See the Sights of Santa Barbara
Experience the beautiful coastal destination of Santa Barbara and California's American Riviera. Whether a family vacation, a sightseeing adventure, or a romantic getaway, you will find incredible things to do in Santa Barbara. Enjoy pristine beaches and the waves of the Pacific Ocean. Dive into our local culture, from entertainment, arts and museums to trendy shopping and a vibrant food and wine scene.
The Santa Barbara Hotel Collection offers four stellar hotels near our favorite attractions, including the famous Santa Barbara Bowl. Check out our specials and packages and find the right travel deal to help you explore.
Performing Arts and Theaters
Santa Barbara has a thriving music and performing arts scene. Take in the spectacular musical talents of the Santa Barbara Symphony, or catch an expertly acted performance by the Ensemble Theatre Company at The New Vic. Explore other top performing arts venues and theaters in Santa Barbara.
- The Granada Theatre
The Granada Theatre has been a revered local institution in the heart of Santa Barbara for nearly a century, welcoming local and national performers to grace its stunning, Baroque-accented stage. The theater is home to eight repertory companies and is the only theatre in the city to have an all-digital, 4K projection and sound system. The Granada presents large-scale musical performances, live theatre, and comedy.
- Arlington Theatre
See new films, stand-up comedy acts and big-name bands at this historic Mission-style theater in Santa Barbara. Enjoy award-winning plays, innovative dance performances, and your favorite comedians and artists at the Arlington Theatre.
- The Lobero Theatre
The Lobero is California's oldest and longest continually operating theatre. Since first opening the doors on its breathtakingly beautiful stage in 1873, The Lobero has played host to countless notable artists, including Jeff Bridges, Pat Metheney, The Wallflowers, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Jan and Dean, Los Lobos, Robert Cray, Marc Broussard, KT Tunstall, Judy Collins, Ladysmith Black Mambazo Taj Mahal, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Charles Lloyd.
- The Marjorie Luke Theatre
Built in 1933, this Spanish Colonial Revival theatre presents world-class performing arts and culturally diverse programming for the Santa Barbara community. The historic 808-seat Marjorie Luke Theatre offers a schedule of plays, dance, film, and concerts throughout the year.
- The Santa Barbara Bowl
The Santa Barbara Bowl is the city's most celebrated concert venue, and for good reason. This 4,500-seat amphitheater was first built into the picturesque hillside it calls home in 1936 and has hosted world-renowned artists ever since.
Public Markets
Experience the best food and drink Santa Barbara has to offer at the public markets located throughout the city.
The Mill, offers delicious locally produced beers and wines, perfect for group gatherings.?The Waterline?is yet another example of a unique, community-centric destination for food, beer and wine and works and wares created by local artisans and skilled craftspeople.
- Santa Barbara Public Market
Shop at one of the top destinations for regionally sourced food and drink. Nestled in the booming cultural arts district of downtown Santa Barbara, this public market is truly a taste of the California coast.
- The Mill
Explore this local artisan marketplace in stylistically restored buildings in Santa Barbara. Enjoy farm-to-table dining at several restaurants, go wine and beer tasting, and relax in the tree-shaded courtyard for a unique California experience. Pick up a bottle of local wine take home.
- Waterline
Shop, dine and experience our community-centric destination for food, beer, wine, and works and wares created by local artisans and craftspeople.
Downtown Santa Barbara Shopping
Enjoy shopping in downtown Santa Barbara, with many popular stores for clothing, décor, and gifts. Spend the day browsing the many downtown shops and boutiques, where you'll find everything from souvenirs to the perfect pair of shoes.
- Paseo Nuevo
Paseo Nuevo is a premier open-air shopping destination in the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara. explore over 70 shops and restaurants and enjoy shopping at many locally owned businesses and boutiques.
- Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show
See this piece of living history showcasing more than 200 creative local artists and artisans. Explore the market featuring original drawings, paintings, sculptures, pottery, and photography every Sunday.
- La Cumbre Plaza
Explore an outdoor shopping center featuring an exclusive collection of retailers and eateries including Macy's, Bristol Farms, and Lure Fish House.
- La Arcada Courtyard
Experience the premier dining and shopping destination in the heart of Santa Barbara's historic cultural arts district.
Sightseeing in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara offers a wide range of sights and experiences. Spend the day in a museum learning about the city's long history, or head over to the harbor for waterfront food, drinks, and views. If trip planning isn't your strong suit, let sightseeing tours like Eat This, Shoot That! or the Santa Barbara Trolley show you the best things to do in the area.
- Eat This Shoot That
Take a walking tour and savor delicious cuisine while learning photo tips from a local foodie in Santa Barbara, California.
- Santa Barbara Trolley
Explore Santa Barbara by trolley. Trolley tours offer fun and convenient sightseeing experiences in our beautiful city.
Museums in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara museums offer cultural experiences for every interest. Let your curiosity run wild as you take a journey through time and space at our favorite museums.
- Moxi Museum
This hands-on science museum makes learning fun and exciting for kids and adults. Opened in 2017, MOXI is the first LEED Gold certified museum in Santa Barbara County.
- Santa Barbara Historical Museum
Explore one of the oldest cultural institutions in the city. The Santa Barbara Historical Museum is home to a vast collection of documents and artifacts that provide a deeper knowledge of the city's rich history.
- Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History will feed your need for knowledge from land to sea to space. Tour the planetarium or visit the sea center; families will love this classic Santa Barbara attraction.
Top Attractions in Santa Barbara
Known as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara captivates visitors with its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and exciting attractions.
- Santa Barbara Harbor
Enjoy a day on the water at the Santa Barbara Harbor. Enjoy great local eats, fun outdoor activities, and get a sense of Santa Barbara's culture.
- Lotusland
Situated on the historic estate of Madame Ganna Walska, Lotusland is one of the top public gardens in the world. See a stunning collection of over 3,000 different plants from around the globe.
- Santa Barbara Zoo
Home to over 146 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects, the Santa Barbara Zoo is the nation's best small zoo. Visitors can enjoy giraffe feeding, see an art exhibit at Volentine Gallery, or take a 10-minute ride on the Zoo Train.
- Old Mission Santa Barbara
Founded in 1786, the Old Mission Santa Barbara is the city's chief cultural and historical landmark. It is a must-visit destination when you plan your trip to the beautiful California Central Coast.
Live Entertainment & Nightlife
If you love music, comedy, and live performances, explore the many entertainment venues, concert stages and clubs in Santa Barbara. Get ready to get out of your seat and onto your feet.
- Eos Lounge
If you're in the mood to dance, EOS Lounge is where Santa Barbara goes to get down. As the city's most famous nightclub, EOS hosts local, regional, and national DJs, regular comedy nights, and EDM artists in its three bars and dual dance floors.
- Whiskey Richard’s
If you like your music loud and your atmosphere upbeat, head to Whiskey Richards. The vibe is classic dive bar, complete with cheap drinks, a lively atmosphere, and a jukebox full of timeless hits. The live music schedule is ever-changing and features local and touring bands, open-mic jams and instant-rockstar karaoke. Bring your sense of adventure and be prepared to have a good time.
- Soho Music Club
Locals in the know head to Soho Music Club for the absolute best in up-and-coming acts and intimate sets from top artists who don't typically play venues this grounded. Grab dinner before the show at the attached restaurant serving sophisticated dishes and drinks.