Santa Barbara is a city that begs to be explored on foot. Its compact layout, beautiful Spanish Revival architecture, lively downtown, and scenic waterfront make it perfect for walking tours. Whether you’re interested in sampling local cuisine, sipping wines at boutique tasting rooms, or learning about the city’s intriguing history, Santa Barbara offers a variety of engaging options. We’re especially fond of the Downtown Santa Barbara Food & Drink Tour, which combines delicious bites, local wines, and a lively atmosphere—all within a manageable 3 to 4 hours.
For travelers eager to get a deeper understanding of Santa Barbara’s past and architecture, the Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Walking Tour offers a personalized experience that highlights landmark sites and hidden stories. Foodies and wine lovers may prefer the Wine & Chocolate Walking Tour, which pairs tastings with regional history, or the Sparkling Wine Tour for bubbly enthusiasts. Each tour provides a different lens into Santa Barbara’s charm, and choosing depends on your interests, time, and budget.
1. The ORIGINAL Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour
At number 1, this food and drink tour stands out for its lively atmosphere and delicious sampling experience. For around $175, you walk through Santa Barbara’s bustling downtown for 3 to 4 hours, visiting 5 to 6 eateries, including local wine tasting rooms. The tour’s highlight is the visit to El Paseo Building, a historic locale from the 1920s, which offers wine tastings of 3-4 wines plus a grazing box shared with your group. You also stroll past the Arlington Theatre and other landmarks, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Guided by a knowledgeable host, you’ll learn about Santa Barbara’s history, architecture, and local culture while sampling regional delicacies. Reviews praise the tour for its tasty treats and engaging storytelling, with some noting that it can be quite filling by the end. This tour is perfect for first-timers and food lovers who enjoy a social, relaxed pace with plenty of local flavor. Bottom line: a fun, comprehensive way to taste Santa Barbara with a side of history.
2. Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list offers a private, fully customizable experience tailored to your interests, making it ideal for those who want to dig into Santa Barbara’s architectural gems and stories. For about $99 per person, this 2 to 3-hour tour includes visits to El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, and the Rochin Adobe. Your guide, Sully, shares detailed insights about the city’s founding, adobe construction, and local stories, making it both educational and engaging.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You can focus on history, architecture, or lesser-known sites, with Sully’s passionate commentary transforming ordinary sights into meaningful stories. Many reviews highlight Sully’s depth of knowledge and personable approach. It’s perfect for history buffs or anyone wanting a tailored, in-depth exploration of Santa Barbara. Bottom line: a personalized tour that reveals the city’s past through its most notable landmarks.
3. Wine & Chocolate Walking Tour of Downtown Santa Barbara
Number 3 offers an indulgent way to explore Santa Barbara’s culinary side. For $135, this wine and chocolate tour lasts about 3.5 hours and includes visits to boutique tasting rooms, artisanal chocolates, and historic streets like La Arcada. It begins with a guided walk through the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Casa de la Guerra, then continues into the lively downtown core.
Throughout the tour, you’ll sample two wines and two chocolates, all included, as your guide shares stories about the region’s wine industry and local history. Reviewers love the balance of tasting and sightseeing, noting the guide Melissa’s friendly professionalism. This tour is especially well suited for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, tasty experience that combines history with regional flavors. Bottom line: a perfect choice for those who want to combine culinary delights with cultural insights.
4. Private Walking Tour of El Pueblo Viejo in Santa Barbara
Number 4 features an intimate, private introduction to Santa Barbara’s oldest neighborhood. For $79 per person, in just 1 to 2 hours, your guide leads you through the historic El Pueblo Viejo district. This tour emphasizes stories of the city’s founding, with stops at the Presidio, Rochin Adobe, and local museums, offering a vivid look at Santa Barbara’s early days.
The highlight is the storytelling about the Spanish and Mexican influence on local architecture and history. Many reviews praise the guide’s depth of knowledge and engaging style, making this ideal for travelers short on time but eager to understand Santa Barbara’s roots. It’s best for history enthusiasts or visitors seeking a personalized, relaxed walk. Bottom line: a quick, enriching experience that captures the essence of Santa Barbara’s historic core.
5. Santa Barbara Downtown Cocktails and History Walking Tour
Number 5 mixes history with a sip of local flavor. For $85, this about 3-hour cocktail and history tour guides you through Santa Barbara’s downtown, stopping at three historic bars for drinks and small bites. Your guide shares stories about the city’s architecture and cultural scene while you enjoy curated cocktails at each stop.
The small group size (maximum 12) ensures an intimate experience, with reviews emphasizing Melissa’s personable approach and the well-chosen venues. It’s a fun way to combine drinking culture with city history—perfect for night owls or couples looking for a relaxed, social outing. Bottom line: a lively, flavorful way to explore Santa Barbara’s past and present.
6. Santa Barbara: Craft Beer Walking Tour
Sanity-seekers and beer lovers will enjoy this craft beer tour at number 6. For $125, you visit three top breweries downtown, learning about each brewery’s history, brewing process, and local influence. The 3-hour walk explores the Funk Zone and State Street, making it perfect for those who want a lively, casual outing with tastings included.
This tour is highly rated for its cultural insights and the variety of breweries visited. It’s best suited for those who appreciate craft beer and want a laid-back, social experience. Because it’s a small-group tour, you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions and interact. Bottom line: a fun, educational drink-focused outing.
7. Santa Barbara: 3-Hour Cocktail and History Walking Tour
Number 7 offers a similar vibe to #5 but focuses more on local craft cocktail bars. Priced at $85 for about 3 hours, you’ll visit three spots, enjoying drinks and learning about Santa Barbara’s architecture and cultural scene. Your guide highlights must-see spots in downtown, making it a well-rounded experience for those interested in both drinks and city lore.
Guests praise the intimate setting and knowledgeable guide, Melissa, making it a favorite for small groups. It’s excellent for travelers seeking a relaxed, engaging way to learn about Santa Barbara’s social scene. Bottom line: a highly recommended, cocktail-centric walk for those who want a taste of local culture.
8. Santa Barbara: Wine, Chocolate and History Walking Tour
Number 8 combines history, wine, and chocolates in a 3.5-hour tour. For $135, you visit boutique tasting rooms, sampling two regional wines, and indulge in artisanal chocolates. Your friendly guide shares stories about Santa Barbara’s winemaking history and local sights like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.
The tour appeals to those with a sweet tooth and an interest in regional wine culture. Reviews mention excellent tastings and engaging guides, making this ideal for a relaxed, flavorful exploration. It’s a great pick for couples or small groups wanting an indulgent yet educational experience. Bottom line: a rich mix of history and treats that suits those with a palate for both.
9. Santa Barbara: Sparkling Wine Walking Tour
For sparkling wine fans, this specialty tour is a delightful 3-hour experience. Priced at $135, it includes tastings at two boutique tasting rooms that feature Santa Barbara’s best bubbly. Combined with 2 chocolate tastings, you’ll learn about the region’s sparkling wine industry and architecture.
Many reviews highlight the fun, bubbly atmosphere and expert commentary. It’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying the finer things. It’s best suited for those who want to focus on sparkling wines and enjoy a leisurely walk through downtown and the Funk Zone. Bottom line: an upbeat, effervescent experience for connoisseurs or celebrants.
10. Food Tasting Experience and Guided Walking Tour in Santa Barbara
Number 10 is a 2-hour food-focused tour emphasizing local cuisine and architecture. For $99, you visit several small businesses, including a French pastry shop, while learning about the city’s history and navigating the local food scene.
Guided by a storyteller passionate about “La Dolce Vita,” you’ll explore sights like the Arlington Theatre and enjoy tastings that include croissants and other treats. Reviews highlight the guide’s warmth and knowledge, making it a solid pick for food lovers. Bottom line: a tasty, cultural introduction to Santa Barbara’s culinary scene.
11. Santa Barbara Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
Number 11 offers a fun, interactive twist on exploring Santa Barbara. For just $24.50, this scavenger hunt uses your smartphone to follow clues and solve puzzles across the city, covering attractions and hidden spots. It’s perfect for families or groups seeking a relaxed, playful activity.
While not as in-depth historically, reviews note it’s an easy, enjoyable way to see the city and learn fun facts. It’s most suitable for those with kids or anyone who prefers games over traditional tours. Bottom line: a playful, flexible way to explore Santa Barbara at your own pace.
12. Santa Barbara: Comedian led Food and Walking Tour
Number 12 spices up the usual with comedy. For 2.5 hours at $135, a comedian leads you through Santa Barbara’s arts district, combining tasty snacks, drinks, and comedy. You visit landmarks like the Granada Theatre and Santa Barbara County Courthouse, all while enjoying humor and great photo ops.
The mix of entertainment and food makes this tour stand out for those seeking laughs along with sightseeing. Reviewers love the lively atmosphere and engaging guide. It’s ideal for groups who want a relaxed, fun, and memorable way to see the city. Bottom line: a humorous, lively tour that combines culture, comedy, and cuisine.
$135 per person
13. Historic Santa Barbara Family Walking Adventure
Finally, the family-friendly walking tour blends history, nature, and city sights. For around $252, this 3-hour tour includes stops at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Alice Keck Park Gardens, and the Santa Barbara Historical Museum. It’s a comprehensive walk suitable for children and adults alike.
The tour’s highlight is its engaging storytelling and variety, from panoramic views to botanical gardens. Reviews are limited but positive, emphasizing a well-rounded experience for families looking to mix fun and education. Bottom line: a versatile, family-oriented tour packed with diverse attractions and stories.
$252.10 per person
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Santa Barbara
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, interests, and available time. For instance, if food and wine are your passions, the Downtown Santa Barbara Food & Drink Tour offers a flavorful introduction, while the Wine & Chocolate Tour combines indulgence with sightseeing. For those eager to learn about architecture and history, the Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Tour provides personalization and depth.
If your schedule is limited, the El Pueblo Viejo private walk is brief but packed with stories. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the Scavenger Hunt, which offers fun at a low cost. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Santa Barbara’s walking tours cover a broad spectrum—from food, wine, and cocktails to architecture, history, and even family adventures. For a social, full-flavored experience, the Downtown Santa Barbara Food & Drink Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a personalized deep dive, the Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Tour will suit you perfectly. For fun, quirky explorations, the Scavenger Hunt offers a lighthearted way to see the city.
Whatever your interests, Santa Barbara’s walkable layout and charming ambiance make it ideal for exploring on foot. To get the most out of your trip, consider booking your preferred tour early, especially during busy seasons. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour that turns your visit into a memorable adventure.