Santa Barbara Shopping Tour (Self Guided), Santa Barbara
Shopping in Santa Barbara, California is a serious affair! To those who may take it lightly, one can say (jokingly paraphrasing Oscar Wilde) that it is so shallow of them:) Indeed, from boutique-lined streets to charming courtyards, this coastal city boasts a wide retail spectrum, spanning from world-class stores to a multitude of local crafts shops fit to please even the most discerning and meticulous consumers.
Wonderful outdoor paseos, shadowed plazas, and long brick sidewalks make shopping in Santa Barbara the most enjoyable way to spend your free time. Let's take a stroll through some of the notable spots and see what they are.
State Street is the bustling heart of Santa Barbara's shopping scene. Stretching from the beach to the foothills, it's a vibrant mix of high-end retailers, unique boutiques, and delightful eateries. Paseo Nuevo, an outdoor shopping center nestled along State Street, is a prime spot for fashion enthusiasts, featuring popular brands and local boutiques.
For those seeking art and culture, the La Arcada Historic Courtyard is a hidden gem. This charming enclave houses art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, making it the perfect place to explore Santa Barbara's creative side. Bella Rosa Galleries, located in this courtyard, showcases a stunning collection of fine art and jewelry that's sure to captivate art aficionados.
Arlington Plaza is another shopping destination worth exploring. It's a chic retail district where you can find upscale boutiques, offering everything from fashion to home decor. And don't forget Santa Barbara Cigar and Tobacco, where cigar enthusiasts can indulge in a wide selection of cigars and accessories.
If you have a sweet tooth, Chocolate Maya is a must-visit. This artisanal chocolate shop slightly off State Street offers delectable handmade chocolates and truffles that are simply irresistible.
So, wait no more! Come and explore the retailing delights Santa Barbara has to offer, and let the shopping adventures begin!
Wonderful outdoor paseos, shadowed plazas, and long brick sidewalks make shopping in Santa Barbara the most enjoyable way to spend your free time. Let's take a stroll through some of the notable spots and see what they are.
State Street is the bustling heart of Santa Barbara's shopping scene. Stretching from the beach to the foothills, it's a vibrant mix of high-end retailers, unique boutiques, and delightful eateries. Paseo Nuevo, an outdoor shopping center nestled along State Street, is a prime spot for fashion enthusiasts, featuring popular brands and local boutiques.
For those seeking art and culture, the La Arcada Historic Courtyard is a hidden gem. This charming enclave houses art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, making it the perfect place to explore Santa Barbara's creative side. Bella Rosa Galleries, located in this courtyard, showcases a stunning collection of fine art and jewelry that's sure to captivate art aficionados.
Arlington Plaza is another shopping destination worth exploring. It's a chic retail district where you can find upscale boutiques, offering everything from fashion to home decor. And don't forget Santa Barbara Cigar and Tobacco, where cigar enthusiasts can indulge in a wide selection of cigars and accessories.
If you have a sweet tooth, Chocolate Maya is a must-visit. This artisanal chocolate shop slightly off State Street offers delectable handmade chocolates and truffles that are simply irresistible.
So, wait no more! Come and explore the retailing delights Santa Barbara has to offer, and let the shopping adventures begin!
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Santa Barbara Shopping Tour Map
Guide Name: Santa Barbara Shopping Tour
Guide Location: USA » Santa Barbara (See other walking tours in Santa Barbara)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 7
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Author: HollyZ
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Santa Barbara (See other walking tours in Santa Barbara)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 7
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Author: HollyZ
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Arlington Plaza
- Santa Barbara Cigar and Tobacco
- Bella Rosa Galleries
- La Arcada Historic Courtyard
- Paseo Nuevo
- State Street
- Chocolate Maya
1) Arlington Plaza
Found at the quiet end of downtown Santa Barbara, the sun-drenched Arlington Plaza is located just across the street from the iconic Arlington Theatre on State Street in the historic cultural arts district. With its signature local red tile roofs, patio dining that beckons, and a truly unique retail experience, this place offers something for everyone.
Among Arlington Plaza's numerous amenities there is a curated collection of top-quality dining, retail and service establishments, such as Blossom Salon, Carlitos Cafe y Cantina, DIANI Shoes, DIANI Living, The Travel Store, and more. In particular, Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro serves up the area's finest croissants and is open for breakfast and lunch. For those in bad need of a shopping therapy there is a set of luxury stores, including DIANI Boutique and Treat, a high-end beauty supply retailer. And if you are in the mood for some fresh Mexican food, you can always grab a seat at Carlitos Cafe Y Cantina and treat yourself to their rock shrimp soft tacos. Alternatively, sip some margarita or pisco sour on Carlitos' shaded patio and listen to lovely live music.
Among Arlington Plaza's numerous amenities there is a curated collection of top-quality dining, retail and service establishments, such as Blossom Salon, Carlitos Cafe y Cantina, DIANI Shoes, DIANI Living, The Travel Store, and more. In particular, Renaud's Patisserie & Bistro serves up the area's finest croissants and is open for breakfast and lunch. For those in bad need of a shopping therapy there is a set of luxury stores, including DIANI Boutique and Treat, a high-end beauty supply retailer. And if you are in the mood for some fresh Mexican food, you can always grab a seat at Carlitos Cafe Y Cantina and treat yourself to their rock shrimp soft tacos. Alternatively, sip some margarita or pisco sour on Carlitos' shaded patio and listen to lovely live music.
2) Santa Barbara Cigar and Tobacco
Santa Barbara Cigars and Tobacco opened in 1996 and provides the city with refined cigars and original accessories. The selection of humidors, lighters and cigar cutters will satisfy even a very pretentious consumer. This is a shop for all your smoking needs. Inside the store you can relax and enjoy aromas of the shop and flat screen TVs. This shop carries all the top brands available today, like Canacho Liberty, Tatuaje, La goria Cubana Artesanos de Miami, Rood 101 and many others.
3) Bella Rosa Galleries
Bella Rosa is a shop that should be visited as a gallery; even if you don't intend to buy anything, just enter and enjoy the warm atmosphere, check out the luxurious items and enjoy the exclusive paintings of local artists. In Bella Rosa you'll find exciting Estate Jewellery, Coloured Diamonds, Rare Antique and Modern decorative Art. The products sold there represent an impressive collection of cultural diversity from around the globe. At Bella Rosa you have a great chance to select the best present in the world for yourself and your friends and relatives.
4) La Arcada Historic Courtyard
La Arcada Historic Courtyard is considered a hidden jewel that goes back to 1926. One of the architectural highlights is a clock tower modeled after a famous clock in Chicago that dates to 1880. This plaza is a perfect spot for selfies.
There are lifelike statues greeting visitors, designed by J. Seward Johnson and George Lundeen, that offer an interactive feel, as well as selfies and other photo ops. Another highlight includes the pair of bronze dolphins, with a playful look. A turtle fountain is possibly one of the most famous sculptures on display.
Food experiences here are unforgettable. Andersen's Bakery and Restaurant features Danish pastries and other cuisines. Petit Valentien offers a fusion of French and Ethiopian cuisine. Additional food and drink options include California cuisine, wines, French chocolate, and Italian cuisine.
The stores include the historic barbershop, which has displays of all the equipment used throughout the years. There are also three art galleries with works by local artists, as well as a variety of retailers.
There are lifelike statues greeting visitors, designed by J. Seward Johnson and George Lundeen, that offer an interactive feel, as well as selfies and other photo ops. Another highlight includes the pair of bronze dolphins, with a playful look. A turtle fountain is possibly one of the most famous sculptures on display.
Food experiences here are unforgettable. Andersen's Bakery and Restaurant features Danish pastries and other cuisines. Petit Valentien offers a fusion of French and Ethiopian cuisine. Additional food and drink options include California cuisine, wines, French chocolate, and Italian cuisine.
The stores include the historic barbershop, which has displays of all the equipment used throughout the years. There are also three art galleries with works by local artists, as well as a variety of retailers.
5) Paseo Nuevo (must see)
Paseo Nuevo is a shopping center that boasts Spanish-style architecture for an exciting shopping experience. Beautiful courtyard areas are a perfect place to gather with shopping buddies and enjoy the sunshine.
Regular events, such as outdoor markets and activities for children, as well as a movie theater, provide fun for everyone. Regardless of whether you're seeking fun in addition to your shopping or are looking for activities for a family day out, Paseo Nuevo won't disappoint you.
Local stores are well-represented here, including Angie's Boutique, Maker's Market, Te Amo, and Zitzilan Imports. The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara also has a store here. Shopping at these merchants helps to support the local community.
Popular stores represented at this shopping center include Claire's, Gap Kids, Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle Outfitters, Game Stop, and Victoria's Secret.
Paseo Nuevo also offers several restaurant options. Some of the restaurants include 805 Boba, California Pasta, California Pizza Kitchen, Eureka Burger, Panda Express, Pickles & Swiss, and Sushytime.
If you're looking for a quick snack or drink, try some French pastries from Le Macaron. You might also consider an acai bowl from Oak Berry or fresh-squeezed juice from Pressed Juicery. See's Candies, Sweet Creams, and Tendi Gelato are also available for a quick break.
Regardless of why you decide to visit this shopping center, you'll come away pleased with what they have to offer. The atmosphere is on that encourages you to get out and enjoy everything.
Paseo Nuevo Mall is part of The Paseo de la Guerra complex of historic buildings. Since 1977 it is listed (as El Paseo and Casa de la Guerra) in National Register of Historic Places.
Regular events, such as outdoor markets and activities for children, as well as a movie theater, provide fun for everyone. Regardless of whether you're seeking fun in addition to your shopping or are looking for activities for a family day out, Paseo Nuevo won't disappoint you.
Local stores are well-represented here, including Angie's Boutique, Maker's Market, Te Amo, and Zitzilan Imports. The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara also has a store here. Shopping at these merchants helps to support the local community.
Popular stores represented at this shopping center include Claire's, Gap Kids, Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle Outfitters, Game Stop, and Victoria's Secret.
Paseo Nuevo also offers several restaurant options. Some of the restaurants include 805 Boba, California Pasta, California Pizza Kitchen, Eureka Burger, Panda Express, Pickles & Swiss, and Sushytime.
If you're looking for a quick snack or drink, try some French pastries from Le Macaron. You might also consider an acai bowl from Oak Berry or fresh-squeezed juice from Pressed Juicery. See's Candies, Sweet Creams, and Tendi Gelato are also available for a quick break.
Regardless of why you decide to visit this shopping center, you'll come away pleased with what they have to offer. The atmosphere is on that encourages you to get out and enjoy everything.
Paseo Nuevo Mall is part of The Paseo de la Guerra complex of historic buildings. Since 1977 it is listed (as El Paseo and Casa de la Guerra) in National Register of Historic Places.
6) State Street
State Street has a reputation for being one of the most pedestrian-friendly plazas in Santa Barbara. Because this area is easy for visitors to go walking in, the street attracts a lot of visitors daily.
Many of the most popular stores are locally-owned boutiques or gift stores, such as 33 Jewels at El Paseo, Beads of the Earth, and Letter Perfect Santa Barbara. National brands that are well-represented include the Apple Store, CVS, Foot Locker, H & M, the Levi's Store, Old Navy, and Sunglass Hut.
If you want to grab quick snacks or drinks, 7-Eleven, Chocolats Du Calibressan, and Mini-Mart are great places to stop. Consider stopping by SB liquor & Crafts during your trip to buy liquor or crafts brews.
The street also plays host to regular family-friendly events throughout the year. Some of these events include crafts and other types of fun for all ages.
Many of the most popular stores are locally-owned boutiques or gift stores, such as 33 Jewels at El Paseo, Beads of the Earth, and Letter Perfect Santa Barbara. National brands that are well-represented include the Apple Store, CVS, Foot Locker, H & M, the Levi's Store, Old Navy, and Sunglass Hut.
If you want to grab quick snacks or drinks, 7-Eleven, Chocolats Du Calibressan, and Mini-Mart are great places to stop. Consider stopping by SB liquor & Crafts during your trip to buy liquor or crafts brews.
The street also plays host to regular family-friendly events throughout the year. Some of these events include crafts and other types of fun for all ages.
7) Chocolate Maya
Chocolate Maya is a one-of-a-kind candy shop that you would want to live in, as they sell pure, fresh, luscious chocolates of all possible shapes, tastes and color blends, as well as candies, from classical truffles and creamy bonbons to spicy candies. Also you can find spicy and traditional chocolate drinks to soothe your soul. There is a large selection of organic, natural chocolate products for those who are close to nature. Special products for gifts, parties, weddings, corporate specials and holidays can be found as well.
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