Santa Barbara Life
Attractions

"A Danish Dream" in Solvang

Looking around, one quickly notices the windmills and other structures with greenish copper roofs and handsomely carved eaves and doorways. You will notice the striking red and white Dannebrog flag with the national colors of Denmark. Be sure to see the Little Mermaid, the half scale copy of Denmark's national symbol. It greets visitors at the Solvang intersection of Mission and Alisal Street just as it's "big sister" does in Copenhagen's Harbor. In Solvang, visitors are drawn into Scandinavian culture as they stroll the flower-lined streets or step into restaurants, shops and hotels. For tours or event times and other information, contact the Solvang Conference and Visitors Bureau at (805) 688-6144.

Santa Barbara Zoo

For many years people of all ages have enjoyed this unique attraction! Located in a lush garden setting, the exhibits are open and reflect the unique local aspects of each animal's native environment. Yearly membership packages are available. 500 animals - 30 acres - One Great Experience!

South Coast Railroad Museum

The Historic Goleta Depot is dedicated to the history and adventure of railroading with a special emphasis on the rural railroad station in America. Goleta Depot is a Victorian-styled Southern Pacific station, built in 1901. This historic landmark and architectural treasure is now located at the picturesque Lake Los Carneros County Park in Goleta, California. For more information and tour times, contact the South Coast Railroad Museum at (805) 964-3540.

Condor Express & Whale Watching

Santa Barbara is famous for its wonderful year-round whale watching opportunities. For over 30 years Condor Express has been a part of the Santa Barbara Harbor and Waterfront. These dedicated professionals have a love and appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants here in our Santa Barbara Channel.

Lompoc Valley Flower Festival

To the north and less than an hour's drive from downtown Santa Barbara lies the beautiful Lompoc Valley and the City of Lompoc. This town, rich in history and culture, prides itself on many colorful community events throughout the year. Foremost among these is the Lompoc Flower Festival which blooms into life each year in June. Parades, dancing, arts and crafts make this one festival not to be missed! For more information, contact the Lompoc Valley Festival Association at (805) 735-8511.

Waterfront Arts & Crafts Show

Every Sunday, visitors and locals stroll along Santa Barbara's beautiful palm-lined waterfront between the Stearns Wharf Dolphin Fountain and Fess Parkers Doubletree Resort attending this unique art show and sale. The show includes hundreds of booths & displays offering the finest arts and crafts of local artists. Featured crafts include pottery, paintings, toys, sculpture and much more. These works are presented for sale as you walk along Santa Barbara's one-of-a-kind beachfront boulevard. Sunday's 10-4pm.

Queen of the Missions

Mission Santa Barbara was the 10th of the California missions to be founded by the Spanish Franciscans. It was established on the Feast of St. Barbara, December 4, 1786. The original buildings were of Adobe and unpretentious. There were three adobe churches, each larger than the previous, that came before the present church. The third was destroyed by an earthquake in 1812. The present church was finished and dedicated in 1820. For more information and tour times, contact the Santa Barbara Mission Museum at 805-682-4149.

Historic Stow House

Stow House is surrounded by Lake Los Carneros County Park and holds a special place in the hearts of visitors and residents alike. Built in 1872, it is one of the oldest landmarks in the area. Once the headquarters of La Patera Ranch (a prosperous lemon ranch) this house, its grounds and gardens preserve the feeling of Goleta in its agricultural heyday. Enjoy a tour of historic Stow House and its gardens or a delightful walk around Lake Los Carneros. You might even consider a picnic! Experience this rich history just waiting for you to explore. Stow House is located at 304 North Los Carneros Road. Call for information and tour times (805) 681-7216.