Cityscape of Santa Barbara - A One-Day Itinerary

  1. 10:00AM: Santa Barbara Courthouse
    20 minutes (0.9 miles) from Santa Barbara Pier

    Experience the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture of Santa Barbara Courthouse. The Art Deco building with beautiful murals and fine tiles is a great place to start the day. Enjoy stunning views of the city from the top of the clock tower.

  2. 12:00PM: Santa Barbara Museum of Art
    4 minutes (0.2 miles) from the Courthouse

    The Santa Barbara Museum of Art features various art styles and periods from Mexico, Asia, and Europe. The place houses collections of rare French and American impressionist paintings that can take your breath away.

  3. 2:00PM: Old Mission Santa Barbara
    15 minutes (2.5 miles) from Santa Barbara Museum of Art

    Old Spanish-style Mission Santa Barbara is a historical landmark that's been around since the late 1700s. The Museum has got a beautiful lush garden and a vibrant collection of Chumash Native American artifacts, carvings, and brick archways.

  4. 5:00PM: Stearns Wharf
    10 minutes (3.3 miles) from Old Mission Santa Barbara

    A commercial pier on the west coast that is over 146 years old, is the perfect way to end your day. Explore the shops and grab some souvenirs or enjoy seafood and watch the sunset along with the beautiful view.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Santa Barbara Courthouse (2 hours, free)
  • Santa Barbara Museum of Art (2 hours, $10 admission)
  • Old Mission Santa Barbara (3 hours, $12 admission)
  • Stearns Wharf (2 hours, varies)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $22 per person.

Useful Tips

If you have more time consider visiting the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, the Santa Barbara Zoo, or plan adventures such as hiking trails and wine tours. But if you’re in a hurry, you can skip the Museum altogether and visit more of Santa Barbara's beaches, go whale watching from Stearns Wharf, or simply relax at the beach.

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