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Reagan Rancho del Cielo

Discover the soul of Ronald Reagan at Rancho del Cielo, his beloved 'Western White House' nestled in the Santa Ynez Mountains, preserved by the Young America's Foundation.

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Nestled in the Santa Ynez Mountains near Santa Barbara, Rancho del Cielo, also known as the Reagan Ranch, offers a unique glimpse into the life and values of President Ronald Reagan. This 688-acre ranch, once dubbed the 'Western White House,' served as a retreat for Reagan during his presidency, a place where he could connect with nature and escape the pressures of Washington. Today, preserved by the Young America's Foundation, the ranch provides an intimate look at Reagan's down-to-earth character and his deep connection to the American West. Visitors can explore the original adobe house, the Secret Service outpost, and the tranquil surroundings that inspired Reagan, gaining insight into his leadership style and the principles he held dear. While access to the ranch itself is limited to YAF events and private tours, the spirit of Rancho del Cielo lives on, offering a powerful reminder of Reagan's legacy and his vision for America. The Reagan Ranch Center in downtown Santa Barbara provides further insight through exhibits and artifacts.

A brief summary to Reagan Rancho del Cielo

Local tips

  • Access to the actual Reagan Ranch (Rancho del Cielo) is limited. Check the Young America's Foundation website for information on tours and events, as it's not generally open to the public.
  • Visit the Reagan Ranch Center in downtown Santa Barbara for a comprehensive overview of Reagan's life, presidency, and the history of the ranch, with interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • Consider attending a Young America's Foundation event at the Reagan Ranch Center to hear from conservative speakers and engage in discussions about Reagan's ideas and values.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Reaching Rancho del Cielo involves a drive into the Santa Ynez Mountains. From Santa Barbara, take Highway 101 North to Highway 154. Follow Highway 154 over San Marcos Pass. As you descend into the Santa Ynez Valley, look for the turnoff for Painted Cave Road. This is a winding mountain road. Continue on Painted Cave Road, which eventually turns into a dirt road as you approach the ranch. Be aware that the final stretch to the ranch is a private road, and access is restricted. The Young America's Foundation typically manages access for scheduled events. There are no tolls or parking fees associated with the final approach, but access is only granted with permission from YAF.

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Discover more about Reagan Rancho del Cielo

Rancho del Cielo, meaning 'Ranch in the Sky,' is more than just a property; it's a tangible piece of American history and a window into the soul of Ronald Reagan. Situated atop the Santa Ynez Mountain range northwest of Santa Barbara, California, this 688-acre ranch served as the beloved retreat for President Reagan and his wife, Nancy, for over two decades. During his time in office, it was often referred to as the 'Western White House,' a place where Reagan could escape the pressures of Washington, connect with the land, and recharge his spirit. The history of Rancho del Cielo predates the Reagans. Originally named Rancho de los Picos, it was homesteaded by José Jesús Pico, a descendant of Santiago de la Cruz Pico, who arrived with the Anza Expedition in 1776. The Pico family built the original adobe house in 1871 and owned the ranch until 1941. Over the years, the ranch changed hands a few times before Ronald and Nancy Reagan purchased it in 1974, near the end of his second term as Governor of California. For the Reagans, it was love at first sight. As Reagan himself said, 'From the first day we saw it, Rancho del Cielo cast a spell over us. No place before or since has given Nancy and me the joy and serenity it does.' The ranch is remarkably modest, reflecting Reagan's down-to-earth nature. The adobe house, originally built in the 1870s, is relatively small, with a rustic charm. It has no central heating, relying instead on fireplaces for warmth. The Reagans expanded the house slightly to accommodate their Secret Service detail, but it remained a simple and unpretentious home. The property also includes a pond called Lake Lucky, stables, a barn, and various outbuildings. During his presidency, Reagan spent a significant amount of time at Rancho del Cielo, using it as a working ranch and a place to host world leaders. He famously signed the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 at the ranch. Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev were among the distinguished guests who visited the 'Western White House.' These visits underscored the ranch's importance as a place where Reagan could conduct business in a relaxed and informal setting. Reagan was deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the ranch. He enjoyed clearing brush, mending fences, and riding horses. He often wore his signature cowboy boots and a Western-style hat, embracing the ranch lifestyle. The ranch provided him with a sense of normalcy and a connection to the American West, which he deeply cherished. After leaving the presidency in 1989, the Reagans continued to use Rancho del Cielo as a retreat. However, as Reagan's health declined due to Alzheimer's disease, his visits became less frequent. He last visited the ranch in 1995, and Nancy last visited in 1998. In that same year, Nancy made the difficult decision to sell the property to the Young America's Foundation (YAF), a conservative youth organization. YAF has preserved Rancho del Cielo as a living monument to Reagan's ideas, values, and lasting accomplishments. While the ranch is not generally open to the public, YAF offers tours and programs for students and supporters, providing them with an opportunity to experience the ranch firsthand and learn about Reagan's legacy. Visitors can explore the adobe house, the Secret Service outpost, the Freedom Wall, and the tranquil surroundings that inspired Reagan. To further expand access to Reagan's life and legacy, YAF operates the Reagan Ranch Center in downtown Santa Barbara. This center features exhibits and artifacts that showcase Reagan's life, presidency, and the history of Rancho del Cielo. Visitors can view a 5,000-pound section of the Berlin Wall, Reagan's Jeep Scrambler, and the patio table where he signed the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981. The Reagan Ranch Center offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for those who want to learn more about Ronald Reagan and his impact on American history. Rancho del Cielo is more than just a historical site; it's a symbol of Reagan's values: freedom, individual responsibility, and limited government. It's a place where visitors can connect with the spirit of the American West and gain a deeper understanding of the man who led the nation through a period of significant change. The ranch serves as a reminder of Reagan's enduring legacy and his vision for a strong and prosperous America. Visiting Rancho del Cielo and the Reagan Ranch Center offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the world through the eyes of Ronald Reagan. It's a chance to learn about his life, his presidency, and the values that shaped his leadership. Whether you're a history buff, a political enthusiast, or simply curious about one of America's most iconic presidents, a visit to Rancho del Cielo is an unforgettable experience. The Young America's Foundation ensures that Rancho del Cielo remains a place of inspiration and education for future generations. By preserving the ranch and offering educational programs, YAF is committed to passing on Reagan's ideas and values to young people, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire and shape the future of America. While the ranch itself is nestled in a remote location, the Reagan Ranch Center in Santa Barbara provides easy access to exhibits and information about Rancho del Cielo. The center is located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, surrounded by local attractions and dining experiences. It's a perfect starting point for exploring Reagan's legacy and discovering the beauty and history of Santa Barbara. Rancho del Cielo stands as a testament to the power of place and the enduring legacy of Ronald Reagan. It's a reminder of his deep connection to the American West, his commitment to conservative principles, and his unwavering belief in the promise of America. A visit to Rancho del Cielo is an opportunity to connect with history, reflect on the values that shaped a nation, and be inspired by the life and legacy of Ronald Reagan.

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