Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Santa Barbara, California. #Top Attractions

Spread the love!

See the wonders of Santa Barbara, California. Look at our recommended travel activities and attractions in Santa Barbara, California, to get the most out of your time there. Check out the list of the best things to do in Santa Barbara, California, and places to go in Santa Barbara, California, below. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3.0 startup in the tourism industry that aims to disrupt the industry as a whole by utilizing Web 3.0 technologies.

Arroyo Burro Beach Park

Arroyo Burro Beach Park, Santa Barbara, California
Arroyo Burro Beach Park, Santa Barbara, California / Doc Searls / Flickr

Go to Arroyo Burro Beach Park and enjoy a variety of water activities!

This is one of Santa Barbara’s most family-friendly beaches.

It has calm surf, lifeguards in season, plenty of picnic tables, and a fantastic beach restaurant.

Tall cliffs with parkland encircle this stretch of shore.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Los Angeles is “Hendry’s Beach” at Arroyo Burro County State Beach, located just north of the Douglas Family Preservation.

The park has a long history, dating back to 1947 when the initial six acres were purchased to establish a garden.

Other enjoyable activities include bird watching and horseback riding on the park’s numerous pathways.

The Arroyo Burro Beach Park is a Santa Barbara county park located on Cliff Drive, south of Elings Park.

This Santa Barbara county beach is completely dog-friendly, so you can bring your dog buddies along to enjoy the scenery with you!

Address: 2981 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA

Botanic Garden

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, California
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, California / Konrad Summers / Flickr

Do you want to get some fresh air? Visit the lovely Santa Botanic Garden!

Visiting the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is surely one of the must-do activities for nature lovers.

There are 78 acres of lush green waiting for you, with over 1,000 types of animals that are either endemic to the area or highly unusual.

The Garden’s mission is to showcase native California plants in their natural habitat.

More than 5.5 kilometers of trails wind through the pine-scented forest.

With a focus on native species, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is one of California’s most popular botanical gardens.

In the spring, the wildflower meadow is ablaze with bright orange California poppies and many colorful wildflowers.

Other amenities at the site include the Blakesley Library, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Herbarium, and the Garden Shop & Garden Growers Retail Nursery.

If you want calmness in nature, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden should be on your list of places to visit.

Address: Santa Barbara, California, 1212 Mission Canyon Road

Cold Spring Tavern

Cold Spring Tavern is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

Weekends at Cold Spring Tavern are fun!

This is a must-see restaurant if you’re in Santa Barbara or on your route to the Santa Ynez wines.

This ancient stagecoach station, located in the Santa Ynez Mountains about 15 minutes outside of Santa Barbara, offers history, wonderful food, cold beer, and pleasant staff.

It was originally established in 1886 as a stagecoach stop and as a way station connecting Santa Barbara, California, to other nearby and distant places.

A Western saloon nestled in the foothills serves American cuisine, local wine, and American cuisine, which includes a wild game.

This little-known feature of Santa Barbara’s history has been preserved.

A popular hiking destination just outside of Santa Barbara.

Because, as if by magic, time remains still here, you can appreciate the natural ambiance of the Old West.

You can enjoy musical performances in the tavern, stroll through the gardens to learn more about Santa Barbara’s history, or simply stop by for some excellent food and drinks.

Address: 5995 Stagecoach Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

Discover California on your next vacation! Discover more using our travel guides to Temecula and Newport Beach. See through the fascinating things to do in Temecula, California and the best things to do in Newport Beach, California!

County Courthouse

County Courthouse is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

The Santa Barbara County Courthouse, a historical treasure and monument, is a must-see for visitors to this beloved Californian city.

It is a National Historic Landmark completed in 1929 after being built in the aftermath of a 1925 earthquake.

Explore the magnificent mural room to learn more about the area’s history, or walk outside the courthouse to find a sunken garden filled with plants from over 25 countries.

It is one of the outstanding examples of intriguing Colonial and Spanish Revival architecture in the entire region.

The stunning white structure is crowned by a red-tiled roof and extensively cultivated grounds filled with palm trees and other vegetation.

This structure features a sunken garden, a magnificent main entrance, and a clock tower with an arched viewing gallery.

There are many reasons to go here in Santa Barbara, but two stand out: the beautiful architecture and the breathtaking city views that can be had from its clock tower.

This eye-catching landmark occupies an entire city block in downtown Santa Barbara and exemplifies the Spanish-Colonial Revival style.

Address: 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA

East Beach

East-Beach-Santa-Barbara-California
East-Beach-Santa-Barbara-California / Travolution360 / Flickr

Escape the ordinary. Go to East Beach!

The East Beach in Santa Barbara is perhaps the least crowded of the three main beaches.

Because of its location, it is less likely to be packed like sardines when you want to soak up some rays.

Volleyball competitions are held at East Beach every year, making it a popular tourist destination for volleyball fans all over the world.

East Beach is also home to the Gym and Cabrillo Bathhouse.

It’s a wide area of sand east of Stearns Wharf, with the Cabrillo Boulevard bicycle and walking route running alongside, surrounded by extraordinarily tall palms.

This massive rainbow sculpture is located near East Beach. You’re likely to witness some Instagrammers jumping, strolling, or dancing their way across it.

Another Instagram-worthy location is the Paseo Nuevo shopping center’s tiled stairway.

Even more, East Beach is located among other Santa Barbara attractions!

The chromatic gate is for you if you want to have the perfect Instagram.

East Beach is one of the sandy beaches in Santa Barbara that you must visit.

Address: Santa Barbara, California 93108-2880, United States, 1400 E Cabrillo Boulevard

Planning on a visit to California for your holiday? If you’re looking for unique travel ideas, see our guides for Pismo Beach and Big Bear Lake! Check also the captivating things to do in Pismo Beach, California and the best things to do in Big Bear Lake, California!

El Presidio de Santa Bárbara

El Presidio de Santa Bárbara, California
El Presidio de Santa Bárbara, California /Thank You / Flickr

The Santa Barbara Presidio is a well-known historical attraction in Santa Barbara.

There’s a fascinating history to be found in this fortified military colony founded in 1782 by Spaniards.

In 1958, the Presidio was designated a California Historic Property and added to the National Historic Landmark in 1973.

Only El Cuartel and the Caedo Adobe are made out of the fort’s adobe bricks.

The tours begin at the tourist center, which features exhibits on the history of the Presidio.

There’s also a historic garden with a wide variety of flora from the past.

Visit Casa del Herrero (House of the Blacksmith) in Santa Barbara for more classic architecture. 

It is one of America’s outstanding examples of Spanish Revival architecture.

In the early twentieth century, you could learn about life in Santa Barbara by visiting the house, workshop, and gardens.

If you want to explore on your own, you can take a tour here in El Presidio that will teach you some intriguing facts about the building’s history.

Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States, 123 E Canon Perdido St

Wondering where to go this holiday? Try California. You have to travel to San Luis Obispo and Berkeley. You should not miss out on the fun. Check out on best things to do in San Luis Obispo, California, and the best things to do in Berkeley, California.

Funk Zone

Funk Zone is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

The Funk Zone is one of the top attractions in California.

If you’re looking for a good time while visiting Santa Barbara, California, the Funk Zone is the place to be!

This intriguing location was once an industrial district. Still, artists began to move in and transformed it into a bustling, artistic, and dynamic hipster area.

Murals adorn the walls of this Santa Barbara neighborhood, and if you visit at night, you’ll find plenty of great alcoholic beverages, creative exhibitions, and more.

In the city’s artsy Funk Zone, stop at three different local cafes, a microbrewery, two wineries, and a distillery for some excellent food and drink.

You’ll learn how to take high-quality food photography using anything from a smartphone to a high-end digital SLR as you eat and drink.

Restored factories and buildings covered with graffiti paintings and contemporary works of art create the ambiance for this bustling district of downtown.

It is an excellent place for you to complete your day!

Looking for a one-of-a-kind present or vintage treasure? You’ll most likely find what you’re looking for in one of their local boutiques.

Address: Yanonali Street, Santa Barbara, California 93101, USA

Knapp’s Castle

Knapp's Castlem, Santa Barbara, California
Knapp’s Castlem, Santa Barbara, California / Damian Gadal / Flickr

Knapp’s Castle is one of the best places to visit in California.

Visit Knapp’s Castle if you want panoramic views and only a mile round trip.

These are the ruins of a mansion erected in 1918 by George Knapp, the founder of Union Carbide Chemicals.

The home remained standing until 1945 when it was destroyed by a forest fire and was never rebuilt.

The fire destroyed many of the most opulent rooms in the house, including an organ room, an observatory, and multiple bedrooms.

In fact, after the fire, all that was left of the house was its stone skeleton.

Since then, the house has been designated as a Santa Barbara monument. While it is still privately held, it cannot be developed or renovated.

Photographers also appreciate capturing creepy and mournful images of the once-great house.

There is no need for a permit to view the ruins.

You may need to show a National Forest Adventure Pass to park a vehicle at the trailhead.

Take advantage of the opportunity to hike to Knapp’s Castle!

Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

Arranging a trip to California? Discover more using our travel guides to Malibu and Fresno. See through the fascinating things to do in Malibu, California, and the best things to do in Fresno, California!

Maritime Museum

Maritime Museum is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is a must-see in California.

Come and explore 13,000 years of human history in the Santa Barbara Channel with kid-friendly activities, displays, events, and talks for the entire family.

Its mission is to preserve the intriguing and rich history of the Santa Barbara coast through various exhibits, artifacts, and even events.

Found in the Santa Barbara Harbor.

The Museum also provides educational opportunities for children and adults to learn about local maritime history.

Exceptional educational opportunities can help kids develop essential teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

You can also take guided tours of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, which will give you additional knowledge and entertaining tidbits.

The Museum has an area of 8,000 square feet.

This sea-themed Museum appeals to children with scavenger hunts, a functioning periscope, and other interactive displays.

From the top-floor viewing platform, photographers may get stunning images of the port and city.

It’s a good time for the whole family to visit this Museum! So don’t be terrified to go out and explore the city of Santa Barbara.

Address: Santa Barbara, California, 113 Harbor Way

Planning to travel to California? Hop over to the best travel guides for Solvang and Pasadena. Check out the best things to do in Solvang, California and the best things to do in Pasadena, California.

Moreton Bay Fig Tree

Moreton Bay Fig Tree is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

Don’t miss out on this beautiful nature! Moreton Bay Fig Tree is a must-visit

The Moreton Bay Fig Tree is one of Santa Barbara’s lesser-known attractions that you may visit for free at the moment.

It is the largest tree in California and the entire United States.

Moreton Bay fig trees, scientifically known as Ficus macrophylla trees, are not native to Santa Barbara but rather to Australia.

The seed was sown, resulting in the massive and towering natural wonder we now know.

This big fig tree can be found relatively close to the famous Amtrak station.

Australian Moreton Bay palm seedlings were planted in Santa Barbara in 1876 by the daughter of a ship’s crew member who was visiting the city at the time of its founding.

Its many arms spread out from it, looping up and sideways, and you may be tempted to climb it, but remember that this is not permitted!

This is a fantastic one-of-a-kind sight to witness when in Santa Barbara.

Address: Chapala Street and Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA

You must visit California at least once in your lifetime. Choose your travel destination here on our travel guides for Long Beach and Santa Monica. Look out for fun-filled things to do in Long Beach, California and interesting things to do in Santa Monica, California.

Museum of Natural History

Museum of Natural History is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

If you’re looking for something to do within Santa Barbara on a rainy day, go to this one-of-a-kind museum.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s modest rooms, including a kid-sized cavern and an outdoor playground, are ideal for small visitors.

On the other hand, adults should take a stroll around the campus’ Mission Revival buildings, which are spread along a woodland creek.

This highly interactive regional aquarium on historic Stearns Wharf provides near experiences with marine animals from the Santa Barbara Channel.

The exhibitions are located in a collection of mission-style buildings set in an oak woodland setting.

The exhibits include a 74-foot whale skeleton and displays of marine life, fossils, birds, and mammals.

When you view this magnificent treasure, you might be unable to trust your own eyes.

Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center to learn about the wonders of sea life.

Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA 2559 Puesta Del Sol

Old Mission

Old Mission Santa Barbara, California
Old Mission Santa Barbara, California / David Merrett / Flickr

Try to visit Old Mission Santa Barbara!

Old Mission Santa Barbara is a beautiful and graceful monument built in 1786.

It is the only Mission in California still inhabited by Franciscans, making it one of the top sites to visit in California.

Self-guided tours of the Museum, church, gardens, and cemetery are available.

Guided tours are also available once a day and provide information about the mission’s history and relics.

It was the eighth mission in Alta, California, to be established by Padre Fermn Lasuén on December 4, 1786, the Feast of Saint Barbara, for the Friars.

There is also a gift shop that you can visit.

The candy-colored pink and white mission is recognized as one of the most attractive buildings of its sort in California, and it makes a gorgeous image with the mountains in the background.

You might consider this if you’re seeking activities to do within Santa Barbara and are interested in history.

Address: 2201 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA

Planning on a visit to California for your holiday? You have to travel to Monterey and Los Angeles. Pay attention to the engaging things to do in Monterey, California, and the best things to do in Los Angeles, California, to make out the most of your trip!

Orchid Estate

Santa Barbara Orchid Estate, California
Santa Barbara Orchid Estate, California / Morgan Hartt / Flickr

Long live the orchid! 

Orchids can live up to one hundred years! Visit the Orchid Estate of Santa Barbara and enjoy seeing the orchid’s perfectly formed petals.

The Orchid Estate of Santa Barbara is located on 5 acres of property near the coast.

It was founded in 1957 and is currently managed and owned by Paul Gripp and his two children.

It is presently managed and owned by Paul Gripp and daughter and son Alice and Parry, all world-renowned orchid collectors and propagators.

Heat-tolerance orchids for the outdoors are their expertise.

Temperature-resistant orchids are the specialty of the estate.

Visitors are welcome in this must-see California attraction, and it’s all too tempting to assume you’ve wandered into a fantasy story.

While you’re here, you can buy one of the hundreds upon hundreds of orchid varieties for sale while you’re here.

Through exhibitions and seminars, Gripp and his children are also delighted to provide information and guidance on safely and successfully growing orchids.

If you happen to be in Santa Barbara, you should not pass up the chance to gaze at these stunning orchids.

Address: 1250 Orchid Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93111, USA

California is an amazing travel destination. Don’t miss out on these comprehensive travel guides for San Diego and San Francisco. Check out the best things to do in San Diego, California and the best things to do in San Francisco, California.

Paseo Nuevo

Paseo Nuevo , Santa , Barbara
Paseo Nuevo , Santa , Barbara / La Citta Vita / Flickr

Is shopping your favorite hobby? Then go to Paseo Nuevo in Santa Barbara, California.

This outdoor shopping complex features well-known chain stores, attractive boutiques, and lovely cafes surrounded by fountains and potted plants.

This is especially true around the holidays when this Santa Barbara shopping center is decked out in dazzling decorations.

Great outdoor shopping mall with potted palms and fountains.

The paved walkways are lined with excellent shops, big-name brand stores, and outdoor cafés, and it’s adorable during the holidays when lights adorn the mall.

Even if you don’t buy anything, strolling around here is enjoyable.

You can also go along State Street from Paseo Nuevo and explore various specialty shops, antique stores, and boutiques.

Cafés and eateries pour out onto the sidewalks here, making for excellent people-watching.

This is a good option for you to consider if you are a shopaholic seeking for things to do in the Santa Barbara area.

Address: 651 Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara, California 93101, USA

Shoreline Park

Shoreline Park is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

Shoreline Park offers you the best of both worlds.

It offers breathtaking views of Santa Barbara’s coastline while also providing a glimpse into the bustling city.

The Santa Ynez Mountains can even be seen in the backdrop.

You can participate in a variety of enjoyable activities while you are here.

If you’re lucky, you might even see some passing whales, and the attraction is entirely free.

This popular 14.6-acre park on a coastal bluff features playgrounds, picnic tables, barbeques, pathways, and comfy chairs.

The park welcomes pets, and there are walking routes for strolls.

There are also stairs leading down to the shore, where youngsters can explore the tidal pools for creatures.

The park is a great spot to see marine life, with dolphins frequently visible in the sea below (and whales if you look through the binoculars).

Address: Shoreline Drive and Santa Rosa Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, USA

California offers a lot to its visitors! Use our travel guides to see and do more on Sacramento and Palm Springs! Bust into the unique things to do in Sacramento,California and the best things to do in Palm Springs, California!

Salt Cave

Salt Cave is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

The Salt Cave is one of the best things to do in California.

Salt Cave is a great place to feel good!

The Salt Cave of Santa Barbara isn’t one of California’s most popular tourist destinations, but it’s packed with such distinct charm that it’s well worth a visit.

You can reserve a session to spend time in this pleasant and calming grotto.

Since 2012, the company has offered massage and facial therapies with innovative materials, including pink Himalayan salt, in crystal cavern rooms.

Engineered the world’s largest underground artificial salt cave in the United States

Santa Barbara has two salt caves, the biggest of which is currently the largest salt cave in North America, kept at a constant temperature and humidity.

Each cave’s air is cleaned to be free of pollution and rich in naturally occurring minerals.

Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for some salt scrubs, soaks, and other bath and body products.

Salt cave is a unique spa experience in that you can relax in the zero-gravity seats while listening to soft music for a truly relaxing experience. Visit now and invite your friends!

Address: 740 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA

Stearns Wharf

Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, California
Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, California / Damian Gadal / Flickr

At Stearns Wharf, you can witness stunning sunsets!

Stearns Wharf has stunning views of the port and beaches.

You can buy directly from the boats and bring your fish home on ice—cheaper, fresher, and much more fun.

It served as a passenger and freight train for almost 25 years until being named after its constructor, John P. Stearns.

Since 1872, Stearns Wharf has been the oldest wooden wharf in California still in service.

It is located on prominent State Street and is home to over 17 different companies, an educational facility, and a market specializing in Santa Barbara seafood.

Stearns Wharf is a departure point for whale viewing and other ocean cruises.

Stroll the waterfront to browse the gift stores. If you like seafood, stop at the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company for clam chowder or other seafood meals.

Also, don’t forget to capture cityscapes and buildings tucked into the mountainsides from the wharf. It’s a great place to take pictures! Visit Stearns Wharf now.

Address: 217 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, California 93101, USA

California will surely surprise you with its many wonders! Discover our travel guides to San Jose and Orange County. For the best travel experience, check out the awesome things to do in San Jose, California, and the best things to do in Orange County, California.

The Lobero Theatre

The Lobero Theatre is one of the best places to go in Santa Barbara, California

If you’re a genre fan and are in the neighborhood, why not spend a night reveling in this theatre’s fantastic music and varied experiences?

The Lobero Theater in Santa Barbara, California, hosts a range of intriguing shows that are a must-see for any entertainment enthusiast!

The theatre opened in 1872 and it was restored in 1923.

Considered among Santa Barbara’s extraordinary architectural masterpieces.

Also, this place is near the heart of downtown Santa Barbara’s Theater District.

Although its old-world charm remains, technological advancements allow exceptional performing arts experiences ranging from music to ballet.

It is California’s oldest continually operating theater and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Santa Barbara.

Much of the Lobero is devoted to presenting jazz events.

Moreover, Lobero has featured jazz legends, including Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Brubeck, Wayne Shorter, Dave Holland, and Herbie Hancock.

Stop by this theatre to view one of California’s best architectural structures and star-studded venue!

Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA 33 E Canon Perdido St

Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation

Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation, Santa Barbara California
Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation, Santa Barbara, California / Nick Amoscato / Flickr

Have you ever dreamed of making sound effects for a Hollywood film or entering inside a big guitar? All of this is possible at MOXI!

This exciting science and technology museum is located two blocks from the Santa Barbara waterfront, housed in a lovely Spanish Colonial-style building with quirky sea-themed embellishments.

The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation, also known as MOXI, is a new addition to the Santa Barbara, California attractions list.

This fascinating and entertaining Museum initially opened in 2017 and spans over 17,000 square feet.

For adults and children alike, it offers a wide range of fun and educational activities that are sure to keep visitors of all ages entertained.

All of the exhibits at this three-story Museum are centered around some aspect of the STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) fields.

In addition, you can design and test your creations in the Innovation Workshop.

You may also visit the Sky Gallery on the roof.

Experience the breathtaking views of the mountains, massive telescopes for observing the sky, and exciting water elements.

Address: 125 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA

Up for an adventure? California has a lot to offer! Hop over to our travel guides in Santa Cruz. Check out the best things to do in Santa Cruz, California.

Zoo

Santa Barbara Zoo, California
Santa Barbara Zoo, California / Marc Levin / Flickr

The Santa Barbara Zoo is a great spot for fun, especially if you’re with family!

This unique zoo was formerly a wealthy estate owned by a coffee and tea merchant.

The Santa Barbara Zoo is modest, yet it houses about 150 different types of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

Animals from all over the world can be seen in their natural environments.

Its wide-open spaces and lush gardens of palms and native plants give it the feel of a botanical garden, making it a pleasant spot to walk about.

Moreover, the park is widely recognized as among the country’s greatest little parks, and among the top activities tourists can do in Santa Barbara with kids.

You’ll get up close and personal with kangaroos, emus, and wallabies and feel like you’ve never seen these animals before.

It’s a must-see destination on any sightseeing tour of this California region.

Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93103, USA 500 Ninos Dr

Volunteer At Animal Shelters

Animal Shelters in Santa Barbara, California
Animal Shelters in Santa Barbara, California

Consider helping at a local shelter for abandoned animals. Unlicensed breeding and irresponsible pet owners have created a severe pet overpopulation problem. Extreme measures like culling are required to reduce the rising number of strays and homeless cats and dogs. There is a need for animal shelters to address the challenges posed by the overpopulation of stray animals and abandoned pets.

You know that warm, gratifying feeling you get after doing something altruistic for someone else and seeing how much better their day will be as a result? You will receive that reward each time you assist a sick or distressed shelter animal.

Some ways to volunteer are to walk dogs at a local shelter, foster kittens with a rescue group, do administrative work like stuffing envelopes for a good cause, help raise money or plan events for local animal charities, or participate in local events that raise awareness about animal welfare.

Check out the animal shelters in Santa Barbara, California, where you can volunteer. Help needy animals!

Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.

Still undecided on visiting Santa Barbara, California? Click here for why visit Barbara, California at least once in your lifetime here.

Spread the love!