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Santa Barbara City Guide

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Santa Barbara, California is alive with youthful energy within an atmosphere of casual sophistication and charm. Students from five colleges in the area bring vitality and enthusiasm, collaborating with local residents on many worthwhile projects. The city rests on a narrow shelf between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific coast, and is one of southern California's foremost vacation areas.

A day in the city could be spent biking, beach-going, fishing, or hiking in a setting rich with distinctive architecture, public art, beautiful parks and playgrounds. The same day could also include spending time at Santa Barbara's enchanting zoo or visiting a selection of museums with special children's exhibits.

The Santa Ynez Valley stretches west through central Santa Barbara County, reaching toward the city and the Pacific Ocean beyond. It's a land of relaxed beauty, where narrow roads curl through the knobby, windswept Santa Rita Hills, through rows of walnut trees and strawberry fields, past acres of cabbage and broccoli and, here and there, a few vineyards. Santa Barbara has the perfect climate for growing the varieties of grapes that produce the finest wines. Visitors benefit from the fact that this secret is just being discovered, and they can still take a tour of Santa Barbara's wine country at a leisurely pace without the press of crowds.

It is exhilarating to venture into the back country and enjoy the rugged beauty of National Forest lands, home to everything from modern lakeside campgrounds to trackless wilderness, providing almost unlimited recreational choices for families. Returning to Santa Barbara from a day of hiking, there is the opportunity to ease back gradually into city life through a visit to the alpine village of Solvang. This is the county's "Little Denmark," with windmills, Tudor architecture, and a wealth of Scandinavian food and souvenirs.

Santa Barbara County offers an outstanding variety of cultural attractions, such as, theater, dance, art galleries and musical performances.

You don't need a car to enjoy downtown Santa Barbara because most everything, from shopping and dining to performances and historic attractions, is within walking distance. Walking through Santa Barbara on foot gives a close-up look at its distinctive architectural style. This style is largely the work of engineer Bernhard Hoffman, who founded the City Planning Commission and worked with other community organizations to enforce building codes and architectural standards early in the 20th century. Following a major earthquake, legislation was enacted to insure that all new construction would conform to modern safety guidelines. The new style that emerged was influenced by the architecture of Spain, but is a blend of genres, including Spanish, Mediterranean, and Moorish/Islamic. Its key features are the gleaming white stucco surfaces, the famous red tile roofs, courtyards, and the decorative wrought iron windows, light fixtures, and staircases.

A free electric shuttle runs every 10-15 minutes to all points of interest. Shopping is a major pastime on State street, which is lined with boutiques, cafÃ©s, bookstores, as well as toy and book stores of interest to children. On Brinkerhoff Avenue there are a large number of antique shops.

The beach is beautiful, the weather almost always perfect, and the people friendly. Many vacationers rent bikes and blades and travel up and down the beachfront path along Cabrillo Boulevard. The county draws surfers, hikers, naturalists, in-line skaters, mountain bikers, rock climbers, scuba divers and hang gliders, to mention a few. Santa Barbara has been described by many as " heaven on earth".

At one time a small, isolated military outpost, Santa Barbara has since become a world-famous resort. For thousands of years, amidst the protection of forbidding mountains and the Pacific ocean, the Chumash Indians lived an easy, comfortable life. The sea and the land around them contributed everything that was needed in order not only to survive but to flourish. In 1542 the first Europeans arrived. Juan Cabrillo, a Portuguese explorer, entered the Channel, claimed the land for Spain, and left. The Chumashs' next encounter with the Spanish came a century later when,on the eve of December 4, 1602,(the feast day of Santa Barbara) frigates under the command of Sabastian Vizcaino, a map maker for the Duke of Monte Rey, entered the Santa Barbara Channel, named the settlement, marked it on his map, and also left.

In 1782, the Spaniards returned for good. A group led by Governor Felipe de Neve, Captain Jose Ortega, and Father Junipero Serra, permanently settled in the area in order to establish a military presidio and mission and, in the process, founded the city of Santa Barbara. In the process of the Spaniards' teaching the native Americans to wear European clothing, to eat meat instead of their healthful diet of fruit, vegetables, nuts and fish, most the Chumash became ill and died. of European diseases. The Spaniards governed the area until 1822, when California became a Mexican territory. The United States took Santa Barbara from Mexico 24 years later, in 1846. Thus was created a melting pot of Chumash, Spanish, Mexican and North American languages and cultures.

Up until the late 1800's the serene, peaceful community of Santa Barbara was over looked by the rush of westward migrators. About that time word began to reach the east coast that there was a place in California called Santa Barbara which had attributes more valuable than gold or silver. It possessed an ideal climate, hot and cold springs, and a restful atmosphere. Many people began to converge on the little mission with a desire to recuperate from the stresses of life. Santa Barbara was touted as one of the most idyllic health spas to be found anywhere, attracting visitors from around the U.S. and beyond. Some came to relax and recharge and then left, others came and found they did not want to leave. Many of those who remained had money to invest, and the small, sleepy mission soon began showing signs of growth. Modern hotels and cultural centers were created. Presidents, kings and queens, the rich and the famous, all came from around the globe to bask in the beauty and culture that was now Santa Barbara.

In 1910, before Hollywood became the film capital of the world, Santa Barbara was the center of the motion picture industry. The American Film Company opened the Flying A Studio there. At that time and for several years thereafter, the studio was the largest of its kind in the world. In a ten year span over 1200 movies (mostly westerns) were made. Today, many film celebrities own homes in Santa Barbara. For them it was the perfect place to escape the glare of Hollywood, while at the same time be less than two hours away from their work.

Santa Barbara's architecture springs from the roots of its historic past. Splendid old adobes with court yards named after historical figures and Mediterranean style buildings found throughout the city, were inspired by the Spanish residences of the early years. The museums and cultural centers preserve much of the town's past. The Chumash (now restored to health and reestablished as a native American community), Hispanic, Mexican and North American influences are very much a part of life in this peaceful sanctuary.

Featured Attractions

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
1212 Mission Canyon Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
805-682-4726

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a great place to visit and enjoy the colorful beauty of nature. The 65-acre garden dates back to 1925 and features more than 1,000 species of native California plants, many of which are rare.

Santa Barbara Trolley
23 East Cabrillo Boulevard
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-879-7943

Climb aboard the Santa Barbara Old Town Trolley for a fully narrated tour of the area. Trolleys make stops every 90 minutes convenient to shopping, dining and attractions. By way of a trolley, you can explore several areas and attractions at your own pace, including: Butterfly Beach, Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Stearns Wharf, The Dolphin Fountain, Mission Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and the Andrea Clark Bird Refuge.

Truth Aquatics
301 West Cabrillo Boulevard
Santa Barbara, CA 93010
805-962-1127

Take a relaxing cruise with Truth Aquatics and enjoy the natural beauty of the Santa Barbara area. Enjoy scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, sunbathing, whale watching, photo-ops both above and below the water, or just lounging around and taking in the view. Some trips also include hiking on the Channel Islands National Park.

Santa Barbara Historical Museum
136 East De La Guerra Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-966-1601

Features a variety of exhibits that depict California’s natural surroundings from prehistoric times to the present.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse
1100 Anacapa Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-962-6464

Santa Barbara County Courthouse is Spanish-Moorish structure completed in 1929. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in the city and features hand painted ceilings, a spiral staircase, wrought iron chandeliers, imported tiles, carved doors and beautiful historical murals. Guided tours are available.

Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park
123 East Canon Perdido Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-965-0093

The Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park is located in the middle of downtown Santa Barbara. The nearly block-long complex of buildings represents the city's beginnings. Founded in 1782 by Lieutenant Jose Francisco de Ortega, the Royal Presidio was the last military outpost of the Spanish Empire in the New World. A 15-minute slide show explains the site’s history.

Cloud Climbers Jeep & Wine Tours
1417 Castillo Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93190
805-646-3200

Choose from wine country, mountain, and sunset tours.

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
113 Harbor Way #190
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
805-962-8404

The museum structure was formerly known as the Old Naval Reserve Center. Exhibits and artifacts depicting maritime life in Santa Barbara will astound you!

Santa Barbara Museum of Art
1130 State Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-963-4364

Features several nationally recognized collections and special exhibitions.

Santa Barbara Symphony
1900 State Street #G
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-898-9626

Call for schedule and ticket info.

Carriage and Western Arts Museum of Santa Barbara
129 Castillo Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-962-2353

Browse through the restored stage coaches and other western antiques as well as the largest collection of saddles anywhere around.

Santa Barbara Chamber Ballet
23 West Gutierrez Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-564-3568

Enjoy the ballet as young, pre-professional dancers glide across the stage during their classical ballet productions.

Santa Barbara County Communities:

Village of Solvang

The village of Solvang is a charming world of Scandinavian architecture, windmills, thatched roofs, and timbered Tudor facades. Solvang was established in 1911, and it is known as America’s “Little Denmark.” Treat yourself to an authentic Danish pastry as you stroll along the cobblestone streets and browse the art galleries, museums, and specialty stores.

Santa Ynez Valley

You’ll immediately feel yourself relax as you enter the Santa Ynez Valley, located just north of downtown Santa Barbara. The area’s countryside sports vineyards, sprawling cattle ranches and quiet country lanes. Visit the wineries, go fly-fishing, enjoy a picnic on Cachuma Lake or tour the historic town of Santa Ynez itself, founded in 1880.

Northern Santa Barbara County

In northern Santa Barbara County, the city of Lompoc is famous for its thriving floriculture and murals depicting the city’s rich history. Visit nearby Santa Maria for its tri-tip barbecue and aviation and historical museums. And you can’t leave the county without stopping by the Nature Conservancy site of Guadalupe, where ocean waves and brisk sea gusts have sculpted sand dunes as high as 500 feet.

Santa Barbara Zoo
500 Ninos Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
805-962-6310

The Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens is home to more than 700 animals living in lush garden settings. More than a half-million people visit the zoo annually.

Sea Center
211 Stearns Wharf
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-962-0885

The Sea Center is operated by the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. The Sea Center allows visitors to learn about the ecology of the Santa Barbara Channel. Kids will enjoy the Touch Tank, filled with saltwater creatures such as starfish and sea urchins. Exhibits include life-size models of California gray whales, diving marine birds and more.

Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara
117 B Harbor Way
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
805-899-4925

Take your family on a guided kayaking trip! Call for more info and scheduling.

Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and Library
122 West Canon Perdido Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93130
805-730-1707

Visit one of the largest displays of dolls and teddy bears in the U.S.!

Rancho Oso Guest Ranch & Stables
3750 Paradise Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93105
805-683-5110

Take a horseback tour and more with your family!

January

New Year’s Day Hang Gliding and Paragliding Festival
805-965-3733

Float in for hang gliders, paragliding, kites, hot air balloons, music and contest

March

Santa Barbara International Film Festival
805-963-0023

Held at various location patrons can enjoy the best from up and coming film makers.

April

Presidio Days
805-966-9719

This free, three-day multi-ethnic festival celebrates Santa Barbara's birthday with dancing, live entertainment, food and lectures.

May

Children's Festival
805-965-1001

Families will experience a day full of fun and adventure with face painting, pony rides, inflatable bouncers and children's craft workshops.

June

Summer Solstice Celebration
805-965-3396

There is no better way to kick off the summer in Santa Barbara than at the Summer Solstice celebration where patrons will enjoy mouth watering foods, a fabulous parade, an exciting children's area, arts and crafts and live entertainment.

July

Greek Festival
805-683-4492

Experience everything Greek without traveling out of the country. Enjoy Greek tradition and culture through food, music and dance.

Independence Day Celebration
805-564-0199

Throughout the city of Santa Barbara locals and visitors alike gather to celebrate our countries independence with parade, fireworks and fun around every corner.

August

Old Spanish Days
805-962-8101

Celebrate the community and culture of the American Indian, Spanish, Mexican and early American settlers as you learn their history, customs and traditions,

September

Santa Barbara Jazz Festival
800-480-FEST

Music lovers will drift away from the soft sounds of jazz ringing in their heads.

October

Artwalk
805-682-4711

Walk along the banks of Mission Creek as you explore the works of art, live music and delectable food.

November

Annual Holly Faire
805-963-3579

Holiday shopping extravaganza with homemade food including French bread and desserts to curb your appetite as you shop!

December

Holiday Parade
805-962-2098

This annual tradition is sure to warm your heart with treats, floats and Christmas cheer.

Trolley of Lights
805-965-0353

Santa Barbara pulls out all the stops during the holiday season with millions of lights adorning everything from building and home to trees and shrubs. Take a 90-minute tour on the trolley to see the city all aglow.

Population:

92,300+; The greater area of Santa Barbara County numbers 360,000+.

Time Zone:

Pacific

Climate:

Santa Barbara boasts a pleasant year-round climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s all year. Late summer high temperatures can climb into the 80s, but evening temperatures are cool all year long. The Santa Barbara county area receives about 18 inches of rainfall annually. Temperatures in the inland and mountain portions of the county average 15-20 degrees warmer during the day and cooler in the evenings.

Airport:

Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)
500 Fowler Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93117
805-967-7111

Rail:

Amtrak
800-USA-RAIL

Bus:

Greyhound
800-231-2222

Getting Around Santa Barbara:

Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District
City Bus
805-963-3364

Santa Barbara Trolley Co.
805-965-0353

Taxis:

Absolute Cab
805-898-0389

Crown Cab
805-689-0234

Orange Cab
805-964-2800

Rose Cab
805-564-2600

Yellow Cab
805-965-5111

Visitor Information:

Santa Barbara Conference & Visitors Bureau
1601 Anacapa Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-966-9222

Dining:

Chuck's Waterfront Grill
113 Harbor Way
Santa Barbara, CA 93019
805-564-1200

The Waterfront Grill is located on the Santa Barbara Harbor, and as such, offers a variety of fresh seafood. Try the seared ahi tuna or shrimp scampi, or perhaps you’d prefer a perfectly grilled steak or maybe a pasta dish.

Andersen’s Danish Bakery and Restaurant
1106 State Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-962-5085

Anderson’s Danish Bakery and Restaurant features an extensive menu, beginning with hearty breakfast choices and ending with a large selection of dinner entrees. Whether you want steak, seafood, chicken or schnitzel, you’re sure to find it here, along with mouth-watering desserts and pastries.

Epiphany
21 West Victoria Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-564-7100

Elegance and distinctive service in an intimate atmosphere while dining on gourmet cuisine! Call for dinner reservations.

Featured Destination Hotels

Fess Parker's Doubletree® Resort Santa Barbara

A 24-acre oceanfront resort with 360 oversized rooms. Every room has a patio and balcony offering views of the resort gardens, Santa Ynez Mountains or Pacific Ocean. The resort offers an array of amenities from tennis courts, putting green, shuffleboard to pool/jacuzzi hair salon and spa services. More Information..

Days Inn Santa Barbara

* Quiet Cozy Location * Just 1 block north of Santa Barbaras picturesque Yacht Harbor and spectacular Oceanfront lined with Palm trees * Sidewalk cafes and shops * Featuring Jacuzzi and Whirlpool areas * Complementary Continental Breakfast * All rooms are equipped with refrigerators, air conditioning, cable TV with HBO * Nearby are downtown state street, beaches, and the Old Mission. More Information..

Holiday Inn Santa Barbara-Goleta

Full service hotel with 160 rooms and four suites. Santa Barbara Hotel services include Remington's Restaurant offering a full buffet breakfast and an array of dinner entrees featuring dishes prepared with fresh local produce, dining "To Go", heated outdoor pool, valet service, coin operated laundry, complimentary morning coffee, weekday newspaper, complimentary airport shuttle, local fitness club, complimentary parking, and bus parking. This hotel is committed to providing accessible facilities under the American Disabilities Act. If your accessibility needs are not met, please contact the Hotel Manager on Duty. Should you require additional information regarding accessible facilities for guests with disabilities, please call 1-800-Holiday (U.S. and Canada) or contact the hotel directly. For the hearing impaired, TDD service is available at 1-800-238-5544 within the U.S. and Canada. More Information..

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