The ORIGINAL Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour

Experience Santa Barbara through its flavors, sights, and stories with the “Original Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour.” This 3 to 4-hour journey, priced at $175 per person, takes you past some of the city’s most beloved landmarks, while sampling diverse cuisines and regional wines. Led by enthusiastic local guides, it promises an engaging blend of history, architecture, and culinary delights, making it an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to see Santa Barbara from a fresh perspective.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: First, the in-depth knowledge shared by guides like Kirk and Nancy, who bring Santa Barbara’s stories to life with humor and passion. Second, the generous variety of tastings—ranging from wine to authentic international dishes—that make this tour feel like a gastronomic adventure. The only consideration is that it’s a walking tour with some physical activity involved, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility.

This tour is ideal for food lovers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys exploring on foot without feeling rushed. If you’re visiting Santa Barbara and want to combine sightseeing with tasting some of its best eats and drinks, this experience will suit you well.

Key Points

Rich Local History: Guides share engaging stories about Santa Barbara’s landmarks and background.
Diverse Food & Drink: Tastes include wine, regional cuisine, and international dishes like Mexican and Asian specialties.
Beautiful Landmarks: Stops include the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, historic theaters, and charming courtyards.
Well-Organized: The tour flows smoothly, with about 5-6 stops, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s culture.
Inclusive & Flexible: They cater to allergies, moderate physical fitness, and even accommodate families with children.
Authentic Experience: The tour emphasizes local, authentic spots rather than tourist traps, ensuring a genuine taste of Santa Barbara.

A Deep Dive into the Santa Barbara Food & Drink Walking Tour

Walking through Santa Barbara with this tour is like flipping through a lively storybook filled with vibrant characters, historic buildings, and delicious smells. The experience is designed to give you a well-rounded slice of the city—a perfect blend of local flavor, stunning architecture, and history. Priced at $175 per person, it offers a lot of value, especially considering the number of tastings and sights packed into a 3 to 4-hour window.

Starting Point: The El Paseo Building and Wine Tasting

The tour kicks off near the El Paseo Building, a place that acts less like a typical mall and more like a neighborhood hub filled with local businesses, tasting rooms, and history dating back to the 1920s. We loved the way this spot sets a relaxed tone for the tour—you’re immediately immersed in Santa Barbara’s community vibe.

Here, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting of 3-4 wines in a local tasting room, accompanied by a grazing box shared only with your group. It’s a great way to start, giving you a taste of the region’s renowned wines amid a charming setting. One reviewer mentioned, “The wine tasting was a highlight, and our guide, Kirk, made it so fun with his stories,” which highlights how much the guides enhance the experience.

Historic Landmarks & Architectural Gems

Next, the tour weaves through iconic sites like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, considered one of the most beautiful civic buildings in the US. While you might not always get inside—depending on timing—there’s plenty to admire from the outside. Guests consistently praise the courthouse’s stunning architecture; one reviewer notes, “The courthouse was truly beautiful and a perfect photo stop.”

Other stops include the Arlington Theatre and the Granada Theatre, both historic venues with long-standing cultural importance. While you can’t enter these theaters during the tour, passing by their facades allows for some great photo ops and storytelling about Santa Barbara’s entertainment history. One caller said, “Just walking past and hearing the stories made it worthwhile,” emphasizing how the guides bring these landmarks to life.

Exploring Downtown’s Charm: La Arcada Courtyard & Presidio

Meandering through downtown, you’ll visit La Arcada Courtyard—a whimsical spot with statues, turtles in a pond, and charming walkways. It’s often a favorite for photos and a moment to appreciate Santa Barbara’s unique neighborhood feel. When conditions allow, the guide might stop at El Presidio, adding a dash of early California history to your walk.

Food & Drink Stops: International Flavors & Local Delights

The heart of this tour lies in its food offerings. From the first wine tasting, you’ll move on to explore diverse cuisines—Mexican, Asian, Italian, and even Turkish sweets. Reviewers frequently note that they would not have found these places on their own, making it a true discovery experience. One said, “The Asian restaurant from Diners, Drive-ins and Dives was delicious, and the Italian pasta was a highlight.”

Each tasting is thoughtfully selected, often including a grazing box, specialty dishes, or sweets. The tour’s flexibility means they accommodate allergies and preferences where possible. The guide’s storytelling about each dish adds depth, making the tasting more than just eating—it’s about appreciating local flavors and culinary traditions.

Wine & Beverages: More than Just Tasting

Along With wine, the tour sometimes includes extra alcohol tastings, like craft beers or specialty wines, which many guests find adds a relaxing touch. Water and non-alcoholic drinks keep everyone hydrated during the walk, which is appreciated given the amount of food and drink involved.

Landmarks & Hidden Gems

Beyond the main sights, the tour explores some of Santa Barbara’s lesser-known gems like secret courtyards, turtles, and statues. Reviewers frequently mention the lively stories from their guides, which make the landmarks come alive. One guest noted, “Kirk’s stories made history fun and engaging, not just dry facts,” highlighting how the guides’ personalities elevate the experience.

Walking & Group Size

The tour is designed for a moderate physical level, with walking involved across downtown streets and courtyards. Group sizes are small—up to 6 travelers—which fosters a cozy, personalized atmosphere. This small-group setting allows guides to tailor the experience and answer all questions comfortably.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Review after review highlights guides like Kirk and Nancy for their engaging storytelling and local expertise. They weave history, architecture, and anecdotes seamlessly into the tour, creating an experience that feels both educational and entertaining.

Variety & Authenticity: The mix of food, wine, and landmarks ensures no two stops feel the same. Guests consistently mention the quality of tastings and the discovery of hidden local gems—places they might never find on their own.

Balanced Pace: The 3.5 to 4-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to cover a lot, but not so lengthy that fatigue sets in. Walks are leisurely, focusing on sights and stories rather than rushing through.

Value for Money: For $175, you get a comprehensive experience including multiple tastings, wine, guided commentary, and skipping long lines at popular spots. Many reviewers feel this is a great deal considering the quality and quantity of experiences.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While most guests rave about the tour, a few note that it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility. Some stops may involve stairs or walking on uneven surfaces. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off—so plan your transport accordingly. Weather can influence the experience too; it’s best on clear days, but the tour offers options to reschedule or get a full refund if canceled due to rain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a foodie eager to explore Santa Barbara’s culinary scene, this tour is perfect. History lovers will appreciate the stories behind landmarks like the courthouse and historic theaters. It’s also well-suited for visitors who prefer small groups, personalized attention, and a relaxed pace. Families with kids who enjoy walking and tasting may find it fun, but younger children should be prepared for some walking and noise levels.

Final Thoughts

This walking tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Santa Barbara’s lively downtown, combining history, architecture, and a variety of delicious food and drink. The guides’ passion and local knowledge shine through, making each stop engaging and memorable. The blend of cultural sights and culinary surprises makes this experience stand out among Santa Barbara’s tour options.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local looking to rediscover your city, this tour provides a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, tasting your way through Santa Barbara while learning its stories. It’s best for those with an appetite for food, a curiosity about history, and a love for walking in a friendly, small-group environment.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, covering 5 to 6 stops around downtown Santa Barbara.

What is included in the price?
You’ll enjoy wine tastings, food at several eateries, non-alcoholic drinks, and a knowledgeable local guide. Long lines are mostly skipped.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, kids can enjoy the experience, especially if they like tasting and exploring. Just keep in mind the walking involved and manage noise levels.

What if I have food allergies or special diets?
The tour can accommodate many allergies and preferences if you notify in advance, though cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed.

Are there any stops that require entry?
Most landmarks are viewed from the outside, but the Santa Barbara County Courthouse might be visited inside if time permits.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds. Rain or weather cancellations also qualify for a refund or reschedule.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Bring a water bottle, sun protection, and an appetite—there’s plenty of food to satisfy you through dinner.

This Santa Barbara walking food tour makes for a lively, flavorful, and story-rich day. Perfect for those seeking a genuine, relaxed exploration of the city’s culinary and cultural heritage. Don’t forget to come hungry—you’ll want to savor every bite and sip, all while discovering the stories behind Santa Barbara’s most iconic spots.