Franceschi Park: A Horticultural Haven with Panoramic Views
Discover panoramic views and exotic flora at Franceschi Park, a historic Santa Barbara haven once home to famed botanist Francesco Franceschi.
Perched high in Santa Barbara's Riviera neighborhood, Franceschi Park offers stunning city and ocean views. Named for Italian horticulturist Francesco Franceschi, the park showcases exotic plants and the remains of Franceschi's historic estate, providing a tranquil escape with a touch of history.
A brief summary to Franceschi Park
- 1510 Franceschi Rd, Santa Barbara, Riviera, California, 93103, US
- +1805-564-5418
- Monday 6 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9 pm
- Friday 6 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, as the parking lot has limited spaces, especially on weekends.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy the stunning views from the park's picnic areas.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails, as some areas have steep inclines.
- Visit during sunset for a romantic experience with breathtaking views.
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of Mission Ridge Road and Franceschi Road, walk west on Franceschi Road for approximately 400 feet. The park gates, marked 1510, will be on your left. Note that this is a moderately uphill walk.
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Public Transport
Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve the general area. Check the MTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules to determine the closest stop to Franceschi Park. From the bus stop, you may need to walk uphill along Franceschi Road to reach the park entrance. A single ride fare is $1.75.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Request a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to 1510 Franceschi Road, Santa Barbara. From downtown Santa Barbara, a typical ride-share trip to Franceschi Park will cost approximately $15-25, depending on demand and traffic. Be aware that due to the park's location in the Riviera neighborhood, response times may vary.
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Driving
From Highway 101, take the Mission Street exit towards the mountains. Follow Mission Street until it ends, then turn left onto Laguna Street. At the stop sign, turn right onto Los Olivos Street. At the fork, bear right onto Alameda Padre Serra until you reach Alvarado Place. Turn left onto Alvarado Place, then right onto Mission Ridge Road. Drive until you see the park sign on your left, then turn left onto Franceschi Road. The park gates are about 400 feet on your left at 1510 Franceschi Road. Parking is free on-site, but spaces are limited. Be aware that the parking lot is locked each night.
Discover more about Franceschi Park
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