Paseo de la Guerra: A Step Back in Time

Discover Santa Barbara's Spanish heritage at Paseo de la Guerra, a historic complex with charming courtyards, artisan shops, and Casa de la Guerra, a window into 19th-century California life.

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Paseo de la Guerra, a historic landmark in downtown Santa Barbara, transports visitors to the heart of California's Spanish past. This complex, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, centers around Casa de la Guerra, the meticulously restored adobe home of José de la Guerra, a prominent 19th-century military officer and rancher. Wander through the charming courtyards and arcades, admiring the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, artisan shops, and restaurants that blend seamlessly with the historic setting. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, especially during Fiesta, and discover hidden corners that whisper tales of early California life. It's a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern Santa Barbara charm.

A brief summary to Paseo de la Guerra

10 El Paseo, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Downtown, California, 93101, US

Local tips

Explore beyond the main courtyard; hidden hallways and smaller courtyards offer unique shops and architectural details.
Visit during Fiesta (usually in August) to experience the plaza transformed into a vibrant Mexican marketplace.
Check the Casa de la Guerra's schedule for special events, tours, and educational programs.
Take your time to appreciate the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, a defining style of Santa Barbara.
Enjoy a meal at El Paseo Restaurant for a romantic ambiance in a historic setting.

Getting There

Walking

Paseo de la Guerra is located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara and is easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From State Street, walk east on De la Guerra Street. The main entrance to Paseo de la Guerra is located at 10 El Paseo, just off De la Guerra Street. Look for the archway adorned with colorful flags. From the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, walk south on Anacapa Street, then turn left onto De la Guerra Street. The paseo will be on your right. Note that the area around Paseo de la Guerra is pedestrian-friendly, with numerous shops and restaurants to explore along the way.
Public Transport

Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve the downtown area. Several routes stop near Paseo de la Guerra. Check the MTD website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. From the MTD Transit Center at 1020 Chapala Street, walk one block east on E Canon Perdido Street, then turn right onto Anacapa Street and walk south one block to De la Guerra Street. The Paseo de la Guerra will be on your right. A single ride on the MTD costs $1. Alternatively, the Santa Barbara Visitor Trolley provides service to downtown and the Funk Zone for $1 per ride, cash only. The trolley operates Friday through Monday.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Santa Barbara. Simply request a ride to Paseo de la Guerra at 10 El Paseo, Santa Barbara. Expect to pay around $8-$15 for a short ride within the downtown area, depending on demand and distance.
Driving

If driving, be aware that parking in downtown Santa Barbara can be challenging, especially during peak season. There is no on-site parking at Paseo de la Guerra. Street parking is available, but time limits are enforced. Several public parking lots are located nearby, including City Lot #9 (enter off Anacapa Street between Carrillo St and Canon Perdido St, or from Canon Perdido between State St and Anacapa St) and City Lot #8 (enter off Anacapa Street between Figueroa St and Carrillo St). The first 75 minutes are free, and each additional hour costs $1.50. Valet parking is also available on Anacapa Street between Canon Perdido Street and De la Guerra Street (El Paseo Parking Services). Be sure to observe posted signs for street cleaning days/hours.

Discover more about Paseo de la Guerra

Paseo de la Guerra, a captivating historical complex in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, offers a unique glimpse into California's rich Spanish and Mexican heritage. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places as El Paseo and Casa de la Guerra, this landmark encompasses a collection of buildings constructed over nearly two centuries, creating a harmonious blend of architectural styles and historical significance. The centerpiece of Paseo de la Guerra is Casa de la Guerra, the meticulously restored adobe home of José de la Guerra y Noriega, a prominent figure in 19th-century Santa Barbara. De la Guerra was not only the fifth commandant of the Presidio of Santa Barbara but also a wealthy landowner, rancher, and influential member of the community. Constructed between 1819 and 1827, Casa de la Guerra served as the de la Guerra family's residence and the social, political, and cultural hub of Santa Barbara during the Mexican period (1821-1848). Stepping into Casa de la Guerra is like stepping back in time. The rooms are furnished to reflect the period between 1828 and 1858, offering visitors an immersive experience of family life in 19th-century Santa Barbara. Explore the office, sala (living room), bedroom, and store, each meticulously recreated to evoke the atmosphere of the era. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to share stories about the de la Guerra family, the Chumash servants who worked there, and the evolution of the house over three generations. Beyond Casa de la Guerra, Paseo de la Guerra encompasses a collection of buildings that reflect the changing architectural styles and uses of the complex over time. The Orena Store Building (c. 1860) and the Holiday Hardware Building (c. 1870) stand as testaments to Santa Barbara's commercial development. In 1922, Bernhard Hoffman initiated the construction of the El Paseo complex, incorporating Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, which became a defining style for Santa Barbara. The "Street in Spain" section, a charming replica of an Andalusian village street, was added in 1922, followed by Restaurante Del Paseo (1922-23), the Main Courtyard Section (1923-24), the Anacapa Courtyard Section (1928-29), and the State Street Arcade Section (1965). The architectural harmony of Paseo de la Guerra is a testament to the vision of architects like James Osborne Craig, who designed and restored many of the buildings, and Lutah Maria Riggs, who contributed to the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The complex served as a model for rebuilding downtown Santa Barbara after the devastating 1925 earthquake, solidifying its place as a landmark of architectural significance. Today, Paseo de la Guerra continues to be a vibrant center of activity, blending history, culture, and commerce. Wander through the charming courtyards and arcades, browse the artisan shops and boutiques, and savor a meal at one of the restaurants. The complex comes alive during special events, particularly during Fiesta, Santa Barbara's annual celebration of its Spanish heritage. During Fiesta, De la Guerra Plaza transforms into a bustling mercado, a Mexican marketplace filled with crafts, food, music, and dance. El Paseo Restaurant, located within the complex, offers a romantic setting reminiscent of an outdoor courtyard. With its chunky archways, colorful tilework, and lush greenery, the restaurant provides a delightful ambiance for a memorable dining experience. Explore every corner and hallway of Paseo de la Guerra, and you'll discover hidden spots and architectural details that reveal the complex's rich history. Admire the colorful flags waving from terra-cotta rooftops, the rounded archways that invite exploration, and the artfully glazed Spanish tiles that add pops of color and charm. Casa de la Guerra also hosts community and private events, including educational programs, Día de los Muertos celebrations, and Una Noche de Las Posadas. The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation offers guided tours and educational resources to help visitors delve deeper into the history and significance of the site. Paseo de la Guerra is more than just a collection of buildings; it's a living testament to Santa Barbara's past, present, and future. It's a place where history comes alive, where culture thrives, and where visitors can experience the unique charm and beauty of Santa Barbara.

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

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Mel's Lounge

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Dusk Bar

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Paseo de la Guerra: A Step Back in Time

A brief summary to Paseo de la Guerra

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Paseo de la Guerra

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Paseo de la Guerra

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Paseo de la Guerra

El Paseo "Street in Spain"

De La Guerra Plaza

The Orena Adobe

Santa Barbara Old Japantown Plaque

Santa Barbara Masonic Temple, Lodge 192 F&AM

Casa Covarrubias

Janssens-Orella-Birk Building

Residential building

Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk

Rafael González House

Santa Barbara County Landmarks

Faith Mission

Andalucia Building

Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours

Unmissable attractions to see

Jamie Slone Wines

Lobero Theatre

Santa Barbara Fox

Hill Carrillo Adobe

Santa Barbara Historical Museum

Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library

El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park

Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Santa Barbara

Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara

Vera Cruz - House with murals

Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

Santa Barbara Public Library

Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens

The Granada Theatre

Arlington Theatre

Essential places to dine

California Pasta

The Blue Owl

Intermezzo by Wine Cask

Eureka!

Cajun Kitchen

Roy

Finch & Fork

Chase Restaurant and Lounge

Barbareño

Joe's Cafe

The Palace Grill

Jill's Place Restaurant

Petit Valentien

Mizza

State & Fig

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lovebird Boutique & Jewelry Bar

Evangelina Boutique

Creations Boutique

Salt Boutique

Paseo Nuevo

Zitzilin Imports

URBAN FLEA MARKET

Marshalls

The Grapeseed Company @ Seaside Makers Collective

Seaside Makers - Santa Barbara

Sands Boutique

Moon River

Antique Alley

Barefoot Boutique

Only In Santa Barbara

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Press Room

Dargan's