Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Santa Maria, California

Day 1: Santa Maria Exploration

Santa Maria, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Don Pedro’s Mexican Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Don Pedro’s, where their $5 breakfast burrito will fuel your adventures.
Walk 10 minutes to the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum.
USD5, 1 hour

9:15AM

Visit Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum

Explore interactive exhibits perfect for all ages at this hands-on museum that sparks curiosity and creativity.
Walk 10 minutes to the Santa Maria Historical Society.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Tour Santa Maria Historical Society

Delve into the rich history of the region at this museum that showcases artifacts and stories from the past.
Walk 15 minutes to Presto Pasta for lunch.
USD10, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Presto Pasta

Treat yourself to a budget-friendly meal with their famous pasta dishes that typically range from $7 to $10.
Walk to Allan Hancock College for campus strolling.
USD0, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll Around Allan Hancock College

Enjoy the beautiful campus grounds and find a cozy spot to relax or engage with local students.
Bicycle or walk to Waller Park.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Waller Park

Waller Park's serene environment is perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature with free walking trails.
Walk or bike back to your accommodation.
USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Tacos El Rey

Indulge in delicious street tacos priced at around $2 each for a filling meal without draining your wallet.
Return to your accommodation after dinner.
USD8, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature & Culture

Santa Maria, California

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Pantry

Enjoy a classic American breakfast at The Pantry, where you can get a hearty meal for around $7.
Walk to the Santa Maria Museum of Flight.
USD7, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Santa Maria Museum of Flight

Discover the fascinating history of aviation at this gem with various aircraft displays, all for a nominal fee.
Take a city bus or walk to the local farmers market.
USD5, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Santa Maria Farmers Market

Savor a light lunch from food stalls offering fresh local produce and quick bites ranging from $5 to $10.
Walk to the Santa Maria Public Library.
USD0, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Santa Maria Public Library

Discover a vast collection of books and participate in community events while enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Walk to the nearest bus stop for transport to Orcutt.
USD1.50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tour Orcutt Community Park

Enjoy a few hours in Orcutt Park, with walking trails and lovely picnic spots that are free to the public.
Walk to the bus stop and return to Santa Maria.
USD1.50, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Jocko's

Savor Jocko's famous tri-tip sandwich, perfect for dinner, priced under $10.
Return to your accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour
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Day 3: Relaxation and Reflection

Santa Maria, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Lido

Treat yourself to Café Lido's breakfast specials, which offer great portions for about $8.
Take a short walk to the Santa Maria Civic Center.
USD8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Santa Maria Civic Center

Stroll around the Civic Center area and take in local art installations and outdoor spaces.
Walk to the nearby Santa Maria Town Center.
USD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Starbucks (inside Santa Maria Town Center)

Grab a quick bite or a sandwich with a drink at affordable rates, typically around $8.
Explore the Town Center for some shopping.
USD8, 2 hours

2:30PM

Walk Around Santa Maria Town Center

Enjoy window shopping, people-watching, and local art displays in the mall area.
Take City Transit to the Santa Maria Regional Airport.
USD1.50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Santa Maria Regional Airport

Check out the unique aviation art displays and maybe take a peek at the planes that come and go.
Take a bus back to your accommodation.
USD1.50, 1 hour

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Natural Café

Enjoy a wholesome meal featuring fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors with entrée options around $10.
Walk back to your accommodation to reflect on your adventures.
USD10, 1 hour
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