along State Street; some of which offer great views of nearby mountains and beaches such as Leadbetter Beach and Stearns Wharf.

Visit The Beach

Santa Barbara is home to some amazing beaches. Leadbetter Beach is one of the most popular spots in Santa Barbara, making it an ideal place to relax and watch some local surfers take on the waves. Stearns Wharf provides an excellent vantage point to take in the stunning coastal views while admiring some unique architecture featuring a pier where world-renowned street performers delight tourists and locals alike. East Beach is located just east of Robert Lodming Municipal Airport and has paved walkways suitable for cycling and rolling. Visiting any one of these beaches will provide plenty of opportunities to admire the gorgeous coastal views of Santa Barbara while relaxing in its natural beauty.

Catch A Unique Performance

The city of Santa Barbara also offers some great opportunities for catching unique performances or events. The Granada Theatre hosts various concerts, musical performances and comedians throughout the year including a popular summer series called “Sings Like Hell”. The Arlington Theatre is another popular venue for catching ballets, Broadway shows and various other theatrical performances. For those looking for smaller scale performances such as plays or cabaret shows, there are plenty of venues all around town from small theatres to lecture halls and local pubs.

Enjoy Some Local Cuisine

For those that love good food, Santa Barbara offers a diverse range of locally-sourced, traditional cuisine as well as innovative gourmet restaurant dishes. You can find everything from Mexican tacos to fresh seafood and world class wines. Look out for some of the popular farm-to-table restaurants for some delicious dishes that include locally sourced ingredients or explore some of the popular seafood restaurants such as Eladio’s that offer excellent dishes with stunning sunset views from nearby beaches over the Pacific Ocean. Whichever restaurant you choose, you can be sure that you’ll enjoy some great food without burning a hole in your pocket.

Whether you’re visiting Santa Barbara for a few days or calling it home temporary or permanently, it’s important to find ways to experience this unique and vibrant city. From exploring its historical landmarks to enjoying its delicious cuisine and catching some unique performances or events, there’s plenty here to keep you busy during your day in Santa Barbara. For more information about things to do here, visit santabarbaraca.com, it’s an excellent resource for planning your day out in Santa Barbara!

An Insider’s Guide: How To Spend A Day in Santa Barbara

Sometimes, the best travel experiences come from exploring off the beaten path and discovering hidden gems that are not part of the typical tourist itinerary. Santa Barbara, California, offers plenty of opportunities for such adventures. From historical sites and local cuisine to cultural experiences and natural wonders, there’s something for everyone to explore here.

Discovering Local Attractions

While Santa Barbara is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic mountains, there’s more to this city than meets the eye. One of the best-kept secrets of the city is the Mission Santa Barbara. This Spanish mission is a historical landmark that dates back to the late 18th century and is a must-visit for those interested in the region’s history and architecture.

Another hidden gem in the city is the Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens. This idyllic park is home to over 75 species of plants and features a picturesque pond. A stroll through the lush greenery is a lovely way to spend a few hours.

Fine Dining and Local Cuisine

Santa Barbara offers a diverse food scene that will satisfy any palate. One local favorite is La Super-Rica Taqueria, a humble taco stand where Julia Child used to order her favorite tacos. The menu boasts authentic Mexican dishes made with fresh ingredients.

Another must-visit is the Santa Barbara Public Market, where you can indulge in fresh seafood, artisanal cheese, and a wide range of international cuisine. Sample a few local wines and beer while feasting on delicious offerings from some of the city’s best chefs.

Cultural Experiences

Santa Barbara is a hub of the arts, music, and cultural events throughout the year. One popular annual event is the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which draws international filmmakers to showcase their latest works.

The city is also home to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, which houses a collection of American, Asian, and European works from the classical to contemporary. The museum curates interesting exhibitions throughout the year, making each visit unique.

Uncovering Local History

Santa Barbara is rich in history, and there are many fascinating stories to uncover. One such story is the tale of the infamous pirate, Hippolyte Bouchard. In 1818, this French privateer sailed into Santa Barbara and captured the town for a brief period, becoming the only foreign invader ever to do so.

Another historical site of interest is the Old Mission Santa Barbara, which played a significant role in the cultural and economic development of the region. Learn about the lives and struggles of the indigenous Chumash people who lived in this area, and how they interacted with the Spanish colonizers.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and unforgettable experience, try horseback riding along the scenic countryside of Santa Barbara. Several ranches provide guided tours to explore the rolling hills, providing excellent views of the Pacific coastline.

Another unique adventure is a seaplane flight that takes you above the city and gives you a different view of Santa Barbara’s stunning beauty.

Whether you’re looking for history, culture, food, or adventure, there’s no shortage of attractions in Santa Barbara. Escape the usual tourist spots and explore the hidden gems that this city has to offer.