Quick Links
The Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for the California city of Santa Barbara. Visitors come to the city that calls itself the "American Riviera," thanks to its downtown beaches, Spanish-style architecture, and mild, Mediterranean climate. Considering the abundance of attractions in Santa Barbara, visitors may find themselves automatically getting into their cars each day. But don't worry; one doesn't need a car to have a memorable day in Santa Barbara, where activities like wine tasting and bicycling along the beachfront are standard fare.
Travelers won't miss having a car at all during their stay in Santa Barbara thanks to the city's pleasant walkable and rideable neighborhoods, the abundance of public transportation options (trains, pedicabs, trolley, etc.), the proximity of the Amtrak station to the beach, and the wealth of information provided by Santa Barbara Car Free.
Stroll Along State Street And Funk Zone
For those who want to be in the middle of all the action in Downtown Santa Barbara, State Street is the place to be. The absence of vehicular traffic on the street makes it ideal for pedestrians to stroll, window-shop, dine, and imbibe in peace. One of the most remarkable ways to enjoy the revitalized State Street Promenade is to visit the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market, held on State Street between the 600 and 700 blocks every Tuesday from 2:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
At this visually stunning event, about fifty local farmers and artisans will sell their wares. Check over the area, and see restaurants loading up on seasonal ingredients for the week's specials. In addition, from 3 to 7 o'clock every Thursday, State Street becomes a local marketplace where residents and tourists meet and browse the wares of local artisans. Experience pop-up light shows and art exhibits while shopping for unique items in the city's heart.
Another popular spot to take a stroll in Santa Barbara is the Funk Zone. There has been a recent explosion of hip eateries, coffee shops, art galleries, and boutiques in this area, conveniently situated near the Amtrak station and the beach. Converted warehouses and structures decorated with graffiti art and modern artwork distinguish this dynamic area. Here you may find upcoming chefs, winemakers, and surfboard shapers. Some of the local attractions include art galleries, shopping for antiques and contemporary furnishings at The Blue Door, and wine tasting at the hip Municipal Winemakers, whose wine club is affectionately named Club Awesome.
Explore The Paseo Nuevo And La Arcada Shopping Districts
Walking south on State Street leads to the Paseo Nuevo and La Arcada shopping districts. These two districts' shopping, dining, and art scenes are well-known. The outdoor shopping center Paseo Nuevo features a wide variety of stores and restaurants, Spanish-style architecture, and charming gardens. Visitors who need a break from shopping can enjoy performances at the Center Stage Theatre or view works by contemporary artists at the Museum of Contemporary Art, both of which are housed within the mall.
With its tiled walkways and Spanish-style plaza, La Arcada is a beautiful place to peruse galleries and boutiques before eating at one of Santa Barbara's renowned restaurants. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is a short walk away, near the corner of State Street and W. Anapamu Street, and the La Granada Theatre is just a few blocks away.
Take A Relaxed Bike Ride To Santa Barbara Mission
One of the most relaxing things to do in Santa Barbara is to rent bicycles and ride them throughout the city, visiting the many museums, galleries, and stores. La Arcada is only a mile and a half away from the Santa Barbara Mission, perched on a hill on Laguna Street, and is a delightful bike ride from the city center.
Discover the cultural, theological, and historical significance of the California missions by visiting this must-see landmark, founded by Spanish Franciscans in 1786 and accessible via guided or self-directed tours. Visitors can ride an electric bike for $7 an hour or with a monthly or annual membership from any of the many BCycle docking stations dotted across the city and along State Street.
Go Wine Tasting In Santa Ynez Valley On A Shuttle
Santa Barbara's wine shuttle is formidable. Typically, companies such as Destination Vine, Rooted Vine Tours, Coastal Concierge, and Stagecoach Co. Wine Tours offer group or private transportation to Santa Ynez Valley's wine hotspots.
Relax and refresh with a glass of wine while exploring the alluring valley from the charming, tiny gem of rural Ballard to the bustling gateway city of Buellton, the vintage western town of Los Alamos, the arts-influenced wine-infused village of Los Olivos, and the turn-of-the-century township of Santa Ynez, to the northern European atmosphere of the Danish-American-founded city of Solvang.
Another option is the I Bike Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours, a hit for individuals who wish to work up a sweat and traverse a varied route. After being picked up by a bus in Santa Barbara, guests bike a 15-mile round, stopping at wineries and tastings along the way. A ticket costs $149, and the trip takes approximately seven hours.