El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park
Explore California's Spanish past at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, where history comes to life through original and reconstructed adobe buildings and vibrant cultural exhibits.
Step back in time at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, a captivating landmark in downtown Santa Barbara. This 5.5-acre park preserves the site of the last Spanish fortress founded in Alta California in 1782. Explore original and reconstructed adobe buildings, including El Cuartel, the second-oldest building in California, and the Cañedo Adobe, home to the Visitor Center. Wander through the chapel, comandante's quarters, and padre's quarters, immersing yourself in the Spanish colonial era. Discover exhibits detailing the Presidio's history and the diverse cultures that have shaped Santa Barbara, including the Chumash, Spanish, Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese communities. With its blend of history, architecture, and cultural significance, El Presidio offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this historical treasure and uncover the stories of Santa Barbara's past.
A brief summary to El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park
- 123 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Downtown, California, 93101, US
- +1805-965-0093
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your visit at the Visitor Center in the Cañedo Adobe for an orientation and tour booklet.
- Check the park's event calendar for living history demonstrations, cultural festivals, and other special events.
- Combine your visit with a trip to Casa de la Guerra, included in the admission price, for a deeper dive into Santa Barbara's history.
- Take advantage of the hourly parking available in the adjacent lot at 115 E. Canon Perdido Street.
- Explore the diverse dining options within the park, including Lebanese cuisine at Zaytoon and sandwiches at Three Pickles.
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of State Street and Canon Perdido Street, walk east on Canon Perdido Street for two blocks. El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park will be on your left, occupying the block between Santa Barbara Street and Anacapa Street. The Visitor Center is located in the Cañedo Adobe at 123 E Canon Perdido St.
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Public Transport
Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve the downtown area. Several lines stop near El Presidio. From the Transit Center, take Line 11 and get off at State & Pueblo. Walk one block east on Canon Perdido St. to reach the Presidio. A single ride fare is $1-2.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available in Santa Barbara. A ride from the Santa Barbara Amtrak station to El Presidio is approximately 5 minutes and typically costs between $9 and $11, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
From Highway 101, take the Carrillo Street exit and head east. Turn left onto Santa Barbara Street, then turn left onto Canon Perdido Street. The Presidio will be on your right. Hourly parking is available in the adjacent parking lot at 115 E. Canon Perdido Street. Parking is managed by Santa Barbara Valet, Inc. and payment can be made through the paybyphone.com app. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $3 per hour.
Discover more about El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Santa Barbara Old Japantown Plaque
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The Orena Adobe
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Santa Barbara Masonic Temple, Lodge 192 F&AM
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Casa Covarrubias
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El Paseo "Street in Spain"
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Paseo de la Guerra
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De La Guerra Plaza
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Rafael González House
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Janssens-Orella-Birk Building
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Santa Barbara County Landmarks
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Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk
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Residential building
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Faith Mission
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Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours
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Andalucia Building
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lobero Theatre
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Santa Barbara Historical Museum
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Jamie Slone Wines
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Casa de la Guerra
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Hill Carrillo Adobe
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Santa Barbara Fox
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Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara
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Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens
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Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Santa Barbara
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Santa Barbara Public Library
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Santa Barbara Museum Of Art
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Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library
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The Granada Theatre
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Vera Cruz - House with murals
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Arlington Theatre
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Essential places to dine
Intermezzo by Wine Cask
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Chase Restaurant and Lounge
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The Blue Owl
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Roy
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California Pasta
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Jill's Place Restaurant
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Petit Valentien
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State & Fig
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Finch & Fork
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Mizza
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Eureka!
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Cajun Kitchen
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Sama Sama Kitchen
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Benchmark Eatery
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The Palace Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sands Boutique
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Marshalls
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Lovebird Boutique & Jewelry Bar
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Salt Boutique
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Barefoot Boutique
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Creations Boutique
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Evangelina Boutique
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The Yes Store
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URBAN FLEA MARKET
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Paseo Nuevo
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The Grapeseed Company @ Seaside Makers Collective
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Seaside Makers - Santa Barbara
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Zitzilin Imports
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Moon River
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Antique Alley
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pickle Room
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Press Room
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Dargan's
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The Bobcat Room
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Odessa Lounge
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Elsies Tavern
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The Good Lion
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Old Kings Road
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Sportsman Lounge
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Dusk Bar
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O'Malleys Bar
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Mel's Lounge
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Unbearable Skee Lodge
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Santa Barbara Wine Therapy
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Whiskey Richards
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