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Alameda Park: Santa Barbara's verdant heart

Discover Santa Barbara's historic Alameda Park: a lush urban oasis with rare trees, Kids World playground, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

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Alameda Park, one of Santa Barbara's oldest parks, offers a charming escape with its lush greenery, historical monuments, and vibrant community atmosphere. Home to Kids World playground, rare trees, and a bandstand, it's a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.

A brief summary to Alameda Park

  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure parking and a picnic table, especially on weekends.
  • Explore the park's diverse tree collection using the self-guided tree tour.
  • Visit during the Summer Solstice Parade or Earth Day for a lively experience.
  • Bring children's swimwear so they can fully enjoy the water features at Kids World.
  • Check the City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation website for event schedules and reservable picnic areas.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Alameda Park is located downtown and easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. From State Street, walk east towards the mountains. Turn left on Santa Barbara Street, and you'll find the park between Sola and Micheltorena Streets. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve Alameda Park. Check the MTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Several bus routes have stops near the park. A single ride fare is $1.75. Transfers are free. A day pass costs $6.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, take the Garden Street exit and head towards the mountains. Alameda Park will be on your left between Sola and Micheltorena streets. Street parking is usually available nearby. Be aware of street sweeping days to avoid tickets. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Alameda Park

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Discover more about Alameda Park

Alameda Park, a cherished green space in the heart of Santa Barbara, has been a beloved destination for generations, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Established in the 1800s, this nine-acre park, also known as Alameda Plaza, is a centerpiece for city-wide celebrations and community events. The park is technically divided into Alameda West and Alameda East by an active street, but it functions as a unified space. Alameda Park is home to over 70 species of trees, many of them rare, making it a horticultural treasure. Visitors can explore these trees with the Alameda Plazas Self-Guided Tree Tour. Some notable species include the soapbark tree, the white ironwood, and the bunya-bunya tree. Several towering palm, oak, and eucalyptus trees provide shade and beauty. Kids World, an 8,000-square-foot playground in the park's northwest corner, is a major attraction. This expansive wooden play area, built by community volunteers in 1993, features swings, slides, castle towers, and reservable party sites. A special enclosed section caters to toddlers, while stadium seating allows parents to relax. Alameda Park also features a bandstand built in 1888, picnic sites, and a gazebo. The Victorian-style bandstand hosts community events, including outdoor concerts. Alameda Park is conveniently located near other attractions. Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens is across the street, and Our Lady of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church is nearby. The park hosts events such as the Summer Solstice Parade and Earth Day.

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