Explore the District: Shuttles, Tours & Trolley
From historic landmarks to hidden culinary gems, the best way to experience the heart of the city is through a curated tour. Whether you’re looking for a guided food walk, a nostalgic trolley ride, or a convenient lift on the new State Street Loop electric shuttle, there is an experience tailored for every explorer. Use these local services to discover our famous paseos, vibrant culture, and the Mediterranean charm that defines downtown.
Experience effortless mobility with the State Street Loop, a free, all-electric shuttle service designed to connect you to the best of downtown. Launched as a pilot program in partnership with the City of Santa Barbara and Friends of State Street, these eco-friendly shuttles run from Stearns Wharf to Sola Street. With no apps or schedules required, you can simply hop on and off at clearly marked stops between 12:00 PM and 7:00 PM, Thursday through Sunday. It’s the perfect way to linger longer at your favorite shops and cafes while enjoying a breezy, accessible ride through the district.
Step into the history of the district with the Old Town Walking Tour, hosted by local expert John Ummel. This immersive experience guides you through the historic heart of the city, highlighting the unique architecture and stories behind our most famous landmarks and hidden paseos. Whether you are a curious local or a first-time visitor, John’s deep knowledge of the area provides a fascinating look at the cultural heritage and Mediterranean charm that define downtown Santa Barbara.
For a whimsical departure from traditional styles, explore the imaginative world of local architect Jeff Shelton. Often described as Santa Barbara’s answer to Gaudí, Shelton’s designs are a playful reinterpretation of Spanish Colonial Revival, featuring whitewashed stucco paired with dramatic archways, asymmetrical windows, and hand-blown glass fixtures. This self-guided walking tour leads you to 10 distinct landmarks—including the iconic Ablitt Tower and El Andaluz—all located within a 10-block radius of the downtown core. It is a must-see for design lovers looking to discover the colorful tilework and custom ironwork that give these "living sculptures" their one-of-a-kind character.
For a comprehensive "lay of the land," climb aboard the iconic open-air Santa Barbara Trolley. This 90-minute narrated tour is a favorite for visitors and locals alike, offering a wealth of historic insights as it winds through the district and beyond. Starting from the Visitor Center, the trolley stops at Santa Barbara’s most famous landmarks, including the historic Old Mission, the scenic Harbor, and the Santa Barbara Zoo. It’s an entertaining and educational way to see the city's top sights while enjoying the breeze and world-class views of the American Riviera.
Experience the architectural soul of the city at your own pace with the self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour. This iconic route leads you through the heart of the district, showcasing the stunning Spanish Colonial Revival design—from sun-drenched adobes and hidden courtyards to the grand scale of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. As you navigate these historic blocks, you’ll discover the preserved landmarks and secret paseos that serve as the cultural backbone of downtown, offering a timeless window into the craftsmanship and heritage that shaped our community.
Savor the flavors of the district with a guided culinary adventure that highlights the best of our local food scene. From the Original Downtown Food Tour, which pairs delicious local bites with regional wine tastings, to the high-energy Santa Barbara Taco Tour, these experiences offer a fun and flavorful way to navigate the city’s hidden gems. For those short on time or planning a private group event, their expert guides provide a perfect mix of history, culture, and "short-but-sweet" stories that celebrate the makers and flavors of downtown.
From the urban tasting rooms of the district to the rolling vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley, Captain Jack’s Tours offers a versatile range of ways to explore. Their popular 4-hour Downtown Wine or Beer Tasting Tours take the guesswork out of an afternoon on the town, while their historical and architectural walking tours provide deep local context for our district’s unique landmarks. For those looking to venture further, they specialize in customized backcountry excursions, including "Sideways" movie-inspired wine tours and scenic foothill hikes, making them a go-to for groups seeking a fully curated Santa Barbara adventure.