Free & Cheap Things to Do in Santa Barbara, CA

  • The list below includes 58 free or cheap things to do in or near Santa Barbara, California, including 55 different types of inexpensive activities like Bars, Natural History Museums, Botanical Gardens and Nature & Wildlife Areas.
  • From Cabrillo Bike Path to Arroyo Burro County Beach Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Santa Barbara and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Goleta, Ventura, Montecito and Ojai.
  • The list below includes 58 free or cheap things to do in or near Santa Barbara, California, including 55 different types of inexpensive activities like Bars, Natural History Museums, Botanical Gardens and Nature & Wildlife Areas.
  • From Cabrillo Bike Path to Arroyo Burro County Beach Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Santa Barbara and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Goleta, Ventura, Montecito and Ojai.
Showing 11-20 of 207
0.0 Miles
From the merchant: Guitar, Drums, Bass, Ukulele Lessons
2.8 Miles
94% 850 votes
Botanical Gardens 695 Ashley Road, Santa Barbara, CA MoreLess Info
Lotusland is a botanical garden and plant conservatory dedicated to sustainable gardening and plant appreciation. The Garden is open to the public. Founded over one hundred years ago by Madame Ganna Walaska, Lotusland retains her vision and philosophy of nature education for children and adults.
1.4 Miles
89% 3438 votes
Religious Buildings 2201 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 MoreLess Info
Founded in 1786 by Franciscan priests of the Roman Catholic Church, Mission Santa Barbara remains one of the most ornate and opulent Catholic churches in California. The Mission's campus now includes a museum, gift shop and public mausoleum. Visitors should not wear shorts or tank tops while inside the church.
2.5 Miles
77% 1053 votes
Botanical Gardens 1212 Mission Canyon Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 MoreLess Info
Horticulture enthusiasts and nature lovers adore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, a peaceful haven of manicured landscapes, formal gardens and endangere plant species. The Garden also offers many classes and seminars on topics such as bird identification.
0.2 Miles
91% 47 votes
Farmers Markets Santa Barbara and Cota Streets, Santa Barbara, CA 9310 MoreLess Info
There are plenty of fresh berries, vegetables, and flowers for sale at the Santa Barbara Farmer's Market. Go early to get the best selection.
22.2 Miles
100% 1 votes
Nature & Wildlife Areas Between Refugio State Beach and Gaviota State Park, Santa Barbara, CA MoreLess Info
Arroyo Hondo Preserve is small but packed with wildlife. Walk through to witness a diversity of plant life and beautiful views.
0.2 Miles
100% 3 votes
Visitor Centers 500 E. Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103 MoreLess Info
If you are visiting Santa Barbara, then you might want to make your first stop at the Santa Barbara Conference and Visitors Bureau which provides tourists with information on local attractions, places to stay, things to do and more.
2.2 Miles
67% 12 votes
Nature & Wildlife Areas 1400 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara, CA MoreLess Info
The Andree Clark Bird Refuge is home to a number of birds and other wildlife who claim sanctuary here. You can enjoy a picnic or a stroll through the estate, whilst admiring the views of the lake.
0.3 Miles
97% 3736 votes
Historic Buildings 1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93121 MoreLess Info
Erected in 1850, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a functioning municipal institution and an important historical landmark. The interior is lavishly decorated with paintings and mosaics. Tours are available and should be scheduled in advance.
0.9 Miles
90% 320 votes
Restaurants 5995 Stagecoach Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 MoreLess Info
From its origins as a stagecoach stop in 1886, Cold Spring Tavern, has been operating as a tavern since 1941. Voted the best romantic getaway location in California, you will enjoy the fine food and drink among its rustic charm.
0.4 Miles
87% 347 votes
Art Museum 1130 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 MoreLess Info
Founded in 1941, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art holds a very prestigious collection of many varied items from ancient times through the present. The institute also has a special play gallery for children.
Showing 11-20 of 207
HAVE SUGGESTIONS FOR COOL AND INTERESTING THINGS TO DO IN THE Santa Barbara AREA?
ADD A NEW ATTRACTION TO TRIPBUZZ!