Top Santa Barbara Historical Tours

Learn all about Santa Barbara’s spookiest ghost stories and supposedly haunted highlights—and enjoy top-rated local wine as part of the experience—on this two-in-one, small-group tour. Meet your guide right at an area winery, indulge in sips and samples, and listen to their tales of paranormal encounters. Then embark on a walking tour around town, from El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park to City Hall and Chinatown.

Learn all about Santa Barbara’s wealth of history—including its many ghostly encounters and macabre events—on this small-group, after-dark walking tour. Meet your guide right downtown, and set off: you’ll visit key local landmarks like the El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, City Hall, Santa Barbara Historical Museum, and more. You’ll even visit what is supposedly the most haunted building in California—and may just encounter disembodied specters as you go.

Discover a side of Solvang that few other visitors get to experience—and tap into the region’s supernatural lore—on this evening ghost tour. Meet your guide in the center of town and set off with EMF meters, dowsing rods, and other ghost-hunting tools to aid you. You’ll see historic highlights of the town, and can attempt to spot local spirits, all while your guide shares Solvang’s spookiest ghost stories.

Explore California’s gorgeous coast on a scenic kayak tour. With a knowledgeable, experienced guide leading the way, bring the whole family and navigate Santa Barbara’s picturesque waterfront. Learn about the region's history and wildlife, admire the rugged coastal mountains, and watch for pelicans and egrets, dolphins and sea lions. You may even see a family of gray whales on its annual migration.

Travelers who aren't afraid of spooky stories will love this ghost-themed walking tour of Santa Barbara. Learn about the town's history and culture through its otherworldly myths and legends. Over 90 minutes you'll explore some of Santa Barbara's most historic places while having fun. This is a small-group tour so you won't have to strain to hear your guide.

Stroll through downtown Santa Barbara with a guide and small group to get the most out of your visit. You'll benefit from insightful commentary as you visit some of the top attractions, as well as some eateries you might not find on your own. Purchase food or drinks at the three historical cocktail bars and listen to the explanation of why each is significant. Traveling with a small group means you'll get plenty of attention from your guide.

Learn the stories, mystery, and intrigue of spirits living in the French Quarter, including vampires, ghosts, the supernatural, murders, suicides, and hauntings. Your guide will introduce you to the underground world of Voodoo, chilling horror stories, and murderous mysteries for a fully authentic take on Nola's dark side.

The Funk Zone (a business, arts, and culture district located just moments from the beach) is one of Santa Barbara’s hippest and most distinctive neighborhoods—and this small-group walking tour makes it easy to discover its highlights. Meet right outside the train station, and come thirsty: you’ll sip the fruits of local vineyards at two different wine tasting rooms. Other stops include an ice cream parlor, plus artsy neighborhood landmarks.

Discover many of Santa Barbara’s key historical highlights—and most scenic vistas—on this private, half-day tour. Pick a time that works best for you, and set off to explore landmarks like the Santa Barbara Courthouse and Clock Tower, Mission Santa Barbara, and the More Mesa Preserve. You’ll also hike along the city’s seaside cliffs, will learn about the local Chumash people, will discover the Santa Barbara Harbor, and more.

For a foodie-friendly outing combining local history with California wine culture, you can enjoy the best of both with this Santa Barbara small-group tour. Start your midday adventure with convenient meet-up in the downtown area. With your guide leading the way, you can sip wine at two boutique tasting rooms, sample artisanal chocolates, and learn about the region's famed wine industry and top winemakers.

Santa Barbara is filled with charm, history, and beauty. Explore the city with a local guide to learn its fascinating facts, intriguing legends, and elements that make the city so special. Stories lurk everywhere here—the streets, the buildings, the monuments. This walking tour is designed with newcomers in mind who want to uncover the elements they may not uncover on their own and see the most of the city that they can on their visit.

Savor the best of historic Santa Barbara on a 3.5-hour culinary walking tour through the heart of this scenic, seaside city. Meet local chefs and artisans as you explore alongside your local guide, and get an insider’s take on the vibrant gourmet scene. Sample locally-made wines, handcrafted chocolate and gourmet cheese at a series of six tasting stops that include a public market, wineries and boutiques. Learn a bit of local history as you trace the relaxed course, which blends essential landmarks with hidden gems and local favorites.

Our tour guides are locals and we know lots of fun facts and history of the sights we show. We do research on each point of interest in order to give you interesting stories. Because our tour is on bikes we can show you Channel Drive and State Street Promenade which can't be accessed by car. Our comfortable and fun electric bikes let you see more in less time. You'll love the 360 degree view of downtown and the coastline from the Courthouse tower and the story of how it was built. We'll tell you the story behind the sights including the interesting people involved. We love telling you about our favorite restaurants and ice cream stores. Some of them are off State Street and don't even have any signs. We ride right through the neighborhood our owner grew up in. Many people say our tours are the highlight of their trip to Santa Barbara.

Enjoy a world class private tour with narration by Laure Spiers, a legendary tour guide specializing in the American West. You'll use the Pintours app to control the tour to play exactly on your schedule. If you want to skip, or need more time at a location, you have control. You'll visit Santa Barbara's County Courthouse, Old Mission, Funk Zone, and East Beach, with informative commentary at every stop along the way.

Are you looking for a way to see downtown Santa Barbara without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour. • Find out if Santa Barbara really is California’s answer to the French Riviera on this walking tour through the idyllic seaside city • Hear from producer Mindy Flanagan, who co-founded Tour Freely with her husband, Jerry • Do it all in 75 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Embark on an engaging scavenger hunt through the charming streets of Solvang, California. Explore the Danish-style architecture. Marvel at the windmills and the replica of a tower built for the King of Denmark. Stroll the grounds of the beautiful and historic Mission Santa Ines. Explore and see the many unique shops, restaurants and galleries. Go at your own pace and see the best of what Solvang has to offer. Ready to discover Solvang in a whole new way? Let the adventure begin!

Welcome to our skate tour! One of our favorite parts about being a professional skateboarder was searching the streets for skate spots and hitting skateparks in Santa Barbara. We are excited to introduce our skate tour that brings that same experience to Santa Barbara. We will cater to each group and skate the “iconic” spots where we hit super famous areas in all the videos.

Santa Barbara is a treasure trove of rich history and architectural magnificence. Embark on a private walking tour, diving deep into the city’s captivating tales and stunning landmarks. Marvel at the El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, a testament to California’s early days, and admire the intricate designs of the City Hall. Let the grandeur of the Granada Theatre sweep you away, all while delving into fascinating stories of the city’s foundation and the traditional art of adobe construction. Beyond these notable attractions, there’s even more to explore in Santa Barbara, with these being just a glimpse of its multifaceted charm.

Step into a world where history, nature, and vibrant city life blend seamlessly on our exclusive Santa Barbara tour. Begin your journey at the majestic Santa Barbara County Courthouse, marveling at its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and panoramic city views. Wander through the tranquil Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens, a botanical oasis filled with diverse plant life and serene koi ponds. Dive deep into the local heritage at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, uncovering stories that shaped this enchanting city. Stroll down State Street, the pulsating artery of Santa Barbara's shopping scene, where eclectic finds await. Experience the iconic Stearns Wharf, absorbing the bustling energy of the city's beloved pier. Conclude your adventure at the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbor, set against a breathtaking mountainous backdrop. This tour isn't just a journey; it's your chance to be the protagonist in an unforgettable story of discovery and wonder in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Embark on a personalized exploration of the Santa Ynez Valley, the heart of Santa Barbara’s renowned wine country, with this private, guided tour. Your journey unfolds amidst the serene beauty of rolling vineyards and sweeping landscapes, a visual treat for every nature lover. Learn about the region’s fascinating past, its unique terroir, and the process of winemaking from grape to glass. Visit three family-owned, boutique wineries, each narrating a unique tale through their exquisite wines. You’ll get the opportunity to sip on a variety of wines, appreciating the distinct notes and character each offers. In addition to wine, the region boasts of stunning views and intriguing historical sights, enhancing your tour experience. As the day unfolds, let the charm of Santa Barbara wine country captivate your senses, offering you a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure. Experience a true taste of Santa Barbara’s viticultural charm!

Experience the tantalizing fusion of Santa Barbara’s rich history and gourmet offerings on this immersive walking tour. Starting from the charming Santa Barbara Amtrak station, we’ll embark on a journey that perfectly blends the city’s historical architecture and modern gastronomic delights. Feel the city’s pulse as you meander through picturesque streets, capturing glimpses of iconic architectural marvels that resonate with the city’s Spanish Colonial heritage. As we thread through Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown, we’ll intersperse our historical discoveries with irresistible culinary interludes at renowned boutique establishments. Relish the elegance of handcrafted wines and the indulgence of artisanal chocolates, guaranteed to satiate even the most discerning palate. This tour promises a captivating exploration of Santa Barbara’s rich tapestry of history and gastronomy. It’s a delightful journey of cultural immersion and sensory delights that should not be missed.

Embark on an immersive taco tour in the heart of Santa Barbara. As you wander through the vibrant streets with a seasoned local guide, you’ll delve into both the rich history and delectable culinary offerings of the city. From colonial tales to architectural wonders, weave together the stories that shaped this coastal gem. The tour is meticulously curated, offering an exclusive tasting experience. Revel in distinct tacos, savor crunchy taquitos, and indulge in chips paired with artisanal salsa. To elevate your journey, some handpicked alcoholic beverages are paired perfectly with your tastings. Please note, the culinary selections have been thoughtfully chosen in advance, ensuring a seamless and diverse tasting palette, allowing guests to fully savor Santa Barbara’s taco culture. Join us for a fusion of history and flavors in this unforgettable experience!