Santa Barbara has it all: art, fine dining, cycling, wine, and beaches. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to high 70s, so you can explore the colonial town and the mountains beyond in comfort.
Here are some must-do activities to make the most of your trip to Santa Barbara.
1. Take a Trip to Wine Country
With a diverse range of wines and talented vintners, Santa Barbara is the perfect place for novices and aficionados alike. You could spend days exploring the wine trails and vineyards.
The ability to be in one of the world’s greatest wine regions in two hours is often an overlooked option for Las Vegans!
2. Explore the Town’s History
Santa Barbara is steeped in rich history. Visit the regal 18th-century Old Mission Santa Barbara to see a living National Historic Landmark. Explore the museum and mausoleum, talk to a real friar, and check out the gift shop.
While you’re out and about, remember to stop by the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Take a tour through this National Historic Landmark that also serves as a working courthouse. Built in 1929, it has lots of architecture and artwork to admire.
3. Check Out the Museums
Santa Barbara is home to a surprising number of museums. A tourist favorite is the Museum of Natural History as it’s a kid-friendly attraction. You can learn about the natural world from the past and present. There’s even an aquarium section where you can handle live sea creatures.
Visit the rotating art exhibitions at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. After a six-year renovation, the museum has expanded with new galleries and upscale rooms.
4. Stroll the Lush Gardens
Spend a relaxing afternoon walking along the paths in the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. You’ll find native California plants, including young redwood trees!
Then head over to the unique Lotusland. Created by Polish opera singer Ganna Walska, this tropical paradise can be found on the hillside of Montecito. Register for a two-hour guided tour so you can learn everything about these rare and exotic plants.
5. Take a Hike
If you’re in Santa Barbara, you must visit Inspiration Point, where you can see the entire coastline. The shorter hike starts at Tunnel Trail and is a quick 3.5-mile roundtrip. The longer trail starts at Jesusita Trail and is 7 miles long.
On hot days, take the 2.5-mile trial to Seven Falls, where there’s a refreshing pool waiting for you. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit! There’s an adventure to be had here for serious hikers. Then, continue into the upper canyon to find several more waterfalls!
For a full day of hiking, there’s a 10-mile hike to La Cumbre Peak, Santa Barbara’s highest peak. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Pacific.
6. Visit the Funk Zone
The Funk Zone is a neighborhood district between Highway 101 and the ocean. You’ll find cafés, art galleries, home goods, restaurants, boutiques, and more bursting out of converted warehouses. Admire the large wall murals as you stroll through this eclectic neighborhood.
It’s also home to the largest part of the Urban Wine Trail, made up of over 20 tasting rooms! As you sip your way through the Funk Zone, check out some foodie favorites, such as The Lark and Lucky Penny.
If you find yourself exploring the California coast, make a pit stop at Santa Barbara! The views, the history, and the wine make this one of California’s best hidden gems.
Find cheap flights to Santa Maria from Las Vegas and have the best weekend getaway.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Santa Barbara?
