Santa Barbara’s 10 Best Historical Tours: Which To Choose?

Santa Barbara stands out for its captivating blend of Spanish architecture, lively arts scene, and storied past. Its well-preserved historic landmarks, from the El Presidio de Santa Barbara to the elegant City Hall, make it a perfect city for exploring through engaging tours. Whether you’re into architecture, ghost tales, or culinary history, you’ll find options that turn your visit into an immersive experience. A personal favorite is the Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Walking Tour, which offers a tailored, in-depth dive into the city’s most iconic sites. For a spooky twist, the Santa Barbara Ghost Tours “Dead of the Night” brings out the city’s darker tales, complete with ghostly legends and eerie sights.

Santa Barbara’s variety of walking, biking, tasting, and even cocktail tours means you can tailor your experience to your interests and activity level. Whether you prefer a private guided stroll, a ghostly evening walk, or a lively food and drink crawl, there’s something that will fit your style. Let’s explore what makes each tour special.

1. Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Walking Tour

At number 1, this private walking tour offers a personalized look into Santa Barbara’s most notable sites and lesser-known treasures. Starting from your preferred time, your guide will craft a custom itinerary, ensuring your interests are front and center. The tour covers landmarks like El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, built in 1782 from adobe bricks, and the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, showcasing local history and architecture. One of the highlights is the chance to see original rooms, soldiers’ gardens, and a chapel at the Presidio, where you’ll learn how early settlers used local materials for building.

What truly sets this tour apart is the flexibility. Guests love how the guide’s tailored approach reveals stories and sites they might never stumble across alone. Reviewers mention Sully’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, with comments like, “Sully Israel is passionate about the history of Santa Barbara and brings the past to life.” This private tour is ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, educational experience that can adapt to your pace. The price is $99 per person for about 2 to 3 hours, making it good value for a personalized exploration.

Bottom line: If you want a flexible, private introduction to Santa Barbara’s rich architecture and history, this walk is hard to beat.

2. Santa Barbara Ghost Tours “Dead of the Night” History, Mystery!

For those fascinated by ghost stories and paranormal legends, this small-group Ghost Tour is a perfect choice. Starting at dusk, it takes you on a 2-hour walk through Santa Barbara’s most haunted sites, including the El Presidio de Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, and the El Paseo Building. The legend of California’s most haunted building adds a spooky twist, and your guide shares tales of disembodied spirits, mysterious sightings, and historical tragedies.

Guests enjoy the personalized attention offered by the cap of 15 people and the chance to see Santa Barbara through a mysterious lens. Many reviewers mention the thrill of hearing ghostly footsteps or seeing unexplained phenomena, like one who wrote, “We heard ghost footsteps with our own ears.” The tour is priced at $55, making it a fun, memorable evening for those interested in local lore and spooky stories.

Bottom line: Perfect for night owls and ghost enthusiasts, this tour offers a memorable blend of history and haunting tales.

3. Historic Santa Barbara Food Tasting Tour

If your idea of history involves delicious bites and local flavors, this Food Tasting Tour is a culinary journey through Santa Barbara’s vibrant food scene. Over around 3.5 hours, you’ll visit six stops, including the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and the historic La Arcada Courtyard. You’ll meet chefs and artisans, sampling local wines, chocolates, and cheeses, all while hearing stories about the city’s development.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of historic sights and gourmet tastes. Reviewers love the “informative, friendly guide” and the chance to discover hidden culinary gems. The tour is priced at $125, and the immersive experience is ideal for food lovers and history buffs alike—especially those interested in local culture and artisan foods.

Bottom line: If you want to combine Santa Barbara’s history with its culinary scene, this tour offers a delightful, flavorful experience.

4. Santa Barbara Downtown Cocktails and History Walking Tour

Number 4 on our list is a 3-hour guided walk through downtown Santa Barbara, emphasizing both history and craft cocktails. Starting at Totally Cali Tours, you’ll explore historic sights while stopping at three historic cocktail bars—each with its own story. Your guide shares insights into Santa Barbara’s architectural highlights, and you get to enjoy small bites and drinks along the way.

Guests appreciate the intimate group size of 12 and the mix of urban exploration and local libations. One reviewer noted, “Melissa was so friendly and fun, making it a perfect balance of history and tastings.” For $85, this experience is fun for those who want to combine urban sightseeing with a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Bottom line: This is ideal for history and cocktail lovers who enjoy a leisurely, social exploration with a local guide.

5. Santa Barbara: 3-Hour Cocktail and History Walking Tour

This 3-hour tour emphasizes Santa Barbara’s pop culture, architecture, and history through the lens of its best cocktail bars. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll visit three venues, learning about the city’s evolution while sampling drinks and snacks. The tour’s relaxed pace makes it suitable for travelers wanting a combination of storytelling and socializing.

At just $85, the tour offers good value, blending local history with the city’s thriving bar scene. Past participants say it’s a great way to get a taste of Santa Barbara’s story and its nightlife.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a casual, fun way to experience Santa Barbara’s history and hospitality.

6. Santa Barbara: Wine, Chocolate and History Walking Tour

Number 6 combines history, wine, and chocolate in a 3.5-hour tour. You’ll visit boutique tasting rooms to sample two wines and savor two chocolates crafted by local artisans. The guide shares stories behind Santa Barbara’s wine culture and historic sites, making it an educational and tasty experience.

Guests love the balanced mix of tasting and storytelling, with comments like, “Learn about Santa Barbara’s history while enjoying local wines and chocolates.” At $135, the tour offers a rich experience for culinary enthusiasts and history lovers seeking a relaxed, flavorful outing.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with wine and chocolate tastings.

7. Santa Barbara Historical and Architectural Private Tour

For around $239, this private 3-hour tour dives deep into Santa Barbara’s key landmarks, like the City Hall (built in 1923), the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, and El Presidio. Your guide provides detailed stories behind the buildings, emphasizing architecture and historical significance.

Guests appreciate the personalized approach and detailed insights. One reviewer noted, “Joseph is a well-informed guide, and the tour is packed with info.” It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, tailored exploration of the city’s past and design. The tour includes visits to significant landmarks and offers a chance to take photos in classic California settings.

Bottom line: Ideal for architecture fans and those who prefer a private, in-depth experience.

8. Historic Santa Barbara Family Walking Adventure

Designed for families, this 3-hour tour combines Santa Barbara’s main landmarks with engaging activities. Highlights include the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Alice Keck Park, and the Santa Barbara Waterfront. The tour offers easy walks and interesting stories for kids and grown-ups alike.

While reviews are limited, the itinerary promises a fun, educational outing suitable for families looking for a mix of history, nature, and city life. The cost is $252.10 per person, reflecting the tailored experience and family-friendly approach.

Bottom line: A good option for families wanting an interactive, relaxed exploration of Santa Barbara.

9. Santa Barbara Architecture and History E-Bike Tour

Number 9 offers a 2-hour electric bike ride through Santa Barbara’s most iconic spots. You’ll see Old Mission Santa Barbara, Ablitt’s Tower, and the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture while effortlessly cycling around. The e-bike makes covering more ground than walking easy, especially on a warm day.

Guests will learn interesting stories about the architecture and history as they go, guided by an expert. While reviews are not yet available, the tour’s focus on efficient, engaging exploration makes it appealing for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with exercise.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who enjoy biking and learning about Santa Barbara’s architectural highlights.

10. Santa Barbara Craft Brewery and History Crawl

Lastly, beer lovers should consider the 3.5-hour craft brewery tour. Starting in the Funk Zone, the tour visits three local breweries, with a focus on Santa Barbara’s brewing culture. You’ll also explore historic sites, including the Santa Barbara train station and State Street, as you enjoy tastings.

Price at $140 offers good value, especially with the inclusion of three brewery visits and optional lunch. Reviewers mention the energetic vibe and learning about local brewing traditions. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, social experience with a taste of Santa Barbara’s craft beer scene.

Bottom line: Great for beer aficionados eager to combine history and local brews.

How to Choose the Right Historical Tour in Santa Barbara

Choosing among these options depends on your interests and your preferred style of exploration. If you want a personalized, in-depth look at architecture and history, the Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Walking Tour is perfect. For those intrigued by ghost stories and spooky tales, the Ghost Tour adds a spooky twist to history.

Budget-conscious travelers might opt for the cocktail or food tasting tours, blending history with local flavors—great for a relaxed, social day. Families or groups seeking an active outing will appreciate the Family Walking Adventure, while adventure lovers might enjoy the E-Bike Tour.

Remember to book early, especially in peak season, and consider your fitness level, interests, and whether you prefer private or small-group experiences.

Final Thoughts

Santa Barbara offers a wide array of history-focused tours that cater to different tastes and activity levels. Whether you’re drawn to private guided walks, ghost stories, wine and chocolate tastings, or bike adventures, you’ll find something that makes your trip memorable. The private tours tend to be more personal and flexible, while themed walks and tastings add a flavorful, fun dimension to your visit.

For those seeking a rundown, the Historical and Architectural Private Tour is a top pick. If you’re curious about Santa Barbara’s eerie side, the Ghost Tour is a perfect evening activity. Whatever your style, booking early will ensure you make the most of Santa Barbara’s rich historical landscape.