Santa Barbara CA CVB Blog

Taking Dining in a Different Direction in Santa Barbara

Tue, 08 May 2012 14:39:08 GMT

Foodies are quick to flock to Santa Barbara's many acclaimed eateries. Downtown is laden with savory spots of all varieties, from exquisite Italian, sushi and Spanish fusion to the area's classic coastal cuisine. But wander a bit further and you'll find that an inviting menu isn't the only appealing aspect of some of Santa Barbara's most sought after restaurants. Here, a unique setting is easy to come by, and hard to leave, even after you've finished dessert.

Brophy Bros. - An institution on the boardwalk of the Santa Barbara Harbor, this classic waterfront restaurant offers a vast menu of seafood specialties. Enjoy yours while watching fisherman haul in their daily catch.
The Harbor Restaurant - For fine dining at the top of the waves, head to The Harbor Restaurant on Stearns Wharf. Gourmet dishes are complemented by cleverly crafted comfort foods (Lobster Mac & Cheese, anyone?) in an intimate setting where window seats look out over the water and guests can watch seals and dolphins play below.
Jane's - If you're looking for some company, head to Jane's and take a seat at the communal table, which encourages friendly mingling. Dine on dishes such as Chicken Piccata and Greek Salad with Homemade Grilled Lamb Sausage and don't forget to save room for the famous coconut cake.
The Stonehouse at San Ysidro Ranch - Perhaps one of Santa Barbara's most romantic and memorable restaurants, The Stonehouse is perfect for special occasions. It was also notably JFK and Jackie's honeymoon retreat. Dine on Pan Seared Diver Scallops or Colorado Rack of Lamb, accented with produce from the chef's on-site organic garden.
Shoreline Beach Café - Enjoy the day's local catch with the sand at your feet. This sun-kissed setting is perfect for a late afternoon family lunch. Parents can sit back, relax and take in the immediate ocean views while kiddies can play in the sand.

Santa Barbara Launches Culture 101 Exploring the Area’s Vast Art and Culture Scene

Fri, 04 May 2012 12:31:16 GMT

The headline on the new Santa Barbara Culture 101 website reads, "Our Culture Is Driven by Passion. Pick Yours." I can't think of a more apt invitation for this new and exciting campaign, which highlights the best of art and culture in the Santa Barbara South Coast. Perhaps more widely known for its incredible wine country, inviting outdoor recreation and ocean-meets-evergreen landscape, Santa Barbara's culture scene will quickly work its way up your favorites list, running deep with both history and opportunity. Definitely take a moment to explore and, as the website entices, pick your passion:

Attractions - Choose from a variety of don't-miss-this area attractions, from the Santa Barbara Zoo to the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, which was a Royal favorite during Will and Kate's stateside visit.

Architecture and History - Or should I say, where architecture meets history. Santa Barbara's colorful Native American and Spanish influences can be seen in every arch and angle of the area's iconic style, including the famous Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Old Mission Santa Barbara, appropriately coined, "The Queen of the Missions."

Cultural Organizations - Santa Barbara's dedication to art and culture goes well beyond personal experience. The coastal town harbors many cultural organizations that are as passionate about celebrating and promoting culture as they are about experiencing it.

Events and Festivals - The beauty of living in an area that offers mild-to-perfect temperatures year-round and over 300 days of sunshine per year is that gatherings and celebrations are made easy and Santa Barbara doesn't disappoint. The events and festivals lineup is not just an extension of the art and culture scene, it's a pillar of it.

Photo courtesy of Patricia Clarke/Summer Solstice Celebration

Museums and Galleries - If you could spend the entire day wandering the halls of history and aisles of art, Santa Barbara is the place for you. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is considered one of the best in the region. Families will love the live exhibits at the Ty Warner Sea Center and art aficionados won't be bored wandering the acclaimed galleries.

Photo courtesy of Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Parks and Gardens - You don't have to go far to find a park or garden near you in Santa Barbara. From free-form English-style spreads to the more manicured and eclectic expanse at the nationally haled Lotusland, your afternoon surrounded by lush greenery, Monarch butterflies and roses in bloom awaits.

Performing Arts and Theatres - As the sun sets on Santa Barbara, the performances heat up. From the historic stages of the Granada and Arlington Theatres to the perfect pitches of Opera Santa Barbara and one of the best open-air concert venues in the country-the Santa Barbara Bowl-you'll be entertained and enthralled by SB's live performances.

Culture 101 can be both a quick introduction to Santa Barbara's best, and an extended journey of inspiration that touches upon all 101 pieces of the art and culture mosaic that makes up Santa Barbara's passionate cultural pursuit. And the best part-it's all right here, just off California's Highway 101.

I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival: May 26 – 28, 2012

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:24:46 GMT

Sure, there are a lot of cities that feature iconic landmarks, storied histories and colorful festivals, but few intertwine these community cornerstones so uniquely and engagingly as Santa Barbara.

One such cultural celebration of art and history is the I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival, taking place May 26 - 28 from 10:00am - 6:00pm daily. Madonnari is the Italian term for street painter, which is what you'll see plenty of at this three-day festival during which the sidewalks surrounding the Old Mission Santa Barbara become a colorful palette for local artists. I Madonnari was the first of its kind in the Western hemisphere, inspired by the Grazie di Curtatone in Italy. The stoic Mission makes the perfect backdrop for this truly special and highly anticipated spring event.

Perhaps the best part is that the festival benefits the Children's Creative Project, a nonprofit arts and education program of the Santa Barbara County Education Office, serving over 50,000 children in more than 100 schools throughout Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

And like so many of the items on the Santa Barbara bucket list, admission to I Madonnari is free.

Lower Your CARbon Footprint in Santa Barbara – Go Car-free!

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:04:18 GMT

With Earth Day Festival ramping up this weekend, April 21st and 22nd, we're celebrating the last week of Ecotopia-our ode to Santa Barbara's vast eco-offerings and every-day Earth-friendly culture. This week, our focus is on going car-free, which is really easy to do here in SB. From the downtown train station to public transit and water and land tours, it's easy to see Santa Barbara and lower your carbon footprint at the same time.

Our Top 10 recommended ways to go car-free in SB are:
1. Go by rail!
Skip the parts of your trip where you spend two hours at the airport or get stuck in traffic and instead, book a weekend getaway by train. If you're on the West Coast, Amtrak makes this easy. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner offers five trains a day coming into Santa Barbara from the south. Amtrak is currently offering 20 percent off travel to/from Santa Barbara County stations on Amtrak Pacific Surfliner® and San Joaquins®.

2. See it on a Segway
Give the feet a rest and hop on a segway instead. These small, multi-terrain vehicles are a great way to see the city with an expert guide, who can fill you in on Santa Barbara's secrets.

3. To the Beach by Bike
Santa Barbara is known for being bike and pedestrian-friendly with its downtown open-air malls, bike lanes and paths and public transportation equipped with bike racks. Rent a beach cruiser and head to SB's sandy shores, or head out for a road ride on the winding back roads of Montecito or Goleta. More of an off-road type? Santa Barbara's surrounding hills and mountains are full of buffed out single-track and mountain bike trails for every ability level.

4. Explore in a Sea Kayak
From the rugged coastal terrain of Channel Islands National Park to the calm waters of Santa Barbara's harbors and bays, touring in a sea kayak is a great eco-friendly way to get up-close and personal with the area's marine life. Local tour operators can guide your experience and help you spot finned friends, such as dolphins and whales. Or, rent your own and go for a relaxing paddle in a nearby bay.

5. Cruise the Cabrillo Bikeway
This wide, smooth bikeway hugs the Santa Barbara South Coast for a couple of beautiful, beach-riding miles. It's the perfect path for a family outing. Stop at Stearns Wharf along the way for some shopping and a quick bite before pedaling, walking or skating your way down the road.

6. Walk the Urban Wine Trail
No need to head for the hills to taste the best of Santa Barbara County wines. Area wineries bring the tasting to you with the Urban Wine Trail-a series of approximately 15 tasting rooms all within blocks of each other, downtown and the beach.

7. Hail a Water Taxi
Cruise from one end of Santa Barbara Harbor to the other in a Lil' Toot water taxi for some authentic ocean-side culture and a car-free way to get from Point A to Point Sea. Taxi captains also offer up a good dose of history and maritime fun facts during your tour of the Harbor.

8. Opt for Public Transit
Santa Barbara's public transportation is vast, affordable and frequent. Commuter bus routes run north and south along the coast, while the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) provides reliable, safe, comfortable transportation throughout Santa Barbara County. Regular one-way fares are $1.75, while the two great downtown sightseeing options-the Seaside Shuttle and the Downtown-Waterfront Shuttle-are just $.25 one-way!

9. Take a Stroll
With its beautiful Spanish-inspired architecture, rich history, many parks and gardens and lively streets full of boutique shopping and a variety of dining options, an engaging Santa Barbara stroll can be as short as a single city block or go on for hours. Enjoy a self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour (complete with downloadable podcast), wander the trails that weave through a park near you, or load up on haute couture, the newest surf styles or artisan chocolates and olive oils doing some shopping Santa Barbara-style.

10. Pile into a Pedicab
Consider it Santa Barbara's version of the minivan. The local bike paths and pedestrian-friendly zones make piling the family into a pedicab and going for an afternoon spin a total breeze!

Santa Barbara truly embraces a car-free culture. Whether you're enjoying the view of the Pacific from your Amtrak window seat or spinning through town on your beach cruiser, lowering your CARbon footprint is easy in SB.

It’s Earth Month in Santa Barbara!

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:34:34 GMT

I opened my email this morning and was excited to see the Community Environmental Council's April e-newsletter, with the headline, "Get Ready for Earth Month." With the official Earth Day Festival taking place April 21st and 22nd, April features a series of great events leading up to the big celebration and of course, every day truly is Earth Day in our true Ecotopia of Santa Barbara.

Some highlights include the Green Shorts Film Festival, which will take place this Friday, April 6th. Spend the evening with celebrities, filmmakers and fellow movie fans while watching an assortment of short films-all one- to two-minutes in length-that highlight sustainable living, energy independence and a green future. Walk the "green" carpet to catch the best in eco-filmmaking and party down at the After Party.

Help kick-off this year's Festival at the Opening Night Party on April 18th from 6:00pm - 10:00pm at the Oreana Winery & Tasting Room. There will be a live performance by Deer Leg with DJ Tuck B and special guest and local food provided by the O Street Food Truck. Tickets are $10 advance purchase or $15 at the door. Follow that up with a free presentation on global warming by James Lawrence Powell on April 19th at the Santa Barbara Library.

The official Earth Day Festival is a free event, taking place at Alameda Park. This year's highlights include:

Bike World: Ride your favorite bike to the event and get a free bike check-up!
Campus Point: Support the next generation of eco-lovers by heading over to Campus Point to hang with high school and college-based organizations and departments that promote environmental awareness and student engagement.
Eco-Marketplace: Find green products, smart technology, cool gadgets, organic clothing and other fun, sustainably produced treats.
Food and Drink: The Earth Day food court will feature local brew, wine and grub.
Green Car Show: Now in its 13th year, the Santa Barbara Green Car Show is the largest collection of efficient and alternative-fueled vehicles between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Kid's Corner: Bring the entire family! Kid's Corner showcases over a dozen hands-on stations and workshops specially designed for children and their families.
Live Green: Want to see what the world would look like if all buildings were super efficient, landscaping was sustainably designed, energy was produced from alternative sources and families ate garden-fresh from their own back yards? Then head to the Live Green area.
Public Square: Visit your favorite non-profit organizations, government agencies and community-based projects working in the public interest.
OzoKids: Los Angeles-based urban-Latino-hip-hop-funk band Ozomatli takes center stage on Sunday from 2:30 - 3:20 to perform a special family-friendly set geared toward performing for children and adults alike.

If you love Santa Barbara's plentiful Earth-friendly offerings, whether they be recreational, locavore or community-oriented, then make sure to celebrate Earth Day (and Month!) by participating in this year's Earth Day Festival and surrounding events and activities.

Go Green during Your Trip to Santa Barbara with Some Sustainable Inspiration

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:13:50 GMT

This was an exciting weekend in Santa Barbara. It felt like the first days of spring were upon us. I know; touting SB's 300+ days of sunshine a year and then bragging about the passages of spring seems a bit cruel, especially to all of our mountain town friends. We do love our year-round sunshine and eternally bright weather, but the blooms of spring truly do make it the best time of year to celebrate Santa Barbara's vast eco offerings. We've put together a few itineraries of the green variety, featuring some fun ideas on experiencing true Ecotopia in Santa Barbara.

Classic Santa Barbara
A large part of Santa Barbara's draw is its pedestrian-friendly downtown. It's easy to take in the area's most iconic sites without needing a car. And if you're feet get tired, there's never a shortage of nearby sunny patios and inviting restaurants where you can sit back and relax.

Start out where State Street meets Cabrillo Boulevard at the famous dolphin fountain. A turn toward the beautiful blue Pacific will find you walking along Stearns Wharf. Browse local shops, enjoy fresh seafood, snap some pictures and, if you've got kids in tow, make sure to pay a visit to the hands-on Ty Warner Sea Center.
Hop on the Lil Toot water taxi from the Wharf, which will ferry you across the harbor. Explore the Maritime Museum, rent a kayak or take your adventure completely seaside with a whale watching tour.
Once back on land, go for a stroll along Cabrillo Bikeway. Bike, surrey and segway rental outfitters are just steps from the Wharf.
Play some beach volleyball, toss the Frisbee or go for a swim at East Beach.
No visit to Santa Barbara is complete without a stroll along State Street. Galleries, shops, cafes, restaurants, spas and classic Spanish architecture beckon. Throw in some historical flavor with a visit to El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park.
Learn about the city's history by following the self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour, starting at the County Courthouse.
Finally, head toward the hills to see Santa Barbara's most photographed landmark: Mission Santa Barbara.

All For Locavore
One of the many benefits of Santa Barbara's famous year-round warmth and sunshine is a bounty of produce to match. Local farmers, ranchers and artisans supply area eateries with tasty treasures that any foodie won't want to miss.

Starting the morning off with a fresh-from-the-oven scone at Jeannine's American Bakery. Or give into a guilty pleasure and try one of the chocolate croissants from Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro, with both and uptown and downtown location.
Take an education tour of Fairview Gardens Farm-one of Southern California's oldest organic farms, now preserved as an agricultural easement.
If you're more of a seafood lover, Santa Barbara Harbor is a second home to many local fishermen, and it's where you can find them unloading their locally-harvested catch of the day.
Hop on the Lil' Toot Water Taxi and head over to Stearns Wharf where you can sample fresh culinary cuisine at Santa Barbara Shellfish Co.
Montecito Country Kitchen offers weekday lunchtime classes using local farmers' market produce to create enticing Mediterranean menus. Or spend your Saturday morning with Market Forays, which includes tours of local farmers' and fishermen's markets and specialty food shops, followed by hands-on cooking class.
Top off your culinary journey with some of the area's best locally handcrafted wine and microbrews!

Great Outdoors
Eco-tourists love Santa Barbara. Fresh-air fun is never far when you're in this beachside town.

Wake up with a stroll through the serene trails of the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden with over 65 acres and 1,000 species of native plants.
Visit the Coronado Butterfly Preserve just north of Goleta-home to native coastal sage scrub habitat, eucalyptus groves and numbers birds and wildlife. The best part? From November through March, you can see thousands of monarch butterflies in the early morning.
Santa Barbara and the surrounding area offer a maze of hiking and biking trails. Los Padres National Forest is a favorite among mountain bikers and hikers alike with waterfalls, flowing creeks, hot springs and natural pools.
The adventure continues seaside with a Channel Islands Kayak excursion with Adventure Company of Santa Barbara or Channel Islands Outfitters. Channel Islands National Park & Marine Sanctuary is considered the "Galapagos of North America."
Round out your day with some time at Santa Claus Lane Beach to soak up the sun and ride the waves with locals.

Family Fun Trek
Whether you want to learn more about the natural environment or are simply aiming to minimize your family's footprint during your travels, Santa Barbara is the perfect destination.

Leave the car at home and start the day with a bike ride (rent your wheels at Wheel Fun Rentals) along the beachfront path beginning at Andree Clark Bird Refuge, a 32-acre expansive sanctuary that provides a home to a diverse bird population.
Little imaginations run wild at Santa Barbara's many parks. Take a spin on the classical carousel at Chase Palm Park or check out the Shipwreck Playground.
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is an engaging stop on the family tour. Explore exhibits, check out the planetarium or visit the sea center!
After that, head to Shoreline Park where kids can lose the shoes and feel the sand beneath their feet.
No family beach vacation is complete with a sandcastle, or two! Head to Leadbetter Beach just west of the Harbor for some prime family beach-time fun.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is not to be missed. Wild animals wander the beautiful open spaces and guests get to enjoy animal and ocean views during their visit.
Finally, for a taste of the Wild West, head over to the Santa Barbara Carriage and Western Arts Museum on Castillo Street. This 11,000-square foot museum offers exhibits dating back more than 300 years.

But don't let us stop you there. Santa Barbara is a bountiful Ecotopia year-round. Visit us for updated event information, activity ideas and special offers for your favorite eco-friendly destination.

Santa Barbara Gears Up for Earth Day Festival – April 21 & 22

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:36:55 GMT

There are a lot of fun facts surrounding the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, hosted by the Community Environmental Council. For instance:

Did you know that Santa Barbara was home to the country's first Earth Day Festival back in 1970?
Electricity for the Festival is generated from the sun and biodiesel and, although participants are encouraged to walk, bike and bus to the event, all additional carbon emissions will be offset, resulting in a truly carbon-free weekend event!
It's FREE!
Every year, the Community Environmental Council presents the Environmental Hero Award to an eco-active California citizen. Turns out that Daryl Hannah has made a splash on land as well as she was recognized during the 2011 Festival for her passionate commitment to the environment. Presenting the award was mega Director James Cameron, the 2010 recipient.
It's where you'll find the largest collection of efficient and alternative-fueled vehicles between Los Angeles and San Francisco and the longest-running public Green Car Show in the United States.

Whether it was an afternoon visit or you call SB home, you've most likely enjoyed Santa Barbara's greener side at one point or another. Visited one of the six weekly farmers markets lately? Dined on some locavore deliciousness at one of the many restaurants that offer locally-sourced options? Or maybe you spent your weekend exploring the winding mountain trails or world-class coastline.

When it comes to making the town more Earth- and Earth-lover friendly, Santa Barbara doesn't hold back . Come help us celebrate this special place and its commitment to sustainability at this year's Earth Day Festival in Alameda Park. There is no cost for admission and the entire family is welcome! Enjoy live music, fresh food and Kid's Corner. Bring your bike for a free check-up at Bike World. Check out the latest and earth-friendly greatest at the Eco-Marketplace.

Festival goers are encouraged to walk, bike or take public transportation. The Festival website features updated information, highlights and event schedules. If you're looking for additional ways to enjoy Santa Barbara's green scene, don't miss Ecotopia-a two-month long celebration of SB's eco-loving living, featuring events, travel tips and activity suggestions.

In Celebration of Ecotopia in Santa Barbara: Some Sustainable Travel Tips

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:04:09 GMT

March and April celebrate Ecotopia in Santa Barbara-a two-month long shout-out to SB's year-round culture of sustainability, outdoor activity and locally-sourced food scene. We're pretty proud of the fact that the first Earth Day was celebrated right here in downtown Santa Barbara back in 1970. With so many eco-centric aspects, it's easy to understand why.

In honor of Ecotopia, we've come up with a few sustainable travel tips to help you keep your journeying carbon footprint a little smaller:

1. Purchase reusable travel-size packages and containers that you can refill each trip. 3.4 ounces or 100ml is the current TSA max size for liquids that can pass through security.

2. Include a water bottle in your carry-on. Keep it empty through security if you're flying, but then fill it up and reuse versus buying bottled water in the airport or on the road

3. Look for green hotels and other properties that take extra steps toward more sustainable practices.

4. Choose one stop and experience it to the fullest! This will cut down on gas and travel waste. Lucky for you, Santa Barbara is the perfect place to extend your stay with an eco-friendly itinerary.

5. Make sure to maintain your eco savvy once you've checked in. Turn off lights when you leave your hotel room and hang towels for reuse.

6. Go car-free. Santa Barbara has a pedestrian-friendly town with open-air malls and shopping centers, bike paths and a variety of other public transportation. If you're looking to take the train, take the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® and save 20% when you purchase a ticket for travel to or from all nine Amtrak stations to Santa Barbara County!

7. Check out our farmers markets to support the local farmers and artisans. There are six in the Santa Barbara area every week!

8. Enjoy some locavore entrees while you're here. Many area restaurants offer farm-to-fork dishes.

9. Opt for organic wine. Our FourSquare list of local wineries that utilize sustainable farming methods and/or organic grapes can help guide you.

It might take a little bit of planning, but traveling more sustainably is pretty easy once you get into the green groove and there aren't many places around that boast such eco-friendly offerings as Santa Barbara. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ for updated tips on how you can enjoy the local green scene.

Santa Barbara Celebrates Its Earth-friendly Offerings during March and April with Ecotopia

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 10:59:17 GMT

I love telling people I live in Santa Barbara. The response is almost always the same: an envious dreamy look that says, "Santa Barbara is amazing. I wish I lived there!" It's true that our little utopia offers an abundance of sunshine, outdoor activity, year-round produce and friendly community that appreciates it all. With such gracious Earthly offerings, Santa Barbara's natural wonders are treasured year-round, but with Earth Day just around the corner-and Santa Barbara being home to the first Earth Day celebration in 1970-we're excited to celebrate Ecotopia in March and April! Ecotopia is a tribute to SB's sustainable side, including the Earth Day Festival, steps you can take to lower your travel footprint, tips on earth-friendly dining, shopping and activities, and information on experiencing Santa Barbara Car-Free.

If you're looking for some quick guides on environmentally-friendly ways to enjoy Santa Barbara, here are a few quick references.

Otherwise, we invite you to visit us on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter each week for new information on Santa Barbara's "green" scene. Our collection of ideas is sure to inspire the Earth-lover in you!

Three-time Grammy Winner Bruce Hornsby Lights Up Santa Barbara on March 9th

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 13:55:28 GMT

Even if you're not a Bruce Hornsby fan, you've most likely heard his keyed melodies on the radio or as inspiration to do some home remodeling (his hit Gonna Be Some Changes Made was used in a series of Lowe's hardware store ads). The three-time Grammy winner offers a vast body of work across a variety of stylistic approaches to contemporary music. Hornsby fanatic or not, I highly encourage you to catch his upcoming solo performance at the historic Granada Theatre in downtown Santa Barbara this Friday, March 9th, for two reasons:

1) Bruce Hornsby rocks. Seriously. Although some would argue he appeals to an older crowd, I beg to differ. This thirtysomething has seen him perform live multiple times in a variety of venues and the result is always the same: a greatly-appreciated, highly energetic concert that feels much bigger than Hornsby's man-and-his-piano stage presence. Known for his uplifting piano riffs and timely lyrics, he's also a fantastic performer, engaging the crowd, making jokes and peppering his concerts with tidbits of information and insight into his long musical career.

2) The Granada Theatre. This grand theatre has been a landmark of Santa Barbara performing arts since it opened its doors in 1924. The recent multi-million dollar initiative to renovate and restore the Granada ensures maximum acoustic and viewing pleasure while preserving the building's historical appeal. Both the exterior and interior maintain the grandeur of the Roarin' ‘20s with wide staircases, ornate decoration, enormous chandeliers and elegant lounges. The stage has featured such acts as Fred and Ginger, Henry Fonda, Will Rogers and Martha Graham.

Whether you go for the show or the grand stage on which it takes place, Bruce Hornsby at the Granada is a live performance you won't want to miss. Tickets are available. Show starts at 8:00pm.

The Santa Barbara Bowl Rings in the 2012 Season with Noteworthy Headliners

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 15:15:17 GMT

Ask any local what you must do while you're in Santa Barbara and you're most likely to hear this answer: Catch a show at the Bowl. The Santa Barbara Bowl has been serving up live entertainment and performing arts to the Santa Barbara community since its inception in 1936. The large outdoor amphitheater can seat a total of 4,562 spectators and recent renovations position the Bowl as one of the country's leading outdoor performing arts centers.

Announcements for this season's lineup have been slowly released throughout the past two months, with many more to come. Stay tuned for updated Santa Barbara Bowl performance information and don't wait to get your tickets for those shows you do want to see; they sell out quickly! For already sold-out shows, check back as the show nears for any tickets that may become available.

Radiohead, Opening: Other Lives, Thursday, April 12th at 6:30pm - currently SOLD OUT

Florence + The Machine, Opening: Blood Orange, April 14th at 7:00pm - currently SOLD OUT

Bon Iver, Opening: All Tiny Creatures, April 22nd at 7:00pm - currently SOLD OUT

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros with Special Guests, May 5th at 7:00pm - tickets go on sale Saturday, March 10th at 12:00pm

Tenacious D with Special Guest, May 23rd at 7:00pm - tickets go on sale Saturday, March 10th at 11:00am

Beck, Opening: Devendra Banhart, May 24th at 7:00pm - tickets currently available for purchase

Ben Harper, Opening: Fitz and the Tantrums - tickets currently available for purchase

Santa Barbara Welcomes Boutique Hotel Indigo to the Funk Zone

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 17:50:37 GMT

Hotel Indigo's positioning statement is, "In the Heart of Art." It's true in both the new, boutique hotel's location in Santa Barbara's contemporary cultural center of the Funk Zone, as well as what one experiences upon entering this modern, thoughtful hotel. During a recent visit, I got to explore a bit further and learned that Hotel Indigo exceeds its promise of, "...blending historic splendor with the architectural sophistication of modern design and offers environmentally-friendly, artful lodging."

Conveniently located near downtown, the Amtrak station and Stearns Wharf, Hotel Indigo's 41 intimate guest rooms offer visitors the combined experience of an intimate hotel setting close to everything downtown has to offer. The lobby welcomes with clean lines, natural light, eco-friendly accents and, most importantly, friendly staff. Beyond that, the first thing I noticed was the exceptional and fresh art installations featured throughout the building. As part of the InterContinental Hotels Group, it was important that the property embrace the local aesthetic-in this case, art. The hotel houses the CAF Satellite @ Hotel Indigo Santa Barbara, curated by the Santa Barbara Contemporary Arts Forum, which provides exhibitions of thought-provoking artworks and site-specific, commissioned installations by local artists. The featured pieces are incorporated throughout the property and will rotate yearly.

Rooms featured modern, warm color schemes. Of the 41 guest rooms, 13 offer private outdoor gardens and 14 have views of the Riviera and mountains or urban scenes dotted by palm trees. Additionally, guests can enjoy an art library, business center, boardroom that seats eight to ten comfortably, free WiFi and car free discounts. Hotel Indigo is also a pet-friendly property and utilizes many environmentally-friendly efforts.
In time, a restaurant and bar are expected to open within the property, only adding to Hotel Indigo's unique charm and hospitality. If you're looking for a hip, inviting, boutique hotel with a fresh perspective, Hotel Indigo is sure to please.

Looking for Endless Summer this Spring Break? Head to Santa Barbara

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:51:32 GMT

It's easy to fall into that endless summer groove in Santa Barbara, and I'm not just talking about the consistent 70-degree late winter temps and sunny skies--although the mild climes certainly don't hurt. More than the weather, I'm referring to those classic feelings of summer; action-packed days spent in the ocean or nearby mountains followed by lingering evenings downtown where patio seating and good service are par for the course. Those five-star memories you simply don't want to end, so you stretch them out as long as possible. Maybe you follow up your Santa Ynez wine tour with some live music at the Granada Theatre or perhaps you complement a day exploring the Channel Islands with an evening of fresh farm-to-table coastal cuisine while you take in views of a harbor sunset. Whatever your mid-summer night's dream, Santa Barbara most likely has it, ready and waiting for you, this spring. Here are some ideas and imagery to get you inspired for this year's spring break, Santa Barbara-style.

Photo: J. Sinclair

1. Pick the perfect place to stay: Whether it's road tripping with your tent in tow, cozying up at a local B&B or retreating to a full-service luxury resort, you and your budget will be comfortable at one of Santa Barbara's many hotel and hideaway options.

2. Line up the activities: They say it takes a lifetime to experience all of Santa Barbara and maybe they're right, but be it spontaneous decision making or diligent pre-planning, you'll want to pack in as much as possible during your time here. Choose from a wide variety of outdoor recreation, family-friendly activity, arts and cultural events, guided tours or visit one of the area's many pristine beaches and parks.

Photo: J. Sinclair

3. Enjoy a festival or event: Spring means celebration in Santa Barbara. From celebrating Earth Day in its home town to tasting the best of the area's viticulture during the Vintners Festival, it's a prime time to coincide your travel with a local fête.

Photo: J. Sinclair

4. Wine and Dine: And we don't mean in the traditional grab-a-bite-and-a-brew sort of way. There's a reason the most famous movie about wine ever made was made here. Just as Miles and Jack showed us in Sideways, Santa Barbara wineries are as inviting in flavor and quality as they are in vintner personality. Couple your favorite chardonnay or pinot with a plate of locavore gastronomy. With the access to locally-sourced, fresh produce, seafood and quality meats year-round, Santa Barbara's culinary scene is not to miss.

5. Get the insider scoop: In addition to free travel guides to both help you plan your trip as well as make the most of it while you're here, there are many other resources you can access that will provide you with the local insight, news, events and information to ensure your Santa Barbara getaway is all-time. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Google+ or view the new Santa Barbara video short series, sure to put you in that mid-summer mindset.

Looking for Endless Summer this Spring Break? Head to Santa Barbara

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:51:32 GMT

Photo: J. Sinclair

Looking for Endless Summer this Spring Break? Head to Santa Barbara

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:51:32 GMT

Photo: J. Sinclair

Looking for Endless Summer this Spring Break? Head to Santa Barbara

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:51:32 GMT

Photo: J. Sinclair

Looking for Endless Summer this Spring Break? Head to Santa Barbara

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:51:32 GMT

Photo: J. Sinclair

Cold Springs Tavern: Making the Most of a Santa Barbara Sunday

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:45:36 GMT

I think you'd be hard-pressed to find someone who would argue the relaxing benefits of a three-day weekend. Although many traveled for the 72-hour break, I opted to stick around and enjoy a little Santa Barbara staycation. It was time well spent, filled with trail runs in the gorgeous surrounding hills, beautiful sunsets along the PCH, a little bit of surf and some sun soaking, but perhaps the highlight was a visit to Cold Springs Tavern on Sunday afternoon.

For those who don't know it, this historic spot is located about eight miles northeast of Santa Barbara just off of Highway 154. Cold Springs has a long-standing history-beginning as a stagecoach stop in 1886-and has operated as a restaurant/tavern continuously since 1941. The saloon-style ambiance offers guests a glimpse into the past with many of the original structures still standing, a wood-burning fire roaring within the bar most days and log cabins and buildings covered in moss and vine from over 100 years of providing food and shelter to many a visitor looking for a hot meal, a cold drink and a great time.

Every Sunday afternoon, Cold Springs gives guests one more reason to stop in: the famous tri-tip steak sandwiches and live music. The Sunday scene at Cold Springs is a classic one, a fun mix of all ages and walks of life. From bikers to celebrities to families finishing up the weekend, everyone is there to enjoy the unique setting, filled with live music from local folk, bluegrass and rock bands, and savory steak sandwiches. For $9, enjoy a hearty (and I mean really hearty) tri-tip sandwich, served up fresh from the grill with the option of condiments at the sauce table. Leave the nice weekend wear at home and opt for clothes that can take the occasional barbeque sauce stain and smoky-air smell-all well worth a weekend end at one of the area's classic stops.

A Long-Weekend Itinerary for Santa Barbara and the South Coast

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:54:28 GMT

Perhaps the only thing better than a weekend is a three-day weekend. One extra day for that full-system reboot. Another 24 hours to wind down before you gear up for the week ahead (bonus: now a short week at that!). When it comes to three days of workless bliss, we can't think of a better place to spend them than in Santa Barbara and along the South Coast of central California. If you're visiting from out of the area, make sure to take advantage of a local hotel or hideaway special offer. Of course, there's never quite enough time to fit in everything The American Riviera® has to offer, so we wanted to give you a little something to get you on your way; a roadmap to making the most of your long-weekend. Enjoy!

Day 1 - Friday Evening: Assuming you can say hasta la vista to the office when the clock strikes 5:00, we recommend starting the weekend with a happy hour. Santa Barbara offers a variety of nightlife, whether it be sipping a glass of wine from one of the renowned area wineries, enjoying some locally crafted microbrew or toying with a tasty cocktail from one of SB's talented mixologists, your Friday night happy hour is sure to roll into a happy evening.

Day 2 - Saturday: Head to the Santa Barbara Downtown Farmers Market on the corner of Santa Barbara and Cota Streets. The year-round, sunny coastal climate nurtures a variety of fresh farm-stand produce. Local farmers, bakers and artisans offer row upon row of delicious, locally-sourced treats-the perfect way to start your SB day. After that, it's time for a little fun in the sun! Santa Barbara's outdoor recreation opportunities are endless. Whether you're looking to do some stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, sea kayaking or play a round of golf, The American Riviera® won't disappoint. Plan for at least a half-day of outdoor recreation while you're here! All of that activity is sure to leave you craving some of the best of California coastal cuisine. Choose your flavor at one of the many area restaurants, cafes, food trucks or fish'n chips shops! Once re-energized, check out Santa Barbara's calendar of events, where you'll find today's offerings of theatre performances, life music, museum exhibits and more.

Day 3 - Sunday: After grabbing a breakfast bite, it's time to do some different exploring: the varietal kind. California's Central Coast is home to myriad wineries, which are known to produce exceptional wines in a variety of categories. Paul Giamatti got the Oscar nod, but it was arguably the beautiful backroad scenery and mom-and-pop wineries that stole the show in Sideways, which is reason aplenty to take a self-guided tour of the movie's wine destinations. Lompoc's Wine Ghetto region was recently the subject of an enthusiastic Los Angeles Times article touting both the potency of the area's grapes and its winemaking talent. And of course, you can always choose to ditch the car and take off on foot, exploring the Urban Wine Trail-tasting rooms for local wineries all within blocks of each other in downtown Santa Barbara. Should your tasting take you beyond the county line, it's worth heading to Cold Springs Tavern-an 1860s stagecoach stop located on highway 154 on the San Marcos Pass about 20 minutes outside of Santa Barbara. Sunday afternoons feature live folk and bluegrass music and fresh-grilled tri-tip steak sandwiches. If you find yourself in the Santa Ynez area, stop into the Danish community of Solvang for some authentic European flavor.

Day 4 - Monday: Your final day of the weekend doesn't mean you need to put on the brakes. Instead, we recommend hopping in the car and going for a coastal drive, visiting the quaint coastal communities that make up the gorgeous South Coast. From Santa Barbara, head north to Goleta for some more outdoor adventure, including fishing, surfing, wildlife spotting and hiking. Hop in the car and head back down the beautiful coastal Highway 101 to Carpinteria, a classic, small beach town rife with beautiful beaches, boutique shops and yummy cafés, many of which offer dishes featuring the area's famous avocados. Should time permit, we suggest finishing off the day with a cruise through Summerland for a stroll along Lillie Avenue where you're sure to find unique antiques. Finally, finish the day with a delicious meal at one of Montecito's many savory restaurants.

As the sun sets on your long weekend, relax, reflect and reboot for the week ahead. As many will tell you, there are few places that will reenergize just as much as relax you as the South Coast.