Santa Barbara Downtown Cocktails and History Walking Tour

Santa Barbara’s downtown area offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. The Cocktails and History Walking Tour invites visitors to uncover the city’s past while indulging in expertly crafted libations. Guided by a knowledgeable local, the tour weaves through off-the-beaten-path establishments, revealing the global influences and local flavors that have shaped Santa Barbara’s vibrant culinary scene. From sampling artisanal bites to learning about landmark buildings, this immersive experience promises to leave participants with a newfound appreciation for the city’s rich heritage and thriving present. With personalized recommendations for the best food and drink options, the tour sets the stage for a memorable exploration of Santa Barbara’s dynamic downtown.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Walking Tours In Santa Barbara.

Key Points

• Guided walking tour through downtown Santa Barbara, exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant culinary culture.
• Highlights include sampling craft cocktails, learning about the area’s past from a knowledgeable local guide, and discovering off-the-beaten-path establishments.
• Opportunity to indulge in artisanal bites reflecting the region’s diverse culinary traditions and learn about the city’s thriving food and beverage scene.
• Tour covers approximately 1 mile of walking and lasts 2-3 hours, with a small group size of up to 12 participants.
• Engaging narratives from a professional and fun local guide, who provides insightful commentary on historical significance, architectural features, and personalized recommendations.

Tour Overview

This guided tour takes participants on a journey through downtown Santa Barbara, revealing the city’s rich history and vibrant culinary culture.

Over the course of 2-3 hours, a small group of just 12 people will explore the city’s off-the-beaten-path establishments, sampling cocktails and learning about the area’s past.

Along the way, the knowledgeable local guide will share fascinating stories and historical insights, and be available to offer recommendations for excellent food and drink options.

The tour covers approximately a mile of walking, so guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

With a private, intimate atmosphere, this experience promises an immersive look at Santa Barbara’s downtown charm.

Highlights of the Tour

Participants on the Santa Barbara Downtown Cocktails and History Walking Tour will uncover the city’s rich culinary heritage as they explore a selection of off-the-beaten-path establishments, sampling craft cocktails along the way.

Led by a fun and professional local guide, the small group of up to 12 people will learn about the downtown area’s captivating history and vibrant food culture.

Guests will have ample opportunity to ask questions, allowing them to delve deeper into the city’s past and present.

Throughout the tour, the guide can provide excellent recommendations for additional dining and drinking options, ensuring participants make the most of their Santa Barbara experience.

Downtown Santa Barbara’s History

Downtown Santa Barbara’s history dates back to the late 18th century when the area was first settled by the Spanish. The city’s rich cultural heritage can be traced to its origins as a mission outpost, which played a pivotal role in the region’s development.

Over the years, Santa Barbara has evolved, blending its Spanish colonial architecture with modern influences. On the tour, guests will discover the city’s historical landmarks, such as the iconic Mission Santa Barbara and the vibrant State Street, which showcase the unique fusion of old and new.

Along the way, you will gain insights into Santa Barbara’s culinary culture and its transformation into a thriving coastal destination.

Culinary Culture Exploration

Along With uncovering Santa Barbara’s rich history, the tour also explores the city’s vibrant culinary culture, showcasing its blend of global influences and local flavors.

Participants will have the opportunity to visit a variety of off-the-beaten-path food and drink establishments, allowing them to discover the unique culinary offerings that define Santa Barbara’s identity.

Some highlights include:

1. Sampling locally-sourced cocktails that incorporate seasonal, fresh ingredients.
2. Indulging in artisanal bites that reflect the region’s diverse culinary traditions.
3. Learning about the city’s thriving food and beverage scene from the knowledgeable local guide, who can provide personalized recommendations.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Establishments

Throughout the tour, participants venture beyond the main thoroughfares, uncovering a tapestry of locally-owned establishments that reflect Santa Barbara’s culinary diversity. The guide leads the group to hidden gems, introducing them to unique cocktail lounges, cozy wine bars, and artisanal eateries that are off the beaten path. These establishments offer a intimate glimpse into the city’s food and drink culture, showcasing the creativity and passion of local business owners.

Establishment	Specialty
The Tavern	Craft Cocktails
Bouchon	French Bistro Fare
The Lark	Farm-to-Table Dining
Victoria Court	Small-Batch Spirits
Loquita	Spanish Tapas

Professional and Fun Local Guide

With their fun and professional approach, the local guide leads participants through the tour, sharing engaging narratives about Santa Barbara’s rich history and vibrant culinary scene.

The guide’s extensive knowledge and passion for the city are evident as they expertly navigate the group through the downtown area, highlighting hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path establishments.

Participants can expect:

1. Insightful commentary on the historical significance and architectural features of the buildings along the tour route.

2. Recommendations for the best food and drink options, tailored to the group’s preferences.

3. A personalized experience where the guide encourages questions and interaction, fostering a fun and memorable adventure.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a fully guided historical exploration with a fun and professional local guide, who can recommend excellent food and drink options along the way.

However, the cost of any cocktails, food, or other refreshments is excluded from the tour price.

Participants will learn about downtown Santa Barbara’s history and culinary culture, stopping at food and drink establishments off the beaten path.

There’s plenty of time to ask questions throughout the tour.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, guests are encouraged to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes as the walking portion may cover approximately a mile.

This private tour is only available to groups of up to 12 people aged 21 and over.

Meeting and End Points

The tour starts at Casa de la Guerra, located at 15 E De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, and concludes at 833 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.

This centralized meeting point allows guests to easily access the tour, while the end location on State Street provides convenient access to explore the city further.

The tour covers approximately a mile of walking, ensuring participants get a well-rounded experience of downtown Santa Barbara‘s history and culinary culture.

The starting point, Casa de la Guerra, is a historical adobe building that provides a fitting backdrop for the tour.

The end location on State Street is in the heart of downtown, making it easy for guests to continue their exploration.

The walking distance between the two points allows for a comfortable and informative tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Children on the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children, as it is restricted to those 21 years and older. Participants must be of legal drinking age to attend this walking tour focused on exploring the local cocktail and culinary culture.

How Long Does the Walking Portion Last?

The walking portion of the tour typically covers approximately a mile. The exact duration may vary depending on the pace and stops along the way, but guests should plan for an extended walking component as part of the overall experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes. This allows for the walking portion of the tour, which may cover approximately a mile.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes stops at various food and drink establishments, but outside food and beverages are not permitted. The cost of any items consumed is not included in the tour price.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private tour option. According to the information provided, the tour is a "private tour/activity, only your group will participate" and is operated by Totally Cali Tours of Santa Barbara LLC.

Recap

The Santa Barbara Downtown Cocktails and History Walking Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the city’s captivating past and vibrant culinary landscape.

Guided by a knowledgeable local, guests will embark on a journey of discovery, sampling craft cocktails, indulging in artisanal bites, and uncovering the unique stories behind the city’s iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path establishments, creating an unforgettable and enriching experience.