Top Santa Barbara Walking Tours

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.

Tours of Santa Barbara offers the most comprehensive tour of, Santa Barbara in the World offering one and two day tours of, Santa Barbara . In this journey you'll see the region's finest places while discovering a portfolio of local and hidden attractions taking you to hot spots combined with unique landscapes and near breath taking panoramic views from all around in this tour . AGE RESTRICTED FROM 1 to 65 YEARS because of ext. walking, stairways and you could be climbing up a hillside .

Santa Barbara is filled with charm, history, and beauty. Explore the city with a local guide to learn its fascinating facts, intriguing legends, and elements that make the city so special. Stories lurk everywhere here—the streets, the buildings, the monuments. This walking tour is designed with newcomers in mind who want to uncover the elements they may not uncover on their own and see the most of the city that they can on their visit.

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.

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.

US Ghost Adventures is the leading provider of haunted ghost tours in America — we even own some of the most haunted properties in America, like the Lizzie Borden House! Every tour is hosted by an experienced, knowledgeable local guide. You’ll hear firsthand accounts from people who have witnessed the unexplained — sometimes even a guest’s eerie encounter or the guide’s own!   US Ghost Adventures offers an authentic experience that strives to make sense of the unexplainable. Our ghost tours are based on real-world portrayals of hauntings and well-documented history.

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.

Taco lovers and foodies can tuck into the best tacos, margaritas, and more that Santa Barbara has to offer on this guided food tour. Combine a walking tour of Santa Barbara's Downtown with stops at 5 of the city's most delicious taco restaurants so you can truly eat like a local. Private group experiences and custom tours are available.

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

Beneath Solvang’s charming Danish facades lies a history filled with mystery. Discover why this is the #1 ghost tour in Solvang, a one-mile outdoor walking experience operating nightly, year-round. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you'll uncover the city's haunted past through documented history, eerie legends, and chilling stories that have become part of Solvang’s unique heritage. Walk to iconic landmarks including Old Mission Santa Ines, the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, and the historic Christiansens’ Restaurant, where tales of unexplained encounters, tragic events, and lingering spirits continue to captivate visitors. Perfect for private groups, bachelorette parties, birthdays, corporate outings, and special events, this unforgettable ghost tour is proudly USMC Disabled Combat-Veteran-owned and women- and minority-led, delivering an evening of authentic history, immersive storytelling, and unforgettable mystery in the heart of Solvang.

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

Perfect for team building activities in Santa Barbara, food lovers and more..this tour is a top-rated group experience combining incredible food, local culture, and unforgettable team bonding. Experience one of the most premium food tours in Santa Barbara with a guided walk through the vibrant Funk Zone. This elevated culinary experience features curated tastings and chef-driven dishes that highlight the best of the local food scene. Enjoy California Wines, Craft Beers and even Sake! Explore top Funk Zone spots while your guide shares stories, history, and insider insights that bring the neighborhood to life. The experience concludes near the waterfront with a memorable final tasting in a scenic setting. Ideal for guests seeking a high-end, curated experience blending food, culture, and local charm. Book now to enjoy one of the top food tour experiences in Santa Barbara.

Spend an unforgettable half a day enjoying beautiful Santa Barbara with your friends or family. Live like a local for a day, on a lively, engaging tour of the town. Fill up on delicious food from several local eateries and sample the region's best wine or beer with tastings in between strolls that take you past the town's many theaters and plazas.

Enjoy a personalized private wine tour in Santa Barbara County's Santa Ynez Valley. Customize your itinerary with your guide to visit wineries and tasting rooms of your choice, including stops at Solvang, a local olive oil farm, an ostrich farm, and wineries such as Melville, Roblar, and The Brander Vineyard. Note that wine tastings are not included in this tour.

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.

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.

Santa Barbara is a true food lovers paradise. Its culinary scene thrives on fresh coastal ingredients, local vineyards, and a commitment to farm-to-table quality. It is a destination where natural beauty and rich cultural history come together, creating an unforgettable experience for any visitor. Known as the “American Riviera,” the city offers stunning Mediterranean-style landscapes—red-tile roofs, palm-lined streets, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Santa Barbara invites exploration through its historic sites, including the iconic Old Mission, the Spanish Colonial architecture of El Presidio, and the lively waterfront that reflects centuries of coastal heritage. Whether you're strolling State Street, wandering through the Funk Zone’s art-filled district, or eating your way through the city, Santa Barbara offers a delicious and distinctly local taste of California’s Central Coast at every turn.

Eat your way through Solvang’s most delicious, authentic spots on this small-group food tour designed for couples, families and solo travelers alike. Led by a local in-the-know, you’ll skip the cheesy tourist traps and dive straight into the town’s real flavor, from award-winning sandwiches and artisan Japanese to authentic Danish pastries and small-batch gelato. Along the way, you’ll have an option to sip local wines from the Santa Ynez Valley, meet chefs and owners who keep the town’s food scene thriving, and hear quirky history, insider tips, and a few secrets you won’t find in any guidebook (we’re called Secret Solvang for a reason). Whether it’s your first visit or your annual trip, this is the tastiest and most fun way to experience Solvang like a local: relaxed vibes, genuine, and unforgettable.

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.

Start your Santa Barbara afternoon the right way with AFK Food Tours. In about 2 hours, you’ll hit four of the area’s most crave-worthy dessert spots on an easy walk near State Street—sunny, stylish, and built for maximum flavor with minimal effort. You’ll enjoy samples + full scoops at every stop, so you’re not just tasting… you’re actually getting fed. Skip the guesswork. This route is intentionally curated for contrast: creamy classics, bright fruit-forward options, gelato-smooth textures, and a specialty stop that feels uniquely Santa Barbara. Each stop earns its place—no filler. Between bites, you’ll stroll palm-lined streets and Spanish-style scenery with plenty of photo moments. Your guide keeps it smooth with quick local insight and smart recommendations, so you finish full, relaxed, and already knowing where to head next for drinks, dinner, or sunset. Group size is intentionally limited to keep it social and never crowded.

Get ready to eat like a local on this comedian-led hidden gems food tour — a flavorful downtown adventure packed with laughs, unexpected finds, and some of the city’s best under-the-radar bites. This isn’t your average food tour. It’s a curated experience for people who want to skip the tourist traps and discover the spots locals obsess over. Guests will kick things off with tacos from one of the best taco spots in town before heading to a tucked-away fried chicken restaurant known for crispy, crave-worthy comfort food that most visitors would walk right past. From there, the tour continues with delicious pizza at a beloved local favorite, all while your comedian guide shares stories, jokes, city history, and fun facts that turn the evening into equal parts comedy show and culinary adventure. The tour wraps up with a crowd favorite: authentic Turkish ice cream, complete with the playful tricks and theatrical serving style that make it just as entertaining as it is delicious.

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.

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.