Just a few decades ago, a previously funky collection of dilapidated arts and craft studios, near Stearns Wharf and the waterfront, began to evolve into an artsy, trendy area of Santa Barbara, a major Central Coast city.
It’s chock-a-block with wine-tasting rooms, craft breweries, small local shops, and restaurants – and on busy weekends, especially in summer – lots of people moseying about.
Helena Avenue Bakery, Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, State Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
Lucky Penny, Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
Tyger Tyger, East Yanonali Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
SeaVees Santa Barbara, East Mason Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
Riviera Beach House, State Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
Lama Dog Tap Room + Bottle Shop, Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. Santa Barbara, Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
Dart Coffee Co, East Yanonali Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
The Waterman, East Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
Best Places for Breakfast in Santa Barbara
Dart Coffee Co.
Order a cuppa insanely tasty coffee or tea and a pastry or breakfast item and head across the street to nab a table in Dart Coffee Co.’s serene garden, where you can savor your treats with other SB creative types. The ethically sourced beans are roasted on site. Try the churro latte.
Best Things To Do in the Morning in Santa Barbara
Spend the morning exploring the hands-on exhibits at MOXI (details below).
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
A hands-on interactive museum with three floors of exhibits, MOXI encourages visitors of all ages to explore and experiment with science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through fun and immersive experiences. Head up to the rooftop for stellar views.
Best Places for Lunch in Santa Barbara
Tyger Tyger
This California-Southeast Asia fusion eatery is best known for its plant-forward, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, all made from scratch with sustainably sourced local ingredients. Try the chicken khao soi, crispy pork belly with grilled sticky rice, or the salad with kelp noodles.
Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in Santa Barbara
• Walkabout: Start your walking tour at one of the visitor centers in the Funk Zone, and pick up a detailed walking map. It will guide you to vibrant and colorful street art, including several murals and art installations that are perfect for snapping a photo or two.
• Shopping Spree: The Funk Zone is home to several independent shops and boutiques, where you can find unique clothing, jewelry, and gifts. Some popular options include SeaVees, The Blue Door, and Dylan Star clothing boutique.
Best Places for Dinner in Santa Barbara
Rare Society
Santa Maria style grilled meats take center stage at this upscale vintage Las Vegas-style steakhouse, but non-meat eaters have other options. Splurge with friends and start with the seafood tower, then see where your appetites lead you.
Best Places to Stay in Santa Barbara
Bonus Pro Tips
Park in the public lot near the Garden Street visitor center and take a back alley (look for Brass Bear Brewing) to Anacapa/Helena streets and walk north to be in the heart of the Funk Zone.
Meander in Montecito