Dining And Destinations

This stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture, built in 1929 is a National Historic Landmark. Visit the famous mural room, sunken gardens, and take in a panoramic view from the top of the open-air clock tower. 1100 Anacapa Street, 805.568.2220, santabarbaracourthouse.org

Founded in 1786, this “Queen of the Missions” occupies a commanding position atop 12 acres overlooking the Pacific and the city. Take a tour and then enjoy a picnic at the adjacent rose gardens. 2201 Laguna Street, 805.682.4713, santabarbaramission.org

Located in downtown Santa Barbara, this main street features shopping, outdoor paseos and plazas, fine dining, bars, historic sites, cultural venues, and entertainment. Parking is plentiful and it is a straight shot down to the beach. Bordered by Chapala and Anacapa streets. downtownsb.org

Built in 1872 for passenger and freight shipping along the south coast, the wooden pier is home to a variety of restaurants, shops and the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center. State Street and Cabrillo Bloulevard, stearnswharf.org

A “funky” mix of historical marine structures, industrial lots, and old houses where artists, cafes, wineries, microbreweries, museums and other independent businesses converge to create a unique district. Located between State St. and Garden St., and Montecito St. to Cabrillo Blvd. funkzone.net

Enjoy some of the best views of the waterfront, city and mountains and try the fresh catch of the day at one of the resident restaurants. Check out the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum or take a stroll along the breakwater. 113 Harbor Way, 805.962.8404, santabarbaraca.gov

Regarded as one of southern California’s finest art museums, featuring nationally recognized collections and special exhibitions, as well as a permanent collection that includes more than 27,000 works of art. Don’t miss the winter exhibition, Looking In, Looking Out: Latin American Photography, featuring the work of Raúl Corrales, Alberto Korda and many other important artists and photographers. October 18, 2015 – February 14, 2016. 1130 State Street, 805.963.4364, sbma.net

Located on 30 acres of lush botanic gardens, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the zoo is home to 146 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects. More than 500 animals are exhibited in open, naturalistic habitats. 500 Ninos Drive, 805.962.5339, sbzoo.org

Founded in 1916 and housed in beautiful Spanish Revival-style buildings, along the oak-studded Mission Creek - the museum has over 3.5 million artifacts and specimens in the fields of anthropology, archaeology, vertebrate and invertebrate biology, geology and paleontology. 2559 Puesta del Sol, sbnature.org

Located in the heart of historic downtown, in the El Pueblo Viejo District, the collection includes relics from Chumash, Spanish, Mexican, Yankee and Chinese cultures, as well as artifacts and textiles that date back to the 15th century. 136 East De la Guerra Street, 805.966.1601, santabarbaramuseum.com