Classic Santa Barbara, Car Free
Classic Santa Barbara, Car Free
Whether it's your first time visiting Santa Barbara, or you're in the mood to revisit the landmarks that made you fall in love with our fair city, this itinerary will help you see Santa Barbara's most iconic attractions. The best part? You don't need a car. Lace up your walking shoes (or equip yourself with a bike) and take advantage of the super convenient Waterfront-Downtown Electric Shuttle*, which can get you almost** everywhere on this must-see list. You can fit all of the main sights into a day, or take your time and experience more by spreading the experience out over two or even three days.
- Start out where State Street meets Cabrillo Boulevard at the postcard-worthy dolphin fountain and walk onto Stearns Wharf. Soak up the views, browse through the shops, snap some pictures and, if you're hungry, there are plenty of eateries that specialize in fresh catch and stellar views. If you've got kids in tow, they'll love petting sharks and other ocean critters at the hands-on Ty Warner Sea Center.
- Take the Lil Toot water taxi from the Wharf across to the Harbor, where you can see fishermen hauling in their catch of the day. Walk out onto the breakwater, explore the Maritime Museum and check out the surf memorabilia at Endless Summer Bar-Café. Rent a kayak or head out to sea on a whale watching cruise.
- Head east on the oceanfront, palm-lined Cabrillo Bikeway on the shuttle or a bike, segway, surrey or your very own two feet. (Bike, surrey and segway rental outfitters are just steps from the Wharf.)
- Hit the sands of East Beach for some sun and fun. Play beach volleyball, take a dip in the sea or rent a kayak and head out for a peaceful paddle.
- A visit to Santa Barbara is not complete without strolling State Street. You could spend all day in the heart of Downtown checking out the galleries, shops, cafes, spas and historic and architectural landmarks like El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park.
- The self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour, starting at the County Courthouse, is a great way to learn about the city's history and signature architectural style. Download our pocket map and podcast here.
- Head towards the hills to see Santa Barbara's most photographed landmark, Mission Santa Barbara. Considered "Queen of the Missions", it was the 10th of California's 21 missions and is the only mission o be continually occupied by the Franciscans. The $2 fee to enter the museum is well worth it and, in addition to viewing Chumash artifacts and art, admission gives you access to see more of the picturesque grounds, including the fascinating cemetery.
*The Waterfront-Downtown Electric Shuttle fare is 25 cents one way and runs every 8-10 minutes up and down State Street between the Arlington Center for the Performing Arts and Stearns Wharf. The Shuttle runs every 13-30 minutes along the waterfront between the Zoo and the Harbor.
**Line 22 offers weekend service to local attractions including the Botanic Garden, Museum of Art, Mission, County Courthouse and Museum of Natural History, to name a few.
