Top Santa Barbara Historical Tours

Santa Barbara offers a wealth of history and architectural splendor—and this private walking tour is the perfect way to discover the city’s highlights and lesser-known attractions alike. Set off with your guide at a time that works best for you, and visit landmarks like El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, City Hall, and the Granada Theatre. Learn about everything from the city’s origins to adobe construction as you go.

A small group tour of the Clark Estate whose owners last stayed there in 1953. The home — virtually shut off to all but the property's caretakers until 2014 — is in immaculate condition with all its original furnishings and artwork.

Discover a side of Solvang that few other visitors get to experience—and tap into the region’s supernatural lore—on this evening ghost tour. Meet your guide in the center of town and set off with EMF meters, dowsing rods, and other ghost-hunting tools to aid you. You’ll see historic highlights of the town, and can attempt to spot local spirits, all while your guide shares Solvang’s spookiest ghost stories.

Learn all about Santa Barbara’s wealth of history—including its many ghostly encounters and macabre events—on this small-group, after-dark walking tour. Meet your guide right downtown, and set off: you’ll visit key local landmarks like the El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, City Hall, Santa Barbara Historical Museum, and more. You’ll even visit what is supposedly the most haunted building in California—and may just encounter disembodied specters as you go.

Our local guides know best. We'll take you on a tour to our 3 favorite taquerias and a nice e-bike ride to boot! Tour includes 1 taco at each place and 1 beer or soda at the last place. The low price won't break your budget and the history and sights will amaze you. There are meat options and non-meat options. My favorite is pastor which is a pineapple flavored pork. Please join us for the fun and filling lunch ride.

Visitors who want a quick, fun overview of Santa Barbara's highlights will love this 90-minute trolley tour of the American Riviera. Drive past landmarks like the courthouse, the zoo, the Mission, and the Museum of Natural History. Learn about the town's culture and history from live commentary and note places that you might want to return to independently later.

Cruise the beautiful Santa Barbara coastline and soak in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This scenic tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into Santa Barbara's rich maritime history and vibrant wildlife, guided by an expert who shares captivating stories about the area’s ecology and heritage. Spot diverse marine life and marvel at the Channel Islands as you glide through the waters, uncovering why Santa Barbara is known as the 'American Riviera.' This coastal cruise is perfect for anyone eager to explore the magic of the city from a unique perspective. - Scenic coastal cruise along Santa Barbara's picturesque shoreline - Expert guide sharing insights into local ecology and maritime history - Opportunities for vibrant wildlife sightings and stunning island views - Ideal for visitors looking to experience Santa Barbara from the sea **All Viator bookings are main-deck. ***Our boats do not accommodate wheelchairs, canes, or walkers.

Are you looking for a way to see downtown Santa Barbara without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour. • Find out if Santa Barbara really is California’s answer to the French Riviera on this walking tour through the idyllic seaside city • Hear from producer Mindy Flanagan, who co-founded Tour Freely with her husband, Jerry • Do it all in 75 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Get another perspective on the southern California coast during this leisurely kayak tour in Santa Barbara. Learn the basics of kayaking from your guide, and hear about Santa Barbara’s natural history and marine life during your tour. You won't have to worry about equipment rentals since kayaking gear is included.

Our Santa Barbara Kayak Tour can be a private tour or group tour experience. You choose your adventure! If you're looking for a more intimate Santa Barbara kayaking experience then our private kayak tour will be a perfect fit. If you're hoping to kayak Santa Barbara with other travelers and enjoy the sights with new friends then the group kayak tour is the way to go! Whichever kayaking tour you choose you'll be in the very capable hands of our friendly and experienced tour guides. Your local kayaking guide will show you the stunning boats in our harbor as well as introduce you to some cute and cuddly sea lions and seals! Prepare to take in views of Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Mountains, and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins! Your expert guide will share information about Santa Barbara's top attractions and customize the speed of the ride to suit your needs. Our goal is that kayaking Santa Barbara will be the highlight of your trip!

For a foodie-friendly outing combining local history with California wine culture, you can enjoy the best of both with this Santa Barbara small-group tour. Start your midday adventure with convenient meet-up in the downtown area. With your guide leading the way, you can sip wine at two boutique tasting rooms, sample artisanal chocolates, and learn about the region's famed wine industry and top winemakers.

Get ready to step into the living history of one of California’s most captivating cities! Santa Barbara is a place where every corner holds a story. On this tour, we’ll wander through the city’s iconic streets, filled with white adobe buildings, red-tile roofs, and elegant arches that define its Mediterranean charm. You’ll learn about the rise of the Spanish missions, the rebuilding efforts after the devastating nineteen twenty-five earthquake, and the visionaries who shaped the city’s architectural identity. The journey starts in Santa Barbara Public Market. The tour is all smartphone guided on our walking tour app. It's location aware, plays as you walk and hands free. Go at your own pace, stop and go as you please, the tour never expires, go anytime, 24/7/365.

Travelers who aren't afraid of spooky stories will love this ghost-themed walking tour of Santa Barbara. Learn about the town's history and culture through its otherworldly myths and legends. Over 90 minutes you'll explore some of Santa Barbara's most historic places while having fun. This is a small-group tour so you won't have to strain to hear your guide.

Cover more of Santa Barbara than you ever could on foot on an electric bike tour. Ride your easy-to-use beach cruiser to landmarks such as State Street and the Santa Barbara Mission as your guide shares stories you won't find in the guidebook. Have your camera ready as you glide along the renowned Pacific coastline. Group numbers are capped, ensuring personalized attention and a small-group experience.

Skip the crowds this is a private tour for your group only! Santa Barbara is a treasure trove of rich history and architectural magnificence. Embark on a private walking tour, diving deep into the city’s captivating tales and stunning landmarks. Marvel at the El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, a testament to California’s early days, and admire the intricate designs of the City Hall. Let the grandeur of the Granada Theatre sweep you away, all while delving into fascinating stories of the city’s foundation and the traditional art of adobe construction. Beyond these notable attractions, there’s even more to explore in Santa Barbara, with these being just a glimpse of its multifaceted charm. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Explore Santa Barbara's vibrant arts district on a unique walking tour led by a comedian. Starting at the stunning Granada Theatre, wander through picturesque streets adorned with white-washed adobe buildings and palm trees. Indulge in delicious snacks like Wafflecado toast and a local beer taster, capture memorable moments at iconic spots like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and El Presidio, and savor a glass of wine paired with classic coastal pizza. Conclude your tour with tacos, cocktails, and a token for games while your guide captures fun group photos at whimsical murals, and don't worry we never forget dessert! - Discover Santa Barbara’s arts district with a comedian as your guide - Savor local treats including Wafflecado toast and ice cream - Visit famous landmarks like the Courthouse and Lobero Theatre - Enjoy sweet treats, savory bites, tasty tacos, drinks, and fun photo ops along the way

Learn the stories, mystery, and intrigue of spirits living in the French Quarter, including vampires, ghosts, the supernatural, murders, suicides, and hauntings. Your guide will introduce you to the underground world of Voodoo, chilling horror stories, and murderous mysteries for a fully authentic take on Nola's dark side.

Avoid the stuffy minivans and tour buses that go from winery to winery; instead, enjoy the wind in your hair as you cycle around the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley on this charming cycling tour. Head out from Los Olivos and explore the parks, villages and rural landscapes of the Valley. Enjoy a pair of wine tastings and sample locally-grown, locally-produced food at local farms and vineyards.

Learn all about Santa Barbara’s spookiest ghost stories and supposedly haunted highlights—and enjoy top-rated local wine as part of the experience—on this two-in-one, small-group tour. Meet your guide right at an area winery, indulge in sips and samples, and listen to their tales of paranormal encounters. Then embark on a walking tour around town, from El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park to City Hall and Chinatown.

Explore the enchanting streets of Solvang on a self-guided walking tour that highlights the town's rich Danish heritage. As you stroll past iconic windmills and charming half-timbered shops, take in the delightful aromas from cozy bakeries that have been part of this community since 1911. The tour features notable landmarks such as Old Mission Santa Inés and the Elverhøj Museum, enhanced by engaging storytelling through location-based audio. Experience Solvang's unique blend of history, culture, and artistry at your own pace, making it an ideal adventure for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking a cultural escape. - Self-guided tour allows you to explore Solvang at your own pace - Discover key landmarks like Old Mission Santa Inés and the Little Mermaid Fountain - GPS-activated audio provides immersive storytelling

Discover the beauty of California’s famed Central Coast wine region on an all-inclusive Santa Ynez wine tour from Santa Barbara. Relax in a luxury passenger van as breathtaking landscapes lead you to the Santa Ynez Valley, where you’ll enjoy exclusive tastings at three partner wineries. With lunch, snacks, and insights from a knowledgeable local guide included, this is more than a tour—it’s a curated wine experience.

Enjoy a world class private tour with narration by Laure Spiers, a legendary tour guide specializing in the American West. You'll use the Pintours app to control the tour to play exactly on your schedule. If you want to skip, or need more time at a location, you have control. You'll visit Santa Barbara's County Courthouse, Old Mission, Funk Zone, and East Beach, with informative commentary at every stop along the way.

Stroll through downtown Santa Barbara with a guide and small group to get the most out of your visit. You'll benefit from insightful commentary as you visit some of the top attractions, as well as some eateries you might not find on your own. Purchase food or drinks at the three historical cocktail bars and listen to the explanation of why each is significant. Traveling with a small group means you'll get plenty of attention from your guide.