State Street is where history, shopping, dining, and entertainment come together like the perfect playlist. As you stroll, you’ll encounter a quirky mix of architecture-from Spanish Colonial Revival to Mission-inspired buildings-each with its own distinct charm. If you're in the mood for one-of-a-kind finds at local boutiques or indulging in classics like Apple, Levi’s, and Old Navy, there’s something to feed every shopping urge.

But hold up-this street’s got more than just retail indulgence. From cozy cafes to gourmet hot spots, the dining options here are as varied as your tastes. Fancy a quick snack? Or maybe a five-star feast? Whatever you’re craving, State Street’s got you covered. And if you’re looking to feed your soul instead, it doubles as a cultural hotspot, with live music, street festivals, and places like the Granada Theatre and local galleries. And for the kids, it’s a treasure trove of family-friendly activities-crafts, entertainment, and old-school fun.

With its blend of shopping, dining, and soaking in the local scene, State Street is by far more than just a street-it’s an experience. Regardless of whether it's a bit of shopping escapism, a tasty bite, or just a spot to kick back that you're after, this place has it all. It’s the kind of area you wouldn’t want to leave-so come for the shopping, stick around for the rest...

La Arcada Historic Courtyard is a captivating blend of art, shopping, dining, and historical charm. Established in 1926 in the Spanish Revival style, the space is designed for leisurely exploration. Visitors can enjoy tile-lined walkways, fountains, and sculptures that enhance the peaceful atmosphere. The iconic clock tower, inspired by a famous Chicago clock, stands out as one of the courtyard's key architectural highlights. Along with these, visitors can admire realistic statues, including playful bronze dolphins and a turtle fountain, perfect for snapping photos and interacting with the art.

The courtyard offers a diverse range of shopping options. Boutiques feature unique clothing, jewelry, home decor, and art, with local galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts by both established and emerging artists. For something out of the ordinary, the historic barbershop displays antique equipment, adding a quirky touch to your visit.

After some time spent browsing and exploring, a meal at one of the nearby eateries becomes a well-earned pleasure-perhaps Danish pastries from Andersen’s Bakery or the distinctive blend of French and Ethiopian flavors at Petit Valentien. The area also offers a variety of other dining choices, from California cuisine to Italian dishes and decadent French chocolate, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every taste.

Old Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786, is often referred to as the “Queen of the Missions” for its setting and architecture. The front façade, with its twin bell towers and classical Ionic columns, faces a wide open lawn and rose garden. Remnants of the original aqueduct and outbuildings still stand nearby. Behind the main entrance, a series of self-guided paths leads through the Sacred Garden, the historic cemetery, and a stone church completed in 1820. Inside the church, Chumash-painted details and decorative altarpieces highlight the mission’s layered past.

The grounds also include a nine-room museum housed in former living quarters. Exhibits feature Chumash baskets, reconstructed colonial interiors, early photographs, and earthquake damage from 1925. Juana María-whose story inspired Island of the Blue Dolphins-is buried behind the bell tower, among the graves of early settlers and thousands of unmarked Chumash burials. The mission continues to serve as an active parish and Franciscan residence.

Tips:
Photography is allowed in all tour areas, but restrictions may apply to garden areas that are on City property.

Arlington Plaza presents a compact yet varied collection of retail, dining, and cultural offerings, arranged around landscaped walkways and shaded outdoor seating. Its storefronts include locally owned destinations such as DIANI Boutique, DIANI Shoes, and DIANI Living, offering fashion, home goods, and design objects with a distinctive regional aesthetic. The plaza also features The Travel Store and Marisa Mason Jewelry, offering handcrafted accessories and unique gifts, while Blossom Salon contributes a personal care option to the overall mix.

Several dining spots anchor the plaza's atmosphere of casual gathering. Renaud’s Patisserie & Bistro serves French-inspired breakfast and lunch fare, while Carlitos Café y Cantina provides Mexican cuisine with patio seating that faces the plaza’s interior. The restaurant’s patio often features live music that complements the plaza’s steady rhythm.

Paseo Nuevo is where history meets a shopping spree, blending old-world charm with a modern twist. Opened in 1990, this open-air center is draped in Spanish Colonial Revival style, making you feel like you’re wandering through a vintage postcard. With 458,000 square feet of space and pedestrian-friendly paths, it’s easy to wander, browse, and pretend you’re in a shopping dream. Over 50 stores-including the likes of Sephora, Victoria’s Secret, and American Eagle-sit alongside local treasures like Angie’s Boutique and Maker's Market. In short, it’s a retail wonderland.

But hold onto your shopping bags-there’s more than just retail therapy here. Grab a quick bite at California Pizza Kitchen or indulge in gourmet burgers at Eureka! Your taste buds will be just as entertained. If you're a sweet tooth, Le Macaron’s French pastries, Oak Berry’s acai bowls, and Pressed Juicery’s fresh juice will keep you happily snacking. For those who crave culture with their shopping, the Museum of Contemporary Art is just upstairs, and the center hosts outdoor markets and kids’ activities to keep everyone entertained.

Come to think of it, Paseo Nuevo isn’t just a place to shop-it’s where shopping, dining, and culture blend seamlessly in the best way possible. Nestled in the historic Paseo de la Guerra complex (yep, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places), it’s got more history than your high school textbook and more fun than you can shake a shopping bag at. You’re guaranteed an experience that’s anything but run-of-the-mill-prepare for something truly remarkable!

The Moreton Bay Fig Tree isn’t just any tree-it’s nature’s own giant, standing tall at 80 feet with a canopy that stretches over 170 feet. This beauty is now one of the largest fig trees in the U.S. It's basically a tree that could’ve starred in its own action movie, offering up a serious dose of history, nature, and shade, all in one. Perfect for photographers, nature buffs, or anyone looking to be awestruck by the sheer scale of things.

But the story doesn’t start with its towering presence. This tree began life as a seedling in 1876, planted by a young girl, and moved to its current home by a friend. It has since grown into a registered historical landmark in the city of Santa Barbara. With a plaque at the base offering some background information, it's as much a history lesson as it is a natural wonder. And once you're done taking it all in, the expansive canopy is ready to provide the perfect spot for a chill picnic, or just to kick back and enjoy the view.

Stearns Wharf: where history, ocean breezes, and a whole lot of fun collide. Built in 1872 to handle steamships, this wharf has transformed from a working pier into a vibrant hangout spot. With jaw-dropping views of the coastline, harbor, and mountains, it’s the kind of place where you can truly take it all in.

Craving a bite? Stearns Wharf has the goods. Moby Dick’s and Santa Barbara Shellfish Company serve up fresh seafood, while Longboards Grill and Char West bring you classic comfort with a side of ocean breeze. And if you’re looking for something fancier, the Harbor Restaurant has steak and a full bar-basically, the perfect way to make your taste buds and your Instagram feed happy at the same time.

Still, there’s more to this wharf than what’s on the menu-it’s an immersive experience packed with surprises. The Sea Center offers hands-on exhibits for anyone ready to geek out over marine life, or you can grab a fishing rod at Stearns Wharf Bait & Tackle. And if you're feeling extra mysterious, Madame Roskinkas is here to tell your fortune-because why not add a dash of magic to your day?

For a little shopping, it’s a treasure hunt. Score unique gifts at Nature’s Own Gift Shop, indulge your sweet tooth at Mother Steams Candy Shop, or treat yourself to a scoop at the Great Pacific Ice Cream Company. And if you’re into sunsets, Stearns Wharf is where the sky puts on its best show.

Stearns Wharf isn’t just a pit stop-it’s an all-in-one adventure. From feasting on seafood to soaking in the views, shopping, and exploring, it’s got everything you need for a fun-filled day. So, if you’re looking for great treats, upbeat atmosphere, or just a perfect spot to unwind, Stearns Wharf delivers it all with style.

The Santa Barbara Waterfront offers a scenic stretch of coastline featuring several distinct beaches such as East Beach, Leadbetter Beach, and Butterfly Beach. Each provides its own appeal-volleyball courts and surfing waves at East and Leadbetter, and calm spots ideal for sunset views at Butterfly Beach. The Cabrillo Bike Path runs alongside the shore, connecting these beaches and allowing visitors to enjoy the ocean breeze and palm-lined paths. Nearby, Shoreline Park presents panoramic views of the coastline and the Santa Ynez Mountains, offering picnic areas to pause and take in the surroundings.

Along the harbor, the area buzzes with boating and watersports opportunities including kayak and paddleboard rentals, fishing trips, and whale watching tours. Stearns Wharf, a historic pier, offers shops and dining with views over the harbor and ocean. The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum adds a cultural dimension with exhibits on local maritime history and marine life. For a bit of adventure, the short hike down Thousand Steps leads to Leadbetter Beach, a favored spot for local surfers catching consistent waves. The Waterfront combines natural beauty, outdoor activity, and dining, creating a well-rounded destination to enjoy the coast.

Santa Barbara Harbor blends maritime activity with coastal scenery in a setting anchored by working docks, open-air restaurants, and public walkways. Charter boats line the slips, offering seasonal whale watching tours, fishing trips, and sunset cruises along the channel. The harbor is also a launch point for kayaking, paddleboarding, and diving, with local outfitters providing rentals and equipment. Santa Barbara Landing serves as a hub for many of these outings. Inland from the docks, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum occupies a former Naval Reserve building and features hands-on exhibits, historic vessels, and fourth-floor views of the coastline. Nearby, the Saturday Fisherman’s Market attracts seafood buyers and visitors eager to see the day’s fresh catch.

Past the commercial zone, a long breakwater path stretches into the ocean, offering views of the harbor, mountains, and nearby Sandspit Beach-a quiet spot known for its city-facing shoreline and seabird flocks. Stearns Wharf, just south of the main harbor, combines coastal dining and small shops with the Sea Center, a marine science museum. The harbor’s restaurants vary from rooftop lounges to casual cafes, including Brophy Bros., On the Alley, Breakwater, and the Shoreline Café just beyond the main docks. Coffee spots and seafood counters round out the offerings, supporting both daily harbor life and occasional festivals like the Harbor & Seafood Festival in October and the holiday Parade of Lights in December.