Welcome to Downtown Santa Barbara
From hidden courtyards to iconic red-tiled rooftops, find your rhythm in a downtown that balances historic charm with coastal energy.
Upcoming Events
Happy Hour Specials
As the workday winds down, the district transforms into the city’s ultimate social hub. Whether you are looking for exclusive drink deals, discounted small bites, or the perfect outdoor patio to soak up the evening, discover the best spots to unwind and score a great value in the heart of Santa Barbara.
Getting Around Downtown
Discover how easy it is to navigate the heart of the city. Our district is built for exploration, prioritizing pedestrian-friendly walkways and seamless connectivity between our historic streets and the waterfront. Whether you’re hopping on a high-frequency shuttle, grabbing a bike for a coastal ride, or enjoying a narrated trolley tour, getting around is simple, efficient, and scenic. Choose your preferred way to explore below.
Navigate the district like a local with the 2026 Downtown Santa Barbara Map & Guide. This colorful, pocket-sized souvenir is your essential companion for discovering the best places to dine, shop, and explore within our historic blocks. You can pick up your free copy at the Visitor Center, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, the Old Mission, and most local hotels. Whether you are looking for a hidden paseo or the quickest route to the waterfront, our guide ensures you won't miss a thing during your stay.
Reaching our district is straightforward, whether you’re arriving by land, air, or rail. We are located along a beautiful stretch of the Central Coast, just a 90-minute drive (95 miles) north of Los Angeles and about 5 hours (325 miles) south of San Francisco.
For those flying in, the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) provides a convenient, small-airport experience just 10 minutes from the downtown core. Travelers coming from further afield can utilize the Santa Barbara Airbus, which offers frequent, reliable shuttle service between our district and LAX. Additionally, the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner arrives at the depot right in our district, allowing you to skip the highway and start your visit the moment you step off the train. However you get here, you'll find the heart of the city waiting just a few steps away.