Things to do in Santa Barbara, California
Visitors agree "there are so many things to see in Santa Barbara". Explore California's historic roots with a visit to Old Mission Santa Barbara or Stearns Wharf. Shop and dine along State Street or Paseo Nuevo Mall. Bring on the family fun at Ty Warner Sea Center or a whale-watching trip. It's all here in Santa Barbara.
Paseo Nuevo Mall in Santa Barbara ~
This elegant shopping mall puts a whole new spin on the term "retail therapy." From American Eagle Outfitters to Victoria's Secret and everything in between, Paseo Nuevo Mall just off State Street is a shopper's antidote for just about anything that ails. Enjoy dining and live entertainment as well. Visit www.paseonuevoshopping.com.
Old Mission, Santa Barbara ~
The Missions of California hold a deep historic significance for the state, and Old Mission Santa Barbara is no exception. Founded in 1786 by the Franciscan Friar Fermin de Lasuen, today the Mission of Santa Barbara is home to beautiful gardens as well as the church, museum, and cemetery. For more information, go to santabarbaramission.org.
Santa Barbara Museum of Art ~
The Santa Barbara Museum of Art has one of the most impressive collections of artistic works in the Western United States. Spanning over 5,000 years, the collection includes antiquities as well as a number of Monet paintings - more than any other in California. Be sure to take note of the stunning mural by David Alfaro Siqueiros in the entrance of the museum. Visit http://www.sbmuseart.org/.Santa Barbara Zoo ~
Located less than 2 miles from Coast Village Inn, the Santa Barbara Zoo welcomes visitors of all ages throughout the year. There are over 500 animals that call the Santa Barbara Zoo home, including tortoises, the Channel Island fox, and bald eagles. Attractions include the Barnyard and Carousel. Go tohttp://www.santabarbarazoo.org/exhibits.asp.
Santa Barbara Stearns Wharf ~
One of Santa Barbara's most popular destinations, Stearns Wharf is a historic landmark and a testament to Santa Barbara's shipping roots. The Wharf once was the hub of freight and passenger docking. Today, it's home to tourist shops and eateries. Visit www.stearnswharf.orgState Street
Santa Barbara, California ~
The heart of Santa Barbara's downtown district is State Street. Restaurants, shops, galleries, museums, historic sites - you'll find all of these on a stroll through this charming neighborhood. After the sun goes down, State Street's dynamic vibe continues with a thriving nightlife scene. Go to www.santabarbaradowntown.com.Ty Warner Sea Center in Santa Barbara ~
Part of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, the Ty Warner Sea Center is a fun, interactive place of learning for kids of all ages as well as adults. Get up close to creatures of the sea including starfish, urchins, and limpets. You might even touch a shark in the Touch Pool! Go to www.sbnature.org/seacenter.Santa Barbara, California Whale Watching ~
With its sheltered position due to the Channel Islands, Santa Barbara is a wonderful place for whale watching. These leviathans of the deep make their way twice a year through the ocean waters off Santa Barbara's coast. The best months to spot grey whales are February through early April. May to September is the time to see orcas and blue whales.
Channel Islands ~
Located 44 miles off the coast of Santa Barbara, the Channel Islands National Park is comprised of 5 islands, Anacapa, Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara, San Miguel, and Santa Cruz. Their isolation allows for unique fauna, that are found nowhere else in the world, to inhabit the islands. Hiking, snorkeling, bird watching, and kayaking are a few activities visitors can enjoy on and around the Channel Islands once you arrive by boat or plane. http://www.nps.gov/chis/index.htm.Santa Barbara, California Colleges and Universities
- Santa Barbara City College
- University of California at Santa Barbara
- Westmont College
