7 Unique Museums in Santa Barbara
From haute couture to model locomotives, Santa Barbara’s museums are anything but ordinary.
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Itinerary Category: Arts & Culture
Plan Your Santa Barbara Adventure Based on Your Zodiac Sign
From relaxing outings to thrill-seeking adventures, the stars might just know exactly what your soul craves on your next Santa Barbara vacation.
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Top 10 Must-See Murals in Santa Barbara
While Santa Barbara is known for its natural landscapes and Spanish-style charm, it’s also a vibrant hub for public art.
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Top Bookstores in Santa Barbara
Whether you’re searching for a rare find, a bestseller or the cozy charm of a beloved bookshop, these local gems offer experiences beyond the pages.
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5 Reasons to Catch a Concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl
One of the most iconic concert venues along the California coast, the Santa Barbara Bowl is an outdoor amphitheater surrounded by 17 stunning acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The venue seats up to 4,562 people, offering plenty of room to dance and a fantastic view wherever you’re seated.
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Katy Perry’s Must-Visit Places in Santa Barbara
American pop sensation and American Idol judge, Katy Perry, has deep roots in the idyllic coastal city of Santa Barbara.
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Exploring Orchids in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara’s mild climate makes it ideal for orchid farming. Uncover the city’s history with orchids, as well as information on local farms and the annual orchid show.
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Guide to Nightlife in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, a city renowned for its stunning coastline and Spanish-style architecture, also boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife that caters to every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed evening at the theater or a night out exploring local cocktail lounges, bars and nightclubs, each of these venues offer a unique glimpse into the city’s eclectic social scene.
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Historic Hotels in Santa Barbara
Unveil the captivating history of some of Santa Barbara’s most iconic and storied hotels, where the allure of this coastal city has beckoned travelers for generations. In the aftermath of the 1925 earthquake, many of Santa Barbara’s historic hotels were reborn, each with its unique story of resilience and revival.
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7 Popular Santa Barbara Artists You Need to Know
Art can be found in many different forms throughout this vibrant seaside city, but it’s the artists behind the paintbrush that truly bring the essence of Santa Barbara to the canvas.
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The Definitive Guide to Live Music in Santa Barbara
Aside from its natural beauty, world-famous wines and countless landmarks rich with history, the Santa Barbara South Coast also prides itself on being a lively destination for live music—from local artists to internationally recognized stars. Put on your dancing shoes and read on for a roundup of some of the best live music venues in the area.
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Artisan Marketplaces in Santa Barbara
In Santa Barbara, there are several enticing creative marketplaces, arts and craft shows and cooperative boutiques where you can discover a broad variety of objects and artworks made locally.
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Must-Visit Museums & Attractions
Santa Barbara’s distinctive collection of museums and cultural attractions are essential to the fabric of the community. They teach, inspire, entertain and some even transport us back in time. They are uniquely Santa Barbaran and tell stories…
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Around the World in Santa Barbara
With a little creativity and imagination, it is possible to get a travel fix with some international flavor within the borders of the Santa Barbara County lines. To start, Santa Barbara has long been considered “The American Riviera®” given the…
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Educational Experiences in Santa Barbara
When the family is yearning for an outdoor escape complete with educational offerings, stay and play within the Santa Barbara South Coast, where the opportunity to learn abounds and the sunshine will brighten your spirits. From outdoor museums to…
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Red Tile Walking Tour
There's no denying that Santa Barbara's skyline, peppered with white stucco walls and red-tiled roofs, provides the city with a striking backdrop of style and charm. And while the buildings may look similar to one another, each structure has its own…
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Reading Over Streaming
We challenge you to a digital detox! Rather than picking up your trusted digital device, we encourage you to instead grab a book and give your eyes a well-deserved screen break. Whether you're on vacation in Santa Barbara or spending quality time at…
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A Sublime Santa Barbara Culture Itinerary
Immerse yourself in Santa Barbara culture through a walkable day of discovery. From native-plant landscapes and historic adobes to world-class art and downtown landmarks, this itinerary spotlights attractions with historical significance and natural…
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Movie Magic in Santa Barbara
Filmmakers have historically been drawn to Santa Barbara’s mild climate and diverse landscapes that could double for faraway lands like Africa and Europe. Hundreds of silent films and westerns were produced locally before the industry relocated and planted permanent roots in Hollywood.
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Guide to Old Spanish Days Fiesta
Old Spanish Days Fiesta has reigned as the summer event that locals and visitors alike look forward to each August in Santa Barbara.
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Santa Barbara’s Museum Mile
Downtown Santa Barbara is a mecca for arts and culture. The classic Spanish heritage and stunning natural landscape of The American Riviera® has inspired all types of artists. Pair your art walk with fresh, local flavors and enjoy the finer things…
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Santa Barbara Gift Guide
Holiday shopping in The American Riviera® is easy as pie thanks to the incredible array of independent retailers and quality wares crafted by local artisans.
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5-Day Family Vacation
Looking for family fun? Use this itinerary to plan the perfect five-day family vacation in the city known as The America’s Riviera®.
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Walking Tour with Architect Jeff Shelton
Jeff Shelton’s playful architecture reminds us there’s absolutely nothing stuffy or staid about The American Riviera®.
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10+ Instagram-Worthy Locations
Around every corner and through each paseo, treat your eyes to a visual feast when traveling to Santa Barbara. With sparkling shorelines, Spanish-infused architecture, opulent gardens and sunsets that are worthy of being branded #nofilter, this is a…
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