El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park
Explore California's colonial past at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, where reconstructed adobe buildings and heritage gardens tell the story of a multicultural heritage.
Step back in time at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, the site of the last Spanish fortress built in California. Founded in 1782, the Presidio served as the military, governmental, and social center of the region. Today, visitors can explore reconstructed and preserved adobe buildings, including El Cuartel, the second-oldest building in California. Wander through heritage gardens, view archaeological sites, and learn about the diverse cultures that have shaped Santa Barbara, from the Chumash Indians to Spanish, Mexican, Chinese, and Japanese communities. The park offers a fascinating glimpse into California's colonial past and its vibrant multicultural heritage. Don't miss the Visitor Center in the Cañedo Adobe for exhibits and tour information. It's a captivating experience for history buffs and families alike.
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 to pick up a self-guided tour booklet.
- Check the park's event calendar for historical reenactments, cultural festivals, and other special events.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Casa de la Guerra for a deeper dive into Santa Barbara's Mexican period.
- Explore the heritage gardens to see native and historic plant species.
- Take time to appreciate the architecture of the reconstructed chapel, comandancia, and padres' quarters.
Getting There
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Walking
El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park is located in downtown Santa Barbara and is easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions. From State Street, walk east on Canon Perdido Street. The park is located at 123 E Canon Perdido Street, on the right-hand side, spanning four city blocks. Look for the whitewashed adobe buildings. Casa de la Guerra is located just two blocks away.
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Public Transport
Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve the downtown area. Several bus lines stop near El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. Check the MTD website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the Transit Center, take Line 11 and get off at State & Pueblo. The cost for a single ride is $1-$2.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Santa Barbara. A ride from the Santa Barbara Amtrak station to El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park will cost approximately $9-$11, depending on traffic.
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Driving
If driving, take Highway 101 to the Carrillo Street exit. Head east on Carrillo Street, then turn right onto Santa Barbara Street. Turn left onto Canon Perdido Street. The park will be on your right. Hourly parking is available in the adjacent parking lot at 115 E. Canon Perdido Street. Parking is operated by Santa Barbara Valet, Inc. and paid for through the paybyphone.com App.
Discover more about El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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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
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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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Arlington Theatre
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Essential places to dine
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Chase Restaurant and Lounge
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Roy
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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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Benchmark Eatery
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The Palace Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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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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The Yes Store
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Paseo Nuevo
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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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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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