Santa Barbara's Artistic Heart

Explore 5,000 years of human creativity at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, home to a renowned collection of international antiquities and modern masterpieces in the heart of downtown.

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Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA), located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, is a cultural gem that showcases over 5,000 years of human creativity. Housed in a historic building that once served as the city's post office, the museum boasts a renowned collection of over 25,000 works, spanning international antiquities to modern masterpieces. With strengths in 19th- and 20th-century American and European art, Asian art, and photography, SBMA offers a diverse and enriching experience for art enthusiasts of all backgrounds. The museum's dynamic special exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives make it a vital and accessible cultural hub, drawing approximately 150,000 visitors annually. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a curious traveler, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art provides a captivating journey through the world of art.

A brief summary to Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

1130 State St, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Downtown, California, 93101, US
+1805-963-4364
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Local tips

Visit on the first Thursday evening of the month for free admission and extended hours, offering a chance to explore the museum's collection and special exhibitions without charge.
Check the SBMA website for information on current exhibitions, events, and educational programs to make the most of your visit.
Take advantage of the free Family Guide available at the Visitor Services Desk, offering games, activities, and information to help families explore the galleries together.

Getting There

Walking

From State Street, walk towards Anapamu Street. The museum is located on the corner of State and Anapamu Streets. Look for the stately building that was once the Santa Barbara Post Office. The main entrance is on State Street.
Public Transport

Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) buses serve the downtown area. Check the MTD website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Alight at a stop on State Street near Anapamu Street. From there, it's a short walk to the museum. A single ride fare is $1.75.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Request a ride to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art at 1130 State Street. Be aware of potential traffic congestion on State Street, especially during peak hours. The estimated fare from the Santa Barbara Amtrak station is $8-$12.
Driving

From Highway 101, exit onto Carrillo Street and head towards downtown. Turn onto State Street. The museum will be on your right. Parking is available in nearby public parking lots and structures. Parking fees typically range from $2.50 per hour, with the first 75 minutes free at the Paseo Nuevo Shopping Center garage.

Discover more about Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) stands as a beacon of artistic expression in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Founded in 1941, the museum occupies a stately building at 1130 State Street, originally constructed as the Santa Barbara Post Office in the early 20th century. Chicago architect David Adler reimagined the building's facade and interior to create a welcoming space for art enthusiasts. The Ludington Court, with its dramatic sense of arrival, remains a defining feature of the museum's architectural charm. Over the decades, SBMA has grown to encompass multiple wings and expanded facilities, including the Stanley R. McCormick Gallery, the Sterling and Preston Morton Galleries, the Alice Keck Park Wing, and the Jean and Austin H. Peck, Jr. Wing. These additions have allowed the museum to showcase a broader range of its extensive collection and accommodate diverse exhibitions. In 2020, a major renovation of the original post office building was completed, enhancing the museum's infrastructure and creating new galleries dedicated to photography, new media, and contemporary art. SBMA's permanent collection comprises over 25,000 works of art, representing a vast spectrum of cultures, time periods, and artistic styles. Visitors can explore international antiquities from China, India, Greece, Rome, Egypt, and the Near East, as well as 19th-, 20th-, and 21st-century art from Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The museum is particularly renowned for its holdings of 19th- and 20th-century American and European art, contemporary American painting, photography, and the arts of Asia, especially China. Highlights include masterpieces of French Impressionism, with a notable collection of Monet paintings, and classical antiquities rivaled in the West only by the J. Paul Getty Museum. The museum's commitment to education and community engagement is evident in its diverse range of programs and initiatives. The Ridley-Tree Education Center at McCormick House serves as a hub for art education activities, offering classes, workshops, and family programs. SBMA also collaborates with local artists, schools, and cultural institutions to foster a vibrant arts community in Santa Barbara. Public outreach programs aim to make art accessible to all, ensuring that the museum remains a vital and inclusive part of the community. SBMA's dynamic special exhibitions showcase both contemporary and classic art, providing fresh perspectives and unique experiences for visitors. The museum brings world-renowned exhibitions to Santa Barbara and originates exhibitions that travel to museums across the Americas and Europe. Past notable exhibitions have included retrospectives on influential artists and thematic explorations that resonate with a wide audience. Visiting the Santa Barbara Museum of Art is an immersive experience that engages the senses and stimulates the mind. The museum's galleries are thoughtfully curated, creating a seamless flow between different periods and styles. Visitors can explore the collection at their own pace, discovering hidden gems and familiar masterpieces. Informative labels and audio guides provide context and insights into the artworks on display. Beyond the art itself, SBMA offers a range of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The Museum Store features a curated selection of art books, unique gifts, and souvenirs. While the museum does not have an on-site café, there are plenty of excellent dining options within walking distance, perfect for a meal before or after your visit. The museum also provides lockers for storing backpacks and oversized bags, ensuring a comfortable and secure visit. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is more than just a repository of art; it is a dynamic cultural institution that enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike. Its commitment to education, community engagement, and artistic excellence makes it a must-see destination for anyone seeking inspiration and enlightenment. Whether you're drawn to ancient artifacts, modern masterpieces, or thought-provoking contemporary works, SBMA offers a captivating journey through the world of art.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Janssens-Orella-Birk Building

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Explore the Janssens-Orella-Birk Building in Santa Barbara, a historic landmark showcasing enchanting Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a captivating glimpse into the city's past.

Santa Barbara Old Japantown Plaque

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Explore Santa Barbara's rich cultural tapestry at the Old Japantown Plaque, honoring the legacy of the Japanese community that once thrived in this historic city.

El Paseo "Street in Spain"

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Discover the charm and history of El Paseo Street in Santa Barbara, Spain, where vibrant culture meets stunning architecture for an unforgettable experience.

Trinity Episcopal Church

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Discover a Santa Barbara landmark: Trinity Episcopal Church, a historic sanctuary with stunning Gothic architecture, vibrant community programs, and a welcoming spirit for all.

Paseo de la Guerra

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Explore the historic Paseo de la Guerra in Santa Barbara, a landmark that embodies the rich cultural heritage of California's coastal history.

The Orena Adobe

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Discover the Orena Adobe in Santa Barbara: a historic landmark showcasing Spanish Colonial heritage and the blending of cultures in California's captivating past.

De La Guerra Plaza

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Experience the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara at De la Guerra Plaza, a historic public square surrounded by iconic architecture, where community and culture come alive.

Casa Covarrubias

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Step back in time at Casa Covarrubias, a beautifully preserved 1817 adobe offering a glimpse into Santa Barbara's rich history and the lives of its prominent early families.

Rafael González House

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Explore the historical charm of Rafael González House, a stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture in Santa Barbara's Laguna neighborhood.

Andalucia Building

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Discover the Andalucia Building in Santa Barbara: A unique Moorish-style landmark on State Street, blending history, architecture, and downtown charm for an unforgettable experience.

Hastings Adobe

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Discover the Hastings Adobe in Santa Barbara, a historic landmark built in 1854, blending New England charm with California history, offering a glimpse into the past.

Area 5.1 Winery

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Fess Parker Funk Zone

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Historic Riviera Streetcar Stop Shelter

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Step back in time at Santa Barbara's Historic Riviera Streetcar Stop Shelter, a beautifully preserved landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's early transit history.

Burton Mound State Historical Landmark

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Unmissable attractions to see

Santa Barbara Public Library

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Discover the Santa Barbara Public Library, where books, art, and community come together in a beautiful setting in downtown Santa Barbara.

The Granada Theatre

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Experience the rich cultural heritage and vibrant performances at The Granada Theatre, a historic landmark in Santa Barbara, California.

Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Santa Barbara

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Experience the vibrant culture and history of Santa Barbara through interactive scavenger hunt walking tours that engage the whole family.

Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Santa Barbara

Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara

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Explore the historical Superior Court of California in Santa Barbara, a stunning architectural gem showcasing the region's rich heritage.

Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens

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Hill Carrillo Adobe

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Santa Barbara Fox

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Arlington Theatre

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Our Lady of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church

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Our Lady of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church

Lobero Theatre

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El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park

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Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library

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Casa de la Guerra

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Alameda Park

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Jamie Slone Wines

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Discover fusion cuisine and live music at The Blue Owl in Santa Barbara - where every meal is an unforgettable experience.

Experience the charm of Santa Barbara shopping at Evangelina Boutique, where unique styles and local artistry come together.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Good Lion

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Odessa Lounge

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Sportsman Lounge

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Mel's Lounge

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The Pickle Room

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Elsies Tavern

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Press Room

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Dargan's

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The Bobcat Room

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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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Whiskey Richards

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Santa Barbara's Artistic Heart

A brief summary to Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Santa Barbara Museum Of Art

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Janssens-Orella-Birk Building

Santa Barbara Old Japantown Plaque

El Paseo "Street in Spain"

Trinity Episcopal Church

Paseo de la Guerra

The Orena Adobe

De La Guerra Plaza

Casa Covarrubias

Rafael González House

Andalucia Building

Hastings Adobe

Area 5.1 Winery

Fess Parker Funk Zone

Historic Riviera Streetcar Stop Shelter

Burton Mound State Historical Landmark

Unmissable attractions to see

Santa Barbara Public Library

The Granada Theatre

Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Santa Barbara

Superior Court Of California County Of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens

Hill Carrillo Adobe

Santa Barbara Fox

Arlington Theatre

Our Lady of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church

Lobero Theatre

El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park

Susan Quinlan Doll & Teddy Bear Museum & Library

Casa de la Guerra

Alameda Park

Jamie Slone Wines

Essential places to dine

Sama Sama Kitchen

Mizza

State & Fig

Benchmark Eatery

Petit Valentien

milk & honey

bouchon Santa Barbara

Olio e Limone Ristorante

Chase Restaurant and Lounge

Ca' Dario Santa Barbara

Jane

Opal

Roy

Finch & Fork

The Blue Owl

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Santa Barbara Museum of Art Store

Lewis & Clark

Paradise Found

Anthropologie

The Yes Store

Adornment

Folly

Barefoot Boutique

Sirena

Sands Boutique

Marshalls

Salt Boutique

Creations Boutique

Lovebird Boutique & Jewelry Bar

Evangelina Boutique

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Good Lion

Odessa Lounge