8 Ways to Enjoy the Charms and Delights of Santa Barbara
Lotusland
The former estate and gardens of eccentric international opera singer, Madame Ganna Walska, Lotusland offers one of the most unique and exotic botanical gardens in the world. From its Japanese garden to its collection of dinosaur-era cycads, Lotusland has an immensely diverse collection of plants, trees and flowers.
Stroll through fruit orchards and cactus gardens, observe monarch butterflies in the insectary and revel at the natural theater full of garden gnomes. It’s the perfect place to spark an interest in botany or simply enjoy the wondrous variety of plant life that Madame Walska so carefully curated (and sold her expensive jewelry collection for).
Urban Wine Trail
Forget Napa, go wine tasting in Santa Barbara along the Urban Wine Trail. 29 different wineries can be found in the downtown area, along State Street and near the beach. Enjoy tasting flights with delicious food pairings amid dog-friendly outdoor patios. Learn about each vineyard’s growing process and unique take on wine-making.
Many of the wineries also provide live music or vinyl selections to further immerse you in the experience of their facilities. If you have a lot of time (or money) on your hands, consider splurging on the membership card, giving you access to free tastings at all the wineries, in addition to special discounts and events throughout the year.
From historical intrigue to outdoor adventure to culinary delights, there are a myriad of charming things to do in Charleston SC.
Stearns Wharf
One of Santa Barbara’s top tourist attractions, you can easily spend a whole day or two exploring all Stearns Wharf has to offer. Eat your weight in seafood at one of the onsite restaurants that boast some of the best views of the ocean. Enjoy the scenery with a private cruise or get up close and personal with marine life at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center.
Shop at one of the clothing and souvenir shops or go fishing off the pier. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, don’t leave without getting your palm read at Madame Rosinka’s, Santa Barbara’s local spiritual adviser.
