Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Santa Barbara, CA
Year Listed: 2009
Santa Barbara is known as “the American Riviera” due to the similarities to the look and lifestyle of the French and Italian Riviera.
Credit: Jim Corwin
Santa Barbara is often called "the American Riviera", and this premier resort destination with its idyllic, year-round climate and breadth of attractions delivers on its reputation. The sun-drenched, coastal paradise features white-washed buildings with red tile roofs, acres of lush landscaping and laid-back beaches, plus iconic historic landmarks, cultural venues, culinary delights and world-class accommodations of the caliber usually reserved for a major metropolis.
Architecture & History
Santa Barbara's eclectic architecture – a blend that reflects Spanish, Moorish, Portuguese and American Indian roots – is evident throughout. In the heart of downtown is the 1929 Santa Barbara County Courthouse. A National Historic Landmark, the building includes numerous impressive details: a Roman triumphal arch, gorgeous sunken gardens and an 80-foot clock tower offering 360-degree views of the city and surrounding
mountains and ocean. El Presidio State Historic Park, the last Spanish military outpost in California, Casa de la Guerra, and other historic adobes provide a glimpse into life during the Spanish and Mexican periods of Santa Barbara's history. Just north of downtown is Mission Santa Barbara—the "Queen" of California's 21 historic missions and home to the largest statues ever made by California Indians. Many of the city's 70-plus designated landmarks can be accessed on the self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour, which encompasses a 12-block area of downtown.
Where to Shop, Eat, Stay & Play
Santa Barbara is a Mecca for outdoor pursuits, and it also offers unforgettable dining, lodging and shopping. Its pedestrian-friendly enclaves, which are filled with quaint cobbled arcades, bubbling fountains, and towering palms, reveal distinct offerings by local boutiques, specialty shops and artisan galleries. The city has also evolved into a dynamic food center where seasoned chefs create fine cuisine based on local ingredients and partner each meal with world-class wines from the Santa Maria, Santa Ynez, and Lompoc Valleys. Santa Barbara's diverse lodging options have something for every budget, including luxurious waterfront resorts, historic bed-and-breakfast inns and the original Motel 6 (#1).
Going Green
Eco-tourists will feel at home, alternative fuel vehicles are ever present, and the local transit district operates North America's largest fleet of battery electric vehicles. Tourists can also obtain a wide range of car-free travel itineraries that include walking tours and scenic rides along Santa Barbara's miles of bike paths.
Interested in visiting Santa Barbara? Check out their Conference & Visitors Bureau. Stay at an Historic Hotel of America.
Now it's your turn! Share your experiences or impressions of this Distinctive Destination: Unique restaurants, sights, family-friendly activities, hang outs, art galleries... tell visitors what they shouldn't miss!
Submitted by Sandy at: January 24, 2009
Santa Barbara is one of my favorite destinations. In addition to everything else there is a great farmers market, on Tuesday beginning at 5pm I believe. There's just so much to see and do. Enjoy!
Submitted by Dave at: January 15, 2009
Lotusland is an amazing collection of so many beautiful plants first started in 1882, but significantly added to by Ganna Walska from 1941-1984. It is one of the best kept secrets of the Santa Barbara - Montecito area, but definitely worth the time spent exploring all the incredible grounds and different gardens. Be aware that you must schedule your visit ahead of time.
Submitted by Dorothy at: January 14, 2009
A must-see would be the Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens. Its beautiful 30 acre grounds were donated to the City by the Santa Barbara Foundation who had cared for it and its residents for some years after it was gifted to the Foundation by its primary resident Mrs. John (Lillian) Child. Even though she still lived there, she had made it a home for the homeless, and even they were taken care of by the City after her death. It become known as the Child's Estate.
Submitted by Neal at: January 13, 2009
The Granada Theatre in Santa Barbara is an architectural marvel. The building was just completed before a fantastic earthquake. The Granada has been recently restored while maintaining its historical integrity. The professional shows and historic integrity make this a must-see in Santa Barbara.