Nestled between the shimmering Pacific Ocean and the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara, California, is a coastal city that radiates charm and elegance. Known as the "American Riviera," Santa Barbara offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a vibrant food and wine scene. There are a plethora of things to do in Santa Barbara, from exploring historic sites and museums to indulging in world-class cuisine and wine, partaking in outdoor adventures, and enjoying the lively music and nightlife. Whether you're a foodie, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or shopaholic, you'll never run out of things to do in Santa Barbara.

Food & Drink in Santa Barbara

As you discover the myriad of things to do in Santa Barbara, make sure to savor the city's food and drink scene. Known for its fresh, farm-to-table cuisine and award-winning wines, Santa Barbara is a gastronomic paradise. Start your culinary journey at The Lark, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Located in the heart of the Funk Zone, The Lark offers innovative dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. For wine lovers, a visit to Santa Barbara Winery, the city's oldest winery, is a must. Here you can sample a variety of wines, including the region's renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. As one local puts it, "Exploring the food and wine scene is definitely one of the top things to do in Santa Barbara. Every bite and sip here is a celebration of the region's rich bounty."

Best Museums in Santa Barbara

Among the many cultural things to do in Santa Barbara, exploring the city's museums is a must. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of American, European, and Asian art. Another must-visit is the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, which provides fascinating insights into the city's maritime history. For history enthusiasts, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the city's past through its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. As a local historian notes, "Visiting museums is one of the best things to do in Santa Barbara. It's a great way to appreciate the city's rich cultural and historical heritage."

Outdoor Adventures in Santa Barbara

For those who love the great outdoors, there are plenty of adventurous things to do in Santa Barbara. Hike the scenic trails of Los Padres National Forest or enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Pacific Ocean from Inspiration Point. For water sports enthusiasts, Santa Barbara offers excellent conditions for surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. You can also explore the stunning Channel Islands National Park, often referred to as the "Galapagos of North America." As a seasoned adventurer remarks, "From hiking and surfing to wildlife viewing, the outdoor activities are among the top things to do in Santa Barbara. There's always an adventure waiting around every corner."

Must-See Tours & Attractions

Santa Barbara is brimming with must-see attractions. One of the top things to do in Santa Barbara is to visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, known as the "Queen of the Missions." For a unique experience, take a scenic drive along the iconic Highway 1 or embark on a whale watching tour with Condor Express. Don't forget to visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, a 78-acre living museum featuring an impressive collection of California native plants. As a seasoned traveler remarks, "Exploring the city's attractions is one of the most rewarding things to do in Santa Barbara. Each place tells a unique story about the city's charm and character."

Festivals & Events You Can’t Miss

One of the most exciting things to do in Santa Barbara is attending its vibrant festivals and events. The Santa Barbara International Film Festival draws film enthusiasts from around the world. The Old Spanish Days Fiesta is a week-long celebration of the city's cultural heritage, featuring parades, music, dance, and food. The Summer Solstice Celebration is another must-see event, famous for its creative parade and community arts festival. As one festival-goer puts it, "Experiencing Santa Barbara's festivals and events is one of the most fun things to do in Santa Barbara. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the city's lively spirit and rich traditions."

Music & Nightlife Hotspots

When it comes to music and nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Santa Barbara. Enjoy live music at the historic Santa Barbara Bowl, which hosts performances by renowned artists. For those who love jazz, SOhO Restaurant & Music Club is a must-visit. If you're into craft cocktails, head to The Good Lion, a stylish cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks. As one local musician notes, "Exploring the city's music and nightlife scene is one of the most exciting things to do in Santa Barbara. There's always something happening, from live music gigs to vibrant nightlife spots."

Where to Shop in Santa Barbara

For shopaholics, there are plenty of things to do in Santa Barbara. The city's shopping scene offers a wide array of options, from high-end boutiques to unique local shops. Head to State Street for a mix of popular retail stores and unique local boutiques. The Funk Zone is another great shopping destination, known for its art galleries, local crafts, and artisan shops. As one local shopper puts it, "Shopping is one of the best things to do in Santa Barbara. It's a great way to discover the city's creative spirit and support local businesses."

Local Sports & Stadium Experiences

For sports fans, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Santa Barbara. Catch a game at the UCSB's Harder Stadium, known for its electrifying college soccer matches. Enjoy a round of golf at the scenic Sandpiper Golf Club, or try your hand at polo at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. As one sports enthusiast notes, "Watching a game or playing a round of golf is one of the most thrilling things to do in Santa Barbara. It's a great way to experience the city's vibrant sports culture."

Theatre & Performing Arts in Santa Barbara

Among the cultural things to do in Santa Barbara, experiencing the city's vibrant performing arts scene is a must. Watch a play at the historic Lobero Theatre, or enjoy a ballet performance at the Granada Theatre. The Ensemble Theatre Company at the New Vic offers a diverse lineup of plays, musicals, and special events. As one theatre-goer remarks, "Experiencing a live performance is one of the most enriching things to do in Santa Barbara. It's a great way to appreciate the city's rich artistic talent and creativity."