Free & Affordable Activities in Santa Barbara

Perched on thirteen serene acres overlooking the Pacific, the Old Mission Santa Barbara is one of California’s most iconic and well-preserved Spanish missions. The site features a stunning Mission-style church, a nine-room museum filled with historical artifacts, and a peaceful Historic Cemetery and Mausoleum. Lush gardens—including the La Huerta Historical Garden with authentic plants from the Mission era—add to the charm and history of this beautiful coastal landmark.

Highlights:

• Classic Spanish Mission architecture with a breathtaking ocean view
• Nine-room museum showcasing early California artifacts and art
• Peaceful cemetery and mausoleum on-site
• La Huerta Historical Garden with Mission-era plants and trees
• Intricate colonial-era sculptures and historic church interior

Pro Tip:

Visit in the late afternoon for golden-hour lighting on the church’s iconic façade, and don’t miss the museum gift shop for locally made items and books on California history.

2201 Laguna St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Phone: 805-682-4713
santabarbaramission.org

Located in the heart of downtown, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum brings the area’s past to life through engaging exhibits and thoughtfully curated programs. From the early days of the Chumash people to Santa Barbara’s Golden Age of film, aviation, and festivals, the museum offers a fascinating look at the people and events that shaped this coastal gem. It’s the perfect starting point for understanding the city’s rich cultural layers.

Highlights:

• Exhibits covering Chumash heritage through modern-day history
• Special features on early Hollywood, aviation, and the Fiesta festival
• Located in a historic adobe structure downtown
• Free or low-cost admission, great for families and history buffs
• Open Tuesday–Saturday, closed Sundays, Mondays, and holidays

Pro Tip:

Plan your visit midweek to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience—plus, check their calendar for special exhibits and seasonal events!

136 East De la Guerra, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: 805-966-1601
sbhistorical.org

A must-stop for food lovers, the Santa Barbara Public Market brings together a vibrant mix of locally and regionally sourced eats, drinks, and specialty goods—all under one stylish roof. Set in the heart of the city’s cultural and performing arts district, this urban marketplace is one of Santa Barbara’s top dining destinations, offering everything from craft beer and boutique wine to fresh seafood, artisan tacos, gourmet pasta, and more.

Highlights:

• Contemporary market with a variety of local vendors
• Located in Santa Barbara’s performing arts district
• Great spot for casual dining, drinks, or grabbing gourmet groceries
• Craft beer, local wines, and handmade eats in one central location
• Popular with both locals and visitors

Pro Tip:

Come hungry and sample your way through the market—then grab a seat in the open dining area or take your finds to-go for a beachside picnic.

38 West Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: 805-770-7702
sbpublicmarket.com

Just a short stroll from the waterfront, the Santa Barbara Carriage and Western Arts Museum is a hidden gem that transports visitors back to California’s Old West. Established in 1972, the museum showcases a unique collection of antique carriages, saddles, and Western memorabilia. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours or join a docent-led walk-through on select days—no reservation needed and admission is free!

Highlights:

• Extensive collection of 19th and early 20th-century carriages
• Historic saddles and gear from famous Western figures
• Located near the Santa Barbara waterfront
• Free self-guided and occasional docent-led tours
• Private tours available with advance reservation

Pro Tip:

Time your visit with one of the docent-led tours for fun stories and behind-the-scenes facts—plus, it’s a great break from the beach or nearby shops.

129 Castillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93102
Phone: 805-962-2353
carriagemuseum.org

Every summer, the city’s Spanish heritage comes to life during Old Spanish Days Fiesta, one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved and historic annual celebrations. Dating back to the Mission Days, this festive event celebrates the city's deep-rooted Spanish and Mexican traditions with a colorful mix of parades, flamenco dancing, live music, and mouthwatering food. Held over the first few days of August, the Fiesta draws big crowds and bigger energy—don’t miss it if you’re in town!

Highlights:

• Annual summer festival celebrating Santa Barbara’s Spanish heritage
• Parades, folkloric dancing, and authentic music performances
• Traditional food markets and local artisan booths
• Family-friendly fun in various downtown locations
• Typically held during the first week of August

Pro Tip:

Get to the parades and dancing events early—they fill up fast! Bring a folding chair and your appetite for tacos, tamales, and festive sweets.

129 Castillo St, Santa Barbara, CA
Phone: 805-962-8101
sbfiesta.org

Recommended Activities for Families

Tucked away on a peaceful five-acre property, the Potbellied & Miniature Pig Rescue & Sanctuary—affectionately known as Lil' Orphan Hammies—has been a safe haven for abandoned pigs since 1992. Founded by animal advocate Susan Parkinson, the sanctuary was born in response to the 1980s “pet pig craze” that left many pigs without homes. Today, it’s a bustling non-profit where up to 100 pigs enjoy spacious, tree-shaded enclosures, cozy hay beds, and the freedom to roam, nap, and just be pigs.

Highlights:

• Founded in 1992 as a safe haven for unwanted potbellied pigs
• Home to up to 100 rescued pigs at any time
• Spans five acres with secure, comfortable enclosures
• Non-profit organization supported by donations and volunteers
• Visitors may inquire about tours or ways to support the sanctuary

Pro Tip:

Call ahead to ask about visiting or volunteering—this is a working rescue, but they’re always happy to welcome fellow animal lovers who want to help or just say hello.

Phone: 805-693-9953
lilorphanhammies.org

Just a short drive from Santa Barbara in the quiet town of Goleta, the Coronado Butterfly Preserve offers a peaceful escape into nature. Spanning 9.3 acres, this hidden gem is home to eucalyptus groves, native coastal sage scrub, meadows, and woodlands—all buzzing with life. It’s especially known for hosting monarch butterflies during the winter months, but you’ll also spot birds, small wildlife, and the winding Devereux Creek throughout the preserve.

Highlights:

• 9.3-acre preserve open daily from sunrise to sunset
• Seasonal monarch butterfly habitat
• Home to native plants, birds, and Devereux Creek
• Easy walking trails and outdoor classroom space
• No admission fee—donations encouraged

Pro Tip:

Visit between late fall and early spring to catch the monarchs clustering in the eucalyptus trees. Early morning light makes for magical photos!

495 Coronado Dr, Goleta, CA 93117
Phone: 805-966-4520
sblandtrust.org

As one of Santa Barbara’s oldest and most beloved green spaces, Alameda Park offers two city blocks of shady trees, picnic spots, and fun for all ages. At the heart of the park is Kid’s World—an epic 8,000-square-foot playground complete with swings, slides, a castle, and multiple party zones. Designed for children ages 2 to 12, it’s one of the largest and most popular playgrounds in the city. With its rare trees, historic bandstand, and open lawns, the park also hosts many community events, including the lively Summer Solstice Celebration.

Highlights:

• Historic city park with rare trees and open lawns
• Kid’s World playground spans 8,000 square feet
• Slides, swings, castles, and reserved party zones
• Picnic areas (drop-in and reservable), restrooms, and a bandstand
• Annual events like the Summer Solstice celebration

Pro Tip:

If you’re traveling with kids, plan a stop at Kid’s World—and bring snacks or a picnic to enjoy under the shady trees. Early mornings are quietest!

1400 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Phone: 805-564-5418
sbparksandrec.santabarbaraca.gov

Tucked into the sandstone cliffs along Highway 154, Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park offers a rare glimpse into the sacred artistry of the Chumash Native Americans. The small cave, carved into the rock, features some of the most vivid and best-preserved examples of Chumash rock art still in existence. A short climb up a dozen stone steps brings visitors to the gated entrance, where special viewing holes—one for adults and one for kids—allow for close observation and photography without harming this fragile cultural treasure.

Highlights:

• Historic cave featuring Chumash Native American rock art
• Set in striking sandstone boulders above Highway 154
• Short stair climb from roadside parking to the cave entrance
• Viewing holes in the protective gate for adults and children
• Interpretive signage explains the history and cultural significance

Pro Tip:

Bring a flashlight or visit when the sun is overhead—natural light is key for seeing the details of the ancient artwork through the viewing holes.

CA-154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
Phone: 805-733-3713
parks.ca.gov