Attractions & Entertainment

Santa Barbara doesn’t skimp on the fun, especially when it comes to attractions and entertainment. From world-renowned gardens and unforgettable animal encounters to energizing live music and hands-on classes and tours, visitors are quick to discover a bevy of must-visit activities.

Gardens

The allure of Santa Barbara is hard to miss when you’re frolicking through the exotic gardens at Lotusland or discovering the wonder of over 1,000 native plants, trees, and flowers at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Take a step back in time at Casa Del Herrero where the flourishing landscape is just the beginning. And most visitors will agree, no trip to Santa Barbara is complete without smelling the roses at Old Mission Santa Barbara.

Zoo and Aquarium

Only in Santa Barbara do the animals get a sparkling, oceanfront view. With the sea in sight, a walk through the lush grounds of the Santa Barbara Zoo offers wild encounters with endangered species. At the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center on Stearns Wharf, get a peek underwater to see local marine life firsthand. For those brave enough, you can even pet a shark!

Live Music

Whether you enjoy indie bands or musical giants, Santa Barbara’s live music scene is hard to beat. With the ocean in sight of all 4,500 seats surrounded by stately oaks and natural rock formations, Santa Barbara Bowl is an intimate and picturesque amphitheater that hosts everyone from classic artists to current sensations.  For indoor venues, the Granada, Arlington, and Lobero Theatres serve up live music and special performances in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Historic Theatre District.

Classes & Tours

Get to know Santa Barbara from the guidance of local experts. Whether you’re a historian, artist, foodie, or adventurer, there’s a tour and class to match your interests. Want to taste local cuisine? Eat This, Shoot That! take visitors on a culinary expedition through Santa Barbara’s tastiest neighborhoods, while Totally Cali Tours offers walking tours that pair local history with local libations. For visitors looking for unique ways to see the sights, Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure transforms Santa Barbara into one big game board.

Attractions & Entertainment in Santa Barbara


Recommended

MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation

Ignite your mind at MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, Santa Barbara’s one-of-a-kind destination for hands-on scientific and creative experiences. Located in the flourishing Funk Zone neighborhood, MOXI invites kids, families…


Candle Bar 111

Candle Bar 111 offers a unique, immersive experience in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, where visitors can craft their own custom candles in a creative, welcoming environment. Located near popular wineries, breweries, and boutiques, Candle Bar 111…


Santa Barbara County Courthouse

For a firsthand look at one of the country’s most beautiful public buildings, look no further than the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Designed in the Spanish-Colonial style and completed in 1929, the fully operational Courthouse is an…


Old Mission Santa Barbara

Walk the halls of history at one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic sites, Old Mission Santa Barbara. With its grand bell towers, lush gardens and views of the San Ynez mountains and Pacific Ocean, the Mission is one of the city’s most…


Taco Tour Santa Barbara

Your Ultimate Destination for a Memorable Taco Tour Experience! Welcome to Taco Tour Santa Barbara, your premier destination for an unforgettable walking tour through Santa Barbara's culinary delights! Immerse yourself in a 1.5-mile journey,…


Totally Cali Tours of Santa Barbara

Totally Cali Tours delivers an authentic and in-depth Santa Barbara experience! Choose from History, Wine & Beer Tasting or Cultural tours of downtown Santa Barbara as well as our prestigious Wine Country. We also specialize in customized tours…


The Red Piano

The Red Piano is Santa Barbara’s premier destination for live music, vibrant socializing, and handcrafted cocktails. Our intimate and energetic venue features nightly performances from talented pianists and bands, creating the perfect…


Additional Experiences


Must Visit Museums & Attractions
Your essential guide to Santa Barbara’s top cultural attractions and iconic landmarks.
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