The Orena Adobe: A Window to Santa Barbara's Past

Discover the Orena Adobe in Santa Barbara: a historic landmark showcasing California's rich past and Spanish Colonial architecture, nestled in the heart of the Presidio neighborhood.

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The Orena Adobe, nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara's historic downtown, offers a captivating glimpse into the city's rich past. Constructed in 1849 by Don José de la Guerra as a storehouse, it was later acquired by Don Gaspar Oreña, who expanded it into a family home in 1858. The adobe stands as a testament to the blending of cultures and the architectural styles that shaped early Santa Barbara. Though not always open for public tours, its well-preserved exterior, marked by a distinctive historical marker, provides a tangible connection to the city's vibrant heritage. Located near De la Guerra Plaza and El Paseo, the Orena Adobe is a must-see for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados seeking to immerse themselves in Santa Barbara's unique charm. The building's story whispers tales of rancheros, gold dust, and the evolution of a California town, making it a compelling stop on any historical walking tour.

A brief summary to The Orena Adobe

27-29 E De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Downtown, California, 93101, US

Local tips

Visit during the annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta in August to experience Santa Barbara's heritage with colorful parades and cultural events.
Combine your visit with a stroll through El Paseo, a historic shopping complex designed by the same architect who renovated the Orena Adobe.
Check out the historical marker on the building's exterior for a quick overview of the adobe's history and significance.

Getting There

Walking

From De la Guerra Plaza, walk east along E De la Guerra Street. The Orena Adobe is located a short distance away on the left-hand side, between Anacapa and Santa Barbara Streets. Look for the historical marker on the building's facade.
Public Transport

From the Santa Barbara Transit Center (1020 Chapala Street), take MTD bus routes 1, 2, or 3 towards downtown. Disembark at the State St. and E De la Guerra St. stop. Walk east on E De la Guerra St. for two blocks. The Orena Adobe will be on your left. A single ride fare is around $1.75.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available throughout Santa Barbara. A short ride from the Amtrak station or downtown hotels to the Orena Adobe will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.
Driving

Limited street parking is available near the Orena Adobe. Metered parking costs around $2.50 per hour. Alternatively, paid parking lots are located within a few blocks, such as City Lot #9 (Anacapa between Carrillo and Canon Perdido) or Lot 10 (Anacapa & De la Guerra St). Rates typically start at $1.50 per hour after the first 75 minutes.

Discover more about The Orena Adobe

The Orena Adobe, located at 27-29 E De La Guerra Street in Santa Barbara, is a significant historical landmark that offers a tangible connection to the city's past. This well-preserved adobe structure, dating back to the mid-19th century, stands as a testament to the blending of cultures and architectural styles that shaped early Santa Barbara. While the building may not always be open for interior tours, its exterior and historical marker provide a compelling glimpse into the lives of the families who once called it home and the events that unfolded within its walls. The story of the Orena Adobe begins in 1849 when it was constructed by Don José de la Guerra, a prominent figure in Santa Barbara's history and the fifth comandante of the Presidio. De la Guerra initially used the building as a storehouse for supplies arriving by ship, reflecting Santa Barbara's importance as a port city during that era. The adobe's thick walls and simple design were typical of the period, providing a cool and secure space for storing goods. In the mid-1850s, the property was acquired by Don Gaspar Oreña, a Spanish immigrant who became a successful rancher and businessman in Santa Barbara. Oreña married one of de la Guerra's daughters, further cementing the connection between the two families. In 1858, Oreña expanded the original structure, adding a 1½-story addition that transformed the adobe into a family home. This addition reflected Oreña's growing wealth and status in the community, as well as the evolving architectural tastes of the time. The Orena Adobe served as the Oreña family's fall and winter residence, providing a comfortable and elegant space for them to enjoy the social life of Santa Barbara. The family also owned several ranch properties in the surrounding area, including Los Alamos, Cuyama, and La Espada, where they spent much of the year tending to their cattle and agricultural interests. Gaspar Oreña was a prominent figure in the Californio cattle industry, which experienced a golden age during the Gold Rush as demand for beef soared. In 1889, Oreña and his wife moved to San Francisco, where he became a successful banker. Their home on Geary Street became a gathering place for the city's elite. Eventually, the couple returned to Santa Barbara and moved into a home on West Victoria Street, where Gaspar Oreña passed away in 1903. The adobes that bear his name were restored in 1921 by James Osborne Craig, the primary architect of the El Paseo office/retail complex. They have housed a variety of businesses over the years; both are designated City of Santa Barbara landmarks. In 1920, Doña Acacia Oreña Rickard, daughter of Don Gaspar Oreña, oversaw a renovation of the adobe that added a patio and expanded the building's rear. This renovation further enhanced the adobe's beauty and functionality, blending the original Spanish Colonial style with more modern elements. The architect for this project was James Osborne Craig, who also designed the nearby El Paseo complex, a testament to the enduring appeal of Spanish Colonial architecture in Santa Barbara. Today, the Orena Adobe stands as a reminder of Santa Barbara's rich history and the families who shaped its development. The building's thick adobe walls, red-tile roof, and wrought-iron details evoke a sense of timeless elegance and charm. The historical marker mounted on the front of the building provides visitors with a concise overview of the adobe's history and significance. Located in the heart of Santa Barbara's historic Presidio neighborhood, the Orena Adobe is surrounded by other notable landmarks, including Casa de la Guerra, De la Guerra Plaza, and El Paseo. This area is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. While the Orena Adobe may not always be open for public tours, visitors can still appreciate its beauty and historical significance from the outside. The building's architecture and landscaping are well-maintained, providing a visually appealing glimpse into the past. The historical marker offers valuable insights into the adobe's history and the families who lived there. For those interested in learning more about Santa Barbara's history, a visit to the Orena Adobe is a must. The adobe's story is intertwined with the city's development, from its early days as a Spanish presidio to its transformation into a thriving tourist destination. By exploring the Orena Adobe and its surrounding landmarks, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Santa Barbara's unique cultural heritage. The Orena Adobe is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Santa Barbara's past and a reminder of the enduring legacy of the families who shaped its destiny. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and charm, a visit to the Orena Adobe is sure to be a memorable experience.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Orena Adobe

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De La Guerra Plaza

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El Paseo "Street in Spain"

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Santa Barbara Old Japantown Plaque

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Paseo de la Guerra

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Casa Covarrubias

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Santa Barbara Masonic Temple, Lodge 192 F&AM

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Santa Barbara Masonic Temple, Lodge 192 F&AM

Janssens-Orella-Birk Building

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Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk

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Rafael González House

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Residential building

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Santa Barbara County Landmarks

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Faith Mission

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Andalucia Building

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Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours

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Unmissable attractions to see

Casa de la Guerra

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Lobero Theatre

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Santa Barbara Historical Museum

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El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park

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Hill Carrillo Adobe

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Santa Barbara Fox

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Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library

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Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Santa Barbara

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Vera Cruz - House with murals

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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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Santa Barbara Public Library

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Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

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The Granada Theatre

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Arlington Theatre

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Urban Outfitters

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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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Elsies Tavern

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Old Kings Road

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Dusk Bar

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O'Malleys Bar

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Unbearable Skee Lodge

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Santa Barbara Wine Therapy

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Mel's Lounge

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Whiskey Richards

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Odessa Lounge

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Shaker Mill

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The Good Lion

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The Orena Adobe: A Window to Santa Barbara's Past

A brief summary to The Orena Adobe

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of The Orena Adobe

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Orena Adobe

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Orena Adobe

De La Guerra Plaza

El Paseo "Street in Spain"

Santa Barbara Old Japantown Plaque

Paseo de la Guerra

Casa Covarrubias

Santa Barbara Masonic Temple, Lodge 192 F&AM

Janssens-Orella-Birk Building

Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk

Rafael González House

Residential building

Santa Barbara County Landmarks

Faith Mission

Andalucia Building

Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours

Unmissable attractions to see

Casa de la Guerra

Lobero Theatre

Santa Barbara Historical Museum

El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park

Hill Carrillo Adobe

Santa Barbara Fox

Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library

Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Santa Barbara

Vera Cruz - House with murals

Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens

Santa Barbara Public Library

Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

The Granada Theatre

Arlington Theatre

Essential places to dine

Intermezzo by Wine Cask

California Pasta

The Blue Owl

Eureka!

Jill's Place Restaurant

Roy

Chase Restaurant and Lounge

Cajun Kitchen

Finch & Fork

The Palace Grill

Joe's Cafe

Petit Valentien

Holdren's Steaks & Seafood

Pascucci

State & Fig

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lovebird Boutique & Jewelry Bar

Sands Boutique

Evangelina Boutique

Marshalls

URBAN FLEA MARKET

Creations Boutique

The Grapeseed Company @ Seaside Makers Collective

Seaside Makers - Santa Barbara

Salt Boutique

Paseo Nuevo

Moon River

Antique Alley

Zitzilin Imports

Only In Santa Barbara

Urban Outfitters

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Pickle Room

Press Room