Santa Barbara Veterans' Memorial Building: A Waterfront Landmark

A historic waterfront landmark honoring veterans and serving as a vibrant community hub in Santa Barbara, hosting events and offering stunning ocean views.

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Veterans' Memorial Building

The Santa Barbara Veterans' Memorial Building, a historic landmark on Cabrillo Boulevard, stands as a tribute to the county's veterans. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean near Stearns Wharf, this building serves as a vibrant community hub, hosting diverse events from weddings to conferences. Its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, coupled with interior murals depicting peace and war, offers a poignant reflection on service and sacrifice. The building also features a Medal Room honoring the nation's heroes and provides stunning ocean views from its upstairs sunroom. With its rich history and ongoing community engagement, the Veterans' Memorial Building is a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with Santa Barbara's past and present.

A brief summary to Veterans' Memorial Building

112 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, West Beach, California, 93101, US
+1805-568-0020
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Local tips

Check the event calendar in advance; the building hosts diverse events, from weddings to community meetings, offering a glimpse into local life.
Explore the Medal Room to pay respects to local veterans and learn about their service; it's a poignant reminder of their dedication.
Take a stroll along Cabrillo Boulevard after your visit; the waterfront offers stunning views and easy access to Stearns Wharf and the harbor.
Look for the murals in the lobby; they offer a powerful visual representation of peace and war, prompting reflection on service and sacrifice.
Consider visiting during a weekday to avoid weekend crowds and have a more intimate experience exploring the building's historical features.

Getting There

Walking

From Stearns Wharf, walk east along Cabrillo Boulevard for approximately 5-10 minutes. The Veterans' Memorial Building will be on your left, directly across from the beach. This is a straightforward, scenic walk along the waterfront.
Public Transport

From the Santa Barbara Transit Center (1020 Chapala Street), take any MTD bus route that serves Cabrillo Boulevard. Several routes pass along the waterfront. Get off at the stop closest to the intersection of Cabrillo Boulevard and Castillo Street. The Veterans' Memorial Building is a short walk east from there. A single ride on MTD costs $1.75.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From downtown Santa Barbara, a taxi or ride-share to the Veterans' Memorial Building will typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and surge pricing. Direct the driver to 112 W Cabrillo Blvd. The journey should take approximately 5-10 minutes.
Driving

From Highway 101, exit at Castillo Street and head towards the ocean. Turn left onto Cabrillo Boulevard. The Veterans' Memorial Building will be on your right. Limited street parking is available along Cabrillo Boulevard, metered parking costs $2.50 per hour. Alternatively, paid parking is available at the nearby Pershing Park lot. Rates in effect 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. First 75 Minutes FREE! Each additional hour or part $2.50.

Discover more about Veterans' Memorial Building

The Santa Barbara Veterans' Memorial Building, prominently situated on the city's waterfront at 112 W Cabrillo Blvd, is more than just a building; it's a living memorial and a vibrant community center. This historic landmark, with its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Santa Barbara County residents who served in the United States Armed Forces. The building's history dates back to November 17, 1930, when Santa Barbara County acquired the 5.5-acre site for $6,200. The vision was to create a space dedicated to veterans, a project spearheaded by the American Legion Post No. 56 and politician C.L. Preisker. Construction was significantly aided by federal funds during the 1930s, and the building officially opened in 1936. The architectural design, executed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, reflects Santa Barbara's aesthetic heritage. The building's exterior is characterized by its white stucco walls, red-tile roof, and arched windows. Inside, the building features several rooms available for rent, including the Santa Barbara Room (seats 240), the Cabrillo Room and Ocean View Room (each seats 75), and the Harbor Room (seats 20). These spaces accommodate a wide range of activities, from private events and monthly meetings to classes and conferences. One of the building's most striking features is the collection of murals displayed in the lobby. One mural depicts scenes of peace and prosperity, while its counterpart portrays the realities of war. These murals serve as a constant reminder of the duality of human experience and the importance of striving for peace while honoring those who have served in conflict. The Medal Room is another significant space within the Veterans' Memorial Building. It houses a collection of medals and commendations earned by local veterans, offering visitors a chance to pay their respects to the men and women who have served the country. Among the displays, visitors might even spot a tribute to Ronald Reagan, a notable figure with ties to California and military service. Beyond its historical and architectural significance, the Veterans' Memorial Building plays an active role in the Santa Barbara community. It hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including summer camps, conferences, weddings, and parties. Local organizations, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, also utilize the building for regular meetings, further solidifying its role as a community hub. The building's location on Cabrillo Boulevard places it within easy reach of other popular attractions. Stearns Wharf, a historic wooden pier, is just a short walk away, offering shops, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. The Santa Barbara Harbor, with its numerous boating activities and waterfront dining options, is also nearby. The grounds surrounding the Veterans' Memorial Building also hold historical significance. The area was once home to Chumash villages for nearly 5,000 years, adding another layer of depth to the site's cultural heritage. This connection to the past was a key factor in the City Council's decision to declare the building and its grounds a historic landmark in 2013. Visiting the Veterans' Memorial Building offers a multifaceted experience. It's a chance to learn about Santa Barbara's history, honor the service of local veterans, and appreciate the building's architectural beauty. Whether attending an event, exploring the murals and Medal Room, or simply enjoying the ocean views, a visit to this landmark is a meaningful way to connect with the community and its past. The Santa Barbara Veterans' Memorial Building stands as a testament to the city's enduring commitment to honoring its veterans and fostering a strong sense of community. Its rich history, architectural significance, and ongoing role as a gathering place make it a valuable asset to Santa Barbara and a compelling destination for visitors. While the building primarily serves as an event venue and meeting space, its historical significance and the tributes it houses make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in local history and military appreciation. The building's proximity to other waterfront attractions also makes it easy to incorporate into a broader exploration of Santa Barbara's coastal area. The Veterans' Memorial Building is a place where history, community, and remembrance converge, offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. It is a place to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served, to appreciate the beauty of the building and its surroundings, and to connect with the vibrant spirit of Santa Barbara. In conclusion, the Santa Barbara Veterans' Memorial Building is more than just a building; it is a living memorial, a community hub, and a testament to the enduring values of service, sacrifice, and remembrance. Its location on the city's premier waterfront, its architectural beauty, and its ongoing role in the community make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Santa Barbara.

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Santa Barbara Veterans' Memorial Building: A Waterfront Landmark

A brief summary to Veterans' Memorial Building

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Veterans' Memorial Building

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Veterans' Memorial Building

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Veterans' Memorial Building

Waterfront Santa Barbara

Syuxtun Story Circle

Burton Mound State Historical Landmark

Funk Zone Studios

Area 5.1 Winery

Fess Parker Funk Zone

Santa Barbara Trolley

Andalucia Building

Hastings Adobe

Faith Mission

Residential building

Santa Barbara Historic Lndmrk

De La Guerra Plaza

Casa Covarrubias

Unmissable attractions to see

West Beach

MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation

State Street Visitor Center

Stearns Wharf

Moreton Bay Fig Tree

Pier Santa Barbara

Old Spanish Days Carriage

The Funk Zone

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

217 Stearns Wharf

Eat This Shoot That!

Funk Zone Art Mural

Lil' Toot Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Carriage and Western Art Museum

Fernald Mansion

Essential places to dine

Finney's Crafthouse - Santa Barbara

Blackbird

Bluewater Grill

Santo Mezcal

Toma Restaurant & Bar

Loquita Santa Barbara

Longboard's Grill

Santa Barbara FisHouse

The Lark Santa Barbara

Lucky Penny

Moby Dick Restaurant

The Nook Santa Barbara

Waterline

Shalhoob's Funk Zone Patio

Santa Barbara Shellfish Company

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Loveworn

The Blue Door

The Shopkeepers

Dylan Star Boutique

Stabiles Boutique

Old Wharf Trading Co

Deep Blue Sea

Jules by the Sea - FUNK ZONE

Asher Market

The Vintage Fox, Antiques & Gift Shoppe

Urban Outfitters

Arzoo’s woVen

The Lotus Boutique

Only In Santa Barbara

Antique Alley

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Pearl Social Santa Barbara

Test Pilot