This coastal city has been a getaway for Los Angeles residents for over one hundred years. Before the name Hollywood became indelibly associated with the movie industry, it was a center of silent film production. Its rich human history began over ten thousand years ago with native settlements, and it has survived at least two serious earthquakes. Today Santa Barbara, CA is an exciting and popular destination for visitors.
When forced to rebuild after a devastating 1925 temblor, a distinctly Spanish flavor was chosen as a theme, which today is perfectly illustrated by the County Courthouse. Even though closely connected to the nearby Los Angeles megalopolis, that prevailing hodge-podge of architectural styles has not totally overwhelmed the community, which still projects an atmosphere and character that is easily recognized.
The city makes an excellent base to explore and rest prior to heading out for a visit to the Santa Ynez Valley and its famous wineries, or before heading up the coast to see Hearst Castle, still elegantly preserved in its unique splendor. The area has been labeled the American Riviera for its Mediterranean seasons, and is a terminal for voyages to the Channel Islands National Park, home to rare wildlife.
One of the better-known landmarks in town is Stearns Wharf, which juts into the sea where State Street ends. Originally erected in the 1870s, the wharf has survived several disasters, and today is home to shops, restaurants, the Natural History Sea Center, and other attractions. Visitors come for the fine dining, but also enjoy seeing the churning surf on one side framed by mountains on the other.
Lovers of nature will not want to miss seeing the Botanic Garden, a world-class display of both exotic and native vegetation. While tours are readily available, visitors can enjoy this oasis on their own, wandering the well-maintained pathways among specimens of plants unique in California. Portions of this garden are currently designated as a County Historical Landmark.
Fans of history will not want to miss seeing the Old Mission, first established by Franciscans in 1786. It was the tenth one in a series, and the beautiful interior was crafted by Native American artists. Although there has been widespread restoration work to repair earlier earthquake destruction, the well-reinforced facade provides an accurate representation of the building in its prime.
Other historic landmarks include the Casa de la Guerra, which was originally a community center for many purposes, and which today is part of the El Pasea complex, modeled after an original Spanish street. The original Presidio, or fortress, became less significant after the Americans arrived in 1846, but soldier quarters and some original rooms still exist, and are located in the downtown area.
A comfortable drive brings visitors to Chumash Painted Cave Historic Park, home of native American artwork, as well as the festive Danish community of Solvang. The city is home to many recognized restaurants, and has a variety of places to stay that accommodate nearly any budget. Whether enjoying a weekend getaway or an extended visit, there is always something to do and see.
When forced to rebuild after a devastating 1925 temblor, a distinctly Spanish flavor was chosen as a theme, which today is perfectly illustrated by the County Courthouse. Even though closely connected to the nearby Los Angeles megalopolis, that prevailing hodge-podge of architectural styles has not totally overwhelmed the community, which still projects an atmosphere and character that is easily recognized.
The city makes an excellent base to explore and rest prior to heading out for a visit to the Santa Ynez Valley and its famous wineries, or before heading up the coast to see Hearst Castle, still elegantly preserved in its unique splendor. The area has been labeled the American Riviera for its Mediterranean seasons, and is a terminal for voyages to the Channel Islands National Park, home to rare wildlife.
One of the better-known landmarks in town is Stearns Wharf, which juts into the sea where State Street ends. Originally erected in the 1870s, the wharf has survived several disasters, and today is home to shops, restaurants, the Natural History Sea Center, and other attractions. Visitors come for the fine dining, but also enjoy seeing the churning surf on one side framed by mountains on the other.
Lovers of nature will not want to miss seeing the Botanic Garden, a world-class display of both exotic and native vegetation. While tours are readily available, visitors can enjoy this oasis on their own, wandering the well-maintained pathways among specimens of plants unique in California. Portions of this garden are currently designated as a County Historical Landmark.
Fans of history will not want to miss seeing the Old Mission, first established by Franciscans in 1786. It was the tenth one in a series, and the beautiful interior was crafted by Native American artists. Although there has been widespread restoration work to repair earlier earthquake destruction, the well-reinforced facade provides an accurate representation of the building in its prime.
Other historic landmarks include the Casa de la Guerra, which was originally a community center for many purposes, and which today is part of the El Pasea complex, modeled after an original Spanish street. The original Presidio, or fortress, became less significant after the Americans arrived in 1846, but soldier quarters and some original rooms still exist, and are located in the downtown area.
A comfortable drive brings visitors to Chumash Painted Cave Historic Park, home of native American artwork, as well as the festive Danish community of Solvang. The city is home to many recognized restaurants, and has a variety of places to stay that accommodate nearly any budget. Whether enjoying a weekend getaway or an extended visit, there is always something to do and see.
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