Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara has a number of sights that are historically and culturally significant.  They are appropriate for both families and individuals of all ages.

Our city was shaped by its Spanish past and reflects that in its architecture.  There has been a strong commitment to keeping Santa Barbara beautiful.  It makes this city very easy on the eye!

The Mission
This is where it all began for Santa Barbara.  The Santa Barbara mission is one of the most beautiful in the state and offers real historic insight.  Many events are scheduled at the Mission and it continues to be a focal point of cultural and religious activity.

The Waterfront
The heart of Santa Barbara beauty and a great source of entertainment. You'll find three beaches, several excellent restaurants, a wharf, a museum, a harbor and a skate park.  If you are visiting Santa Barbara, this is an absolute must-see.

The Courthouse
This gorgeous but functional structure is just 75 years old but it has the look and feel of a 200 year old Spanish Colonial.  If you are planning to visit, make a point of going to the top of the tower - the view is spectacular. 

Santa Barbara Zoo
One of the nation's best small zoos, this is a visit for the entire family.  The Zoo was developed like a park, with plenty of picnic and open areas.  The animals are easily viewed and the setting is intimate.  They say it's a small zoo but there are 600 animals!

Santa Barbara Museum of Art
This wonderful museum boasts an excellent combination of permanent and special exhibits.  Although it's not an enormous museum (you can see it all in about 90 minutes), it has an impressive permanent collection of Asian art that is a must-see.

El Presidio State Historic Park
One of the most significant historical buildings in Santa Barbara, El Presidio has been reconstructed faithfully based on historic and archeological evidence.  It combines great beauty and real function, as it is the home for many events throughout the year. 

Casa de La Guerra
Another must-see.  From the outside you'd never really know that this was a wonderful  museum with some fabulous vignettes.  Since it was initially built (~1817), the Casa has been the center of civic, political and even social affairs.

The Museum of Natural History
One of the many surprise finds, this excellent museum displays the flora and fauna of Santa Barbara and the Channel Islands.  There is also an extensive section on Prehistoric Native American life.

Santa Barbara Historical Society Museum
This museum features both permanent and changing exhibits that share Santa Barbara's colorful past from the Native American age to modern times. 

The Maritime Museum
This is a fascinating small museum located right on the waterfront.  It is filled with artifacts, displays and history all about the impact of the sea on the local inhabitants ranging from the Chumash to present times.

Stow House & Railroad Museum
Built by a prominent ranching family in 1873, Stow House is a rambling two story house and the oldest frame house in the Goleta Valley. The Railroad Museum offers antique railroad artifacts and photographs, and hands-on exhibits are shown in the agency office and the passenger waiting room.