Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Santa Barbara Travel Guide

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Visit Santa Barbara's Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a historic landmark and the largest of its kind in the U.S., near the Amtrak station.

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Moreton Bay Fig Tree

The Moreton Bay Fig Tree in Santa Barbara, located near the Amtrak station, is believed to be the largest Ficus macrophylla in the United States. Planted in 1877, this massive tree boasts a sprawling canopy and impressive root system, making it a must-see attraction for nature enthusiasts and history buffs.

A brief summary to Moreton Bay Fig Tree

Chapala St & Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, Lower State, CA, 93101, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Moreton Bay Fig Tree.

Visit on a weekday around midday to avoid crowds.
Combine your visit with a walk to or from the Funk Zone.
Check out the historic luxury railcar next to the tree.

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Explore Moreton Bay Fig Tree on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Moreton Bay Fig Tree, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From State Street, head towards the ocean. Turn left onto Montecito Street. The Moreton Bay Fig Tree is located at the corner of Montecito and Chapala Streets, adjacent to the Amtrak station. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes from the main part of State Street. Look for the large, sprawling tree canopy.
Public Transport

Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve the Amtrak station, which is right next to the Moreton Bay Fig Tree. Check the MTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is typically around $1.75.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from anywhere in downtown Santa Barbara to the Moreton Bay Fig Tree will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and surge pricing. The drop-off point is best near the Amtrak station on Chapala Street.

Discover more about Moreton Bay Fig Tree

Santa Barbara's Moreton Bay Fig Tree is a magnificent specimen of Ficus macrophylla, standing proudly near the city's Amtrak station. It is believed to be the largest of its kind in the United States. The tree's story began in 1876 when an Australian seaman gifted a seedling to a local girl, who planted it on State Street. A year later, the girl's friend, Adeline Crabb, transplanted it to its current location at the corner of Montecito and Chapala Streets.This proved to be an ideal spot, and the tree flourished. Today, its immense canopy spreads over 175 feet, providing a vast umbrella of shade. The trunk has a circumference of over 41 feet. The network of sprawling buttress roots radiates outwards, anchoring the tree to the earth.The tree was officially designated as a historic landmark in 1970. The property was deeded to the City of Santa Barbara in 1976. The tree has since been placed on the California Register of Big Trees. A protective barrier now surrounds the base of the tree. Visitors can admire it from outside the barrier.