Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Santa Barbara, US
75% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (792 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Narrated Tour

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Food and drinks

Meeting Point

Departs Thursday - Monday at the Visitor center located at 1 Garden st. Departure times are 10:00am, 12:00pm and 2:00pm.

Meeting point

1 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 , United States

End point

End Point

Departs Thursday - Monday at the Visitor center located at 1 Garden st. Departure times are 10:00am, 12:00pm and 2:00pm.

Meeting point

1 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Stearns Wharf

Enjoy the seaside sights and sounds of Stearns Wharf, one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic landmarks. Named for builder John P. Stearns and located at the end of State Street, it is California’s oldest working wharf and the perfect spot to soak up the sun, salty breezes and stunning views of the impossibly blue Pacific. The Wharf was completed in 1872 and served the passengers and freight shipping needs of California’s south coast for more than 25 years. Today it’s one of Santa Barbara’s most visited attractions and a mainstay of the Waterfront district.

2

East Beach

East Beach is a favorite spot for locals for volleyball (including pro tournaments), skating, paddle sports, art shows and just plain relaxing. It also has a great panoramic view of the Santa Barbara mountains.

3

Andree Clark Bird Refuge

Andrée Clark Bird Refuge is a 42-acre open space park that includes a 29-acre lake that is an artificially modified estuary that supports brackish wetlands. Three islands are located in the lake. The park provides passive recreation opportunities such as bird watching, hiking, and biking. Boating and fishing are prohibited, as is feeding the wildlife. The Bird Refuge is a scenic resource with views to and from scenic highways (East Cabrillo Boulevard and Highway 101) and provides a view of aquatic and terrestrial habitats.

4

Butterfly Beach

Located in the chic and laid-back village of Montecito, Butterfly Beach is a favorite among Santa Barbara locals. The beach’s pristine shoreline is ideal for swimming, surfing and sunbathing, and its unique east-west orientation makes for some truly spectacular sunrises AND sunsets. Spend the better part of your day lounging with a good book, or venture into the ocean and take on the waves in a kayak. Keep your eyes peeled and you might even see a star or two—Montecito is home to several celebs. Whatever activities you include in your day by the sea, Butterfly Beach is the perfect setting.

5

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History has a rich history dating back to 1876. Exhibits and collections change throughout the year to educate and entertain children and adults alike. Make sure to check out the iconic 73-foot Blue Whale skeleton displayed out front!

6
Old Mission Santa Barbara

Old Mission Santa Barbara is a community of many parts, but one spirit. The Mission has served as a gathering place and spiritual home for many since its establishment in 1786. Today the Mission operations include a museum, gift shop, cemetery and mausoleum, and several historic gardens, as well as being the home to a community of Franciscan Friars on about 15 acres. The Mission is also home base for Saint Barbara Parish, which operates under the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the Santa Bárbara Mission Archive-Library, a separate Franciscan-sponsored non-profit, and a Novitiate which provides the first year of education for Friars in training from across the United States.

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
7

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

or a firsthand look at one of the country’s most beautiful public buildings, look no further than the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Designed in the Spanish-Colonial style and completed in 1929, the fully operational Courthouse is an iconic Santa Barbara landmark with its distinctive four-faced clock tower, red tile roofs, elegant arches and verdant sunken garden and grounds. Through the self-guided tours, visitors can get a visual history lesson from the elaborate hand-painted murals, marvel at ornate wrought-iron chandeliers and climb to the top of the clock tower for an incredible panoramic view of Santa Barbara and beyond.

8
El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park

Located in downtown Santa Barbara, El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park (El Presidio SHP) is a 5 1/2-acre park that preserves the site of the last Spanish fortress, or presidio, founded in Alta (Upper) California in 1782. Two of the fort‘s original adobe buildings still exist and are open to the public — El Cuartel and the Cañedo Adobe.

9

Santa Barbara Waterfront

At Santa Barbara Harbor you will find interesting stores, delicious seafood restaurants and the occasional celebrity yacht. Naturally sheltered by mountains and islands on a southward facing coastline, it is one of the best harbors in the world.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Santa Barbara Trolley Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Arrive early for good seating.
  • icon
    Check out the nearby Santa Barbara Zoo.
  • icon
    Visit the Courthouse for stunning views.
  • icon
    Consider dining at The Lark after.
  • icon
    Explore the gardens at Old Mission.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Step aboard Santa Barbara's Original & Longest Running Trolley Tour and embark on a 90-minute journey to discover the enchanting American Riviera. This fully narrated tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the city's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. For the past three decades, this tour has been a beloved tradition, offering visitors a unique perspective on Santa Barbara's rich history and vibrant culture. Prepare to be captivated as you explore the Santa Barbara Courthouse, Santa Barbara Zoo, Museum of Natural History, the historic Santa Barbara Mission, and more. The tour is led by energetic and knowledgeable guides who bring the city to life with fascinating stories and insights. Conveniently located just a short walk from Stearns Wharf, the tour departs from the Visitor Center at 1 Garden St. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the picturesque streets of Santa Barbara.

What to expect?

Embarking on the Santa Barbara Trolley Tour promises a multitude of delightful experiences. Throughout the 90-minute journey, you can expect to be mesmerized by the stunning architecture of the Santa Barbara Courthouse, a Spanish-Moorish masterpiece that stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage. The tour also takes you to the Santa Barbara Zoo, where you can marvel at a diverse collection of exotic animals. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature at the Museum of Natural History, where fascinating exhibits and interactive displays await. The tour's highlight is a visit to the iconic Santa Barbara Mission, a breathtakingly beautiful Spanish mission that showcases the city's spiritual and cultural roots. As you traverse the city streets on the trolley, you'll be treated to captivating stories and intriguing anecdotes about Santa Barbara's past and present. Prepare to be enchanted by the city's beauty, history, and vibrant atmosphere.

Who is this for?

The Santa Barbara Trolley Tour is designed for everyone seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable way to explore Santa Barbara. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply a curious traveler, this tour caters to a diverse range of interests. Families, solo travelers, and groups of friends can all find something to enjoy on this tour. History buffs will appreciate the opportunity to delve into the rich heritage of Santa Barbara, while nature enthusiasts can revel in the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters. The tour is suitable for all age groups, making it an ideal activity for a family outing or a fun day with friends. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor wanting to experience the essence of Santa Barbara, the trolley tour offers an inclusive and immersive experience for everyone.

Why book this?

The Santa Barbara Trolley Tour offers a unique and captivating way to explore the city's most iconic landmarks and attractions. Unlike traditional walking tours, this trolley tour provides a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, allowing you to see more of Santa Barbara in less time. The fully narrated tour ensures that you won't miss out on any fascinating details or hidden stories that make the city truly special. The energetic and knowledgeable tour guides bring the history and culture of Santa Barbara to life, making the tour both educational and entertaining. The tour's flexible schedule, with departures on Thursdays to Mondays, ensures that you can easily fit it into your itinerary. Additionally, the central pick-up location at the Visitor Center on 1 Garden St. makes it easily accessible to all. Embark on this trolley tour to discover the enchanting beauty and rich heritage of Santa Barbara in a fun and engaging way.

Good to know

When booking the Santa Barbara Trolley Tour, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, allowing you the freedom to explore local culinary delights at your own pace. The tour's itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks and attractions, providing ample opportunities for stunning photographs and memorable moments. Departure times are at 10:00am, 12:00pm, and 2:00pm, ensuring flexibility in planning your day. The tour is conducted in English and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as the trolley provides a comfortable and accessible mode of transportation. Prepare for an immersive experience by wearing comfortable shoes and dressing in layers to accommodate the changing weather. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of Santa Barbara as you cruise through its picturesque streets.

Reviews

Previous participants of the Santa Barbara Trolley Tour have expressed their satisfaction and delight with the experience. Travelers have praised the knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guides who provided captivating narratives and intriguing insights into the city's history and culture. Visitors were particularly impressed with the range of attractions covered, from the majestic Santa Barbara Courthouse to the fascinating Museum of Natural History. The trolley tour allowed them to see and learn about Santa Barbara's most significant landmarks in a convenient and enjoyable manner. Many reviewers appreciated the flexibility of the tour's schedule, making it easy to fit into their travel plans. Overall, participants raved about the exceptional value and unforgettable memories created during their time on the Santa Barbara Trolley Tour.

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