Things to do in Santa Barbara
The places in Santa Barbara that people know best, ranked by readers who live there or have visited. Vote for the ones you would send a friend to, and add the places a top-ten list always misses.
Plan around the weather
The best months to be outside are January to December. Month-by-month weather.
Top picks in Santa Barbara
Started in order of how widely each place is written about, then ranked by your votes. Links go to each place's official website. Tick "I've been" to track your count in your city passport.
Rainy or scorching day? Head indoors: Arlington Theatre.
Parks and sights near Santa Barbara
The best-known parks, museums, zoos and landmarks within about 35 miles. Tap Been or Want to add them to your city passport.
- Santa Barbara City College in Santa Barbara
- Ventura College 28 miles
- Westmont College 3 miles
Places from Wikidata (CC0), linked to each one's official site or Wikipedia article. Check hours and fees before you go.
Readers' picks
No reader picks yet. Add one in the box at the top of the page. Free things, little-known spots and seasonal events are especially welcome.
Add a pick with a description and website
Local favorites
Where people who live in Santa Barbara actually eat, drink, shop and spend Saturdays. Nominated by residents. Businesses cannot pay to appear or move up.
No favorites yet. Name the taco stand, coffee shop or trail you would defend to anyone.
Add a favorite with a description
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Santa Barbara?
Well-known places with their own websites include Arlington Theatre and East Beach. Readers vote the list up and down and add their own picks.
What can you do in Santa Barbara on a rainy or very hot day?
Indoor picks include Arlington Theatre.
When is the best time to visit Santa Barbara?
For comfortable weather, go in January to December, when highs stay between 62°F and 86°F with modest rain (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).
More about Santa Barbara: city profile, weather by month, ask a local.
Starting list from Wikidata (CC0): well-known places in or next to Santa Barbara that list an official website, ordered by how many Wikipedia language editions cover them, checked by hand to remove closed places and non-attractions. Opening hours and prices change, so check each official site before you go. Reader picks and favorites are read by a person before they appear.