Take a Car-Free Vacation in Santa Barbara, California!
Santa Barbara, California, is a great destination for a car-free vacation. The public transportation in Santa Barbara will get you to all of the top locations inexpensively. Here are some of the most popular attractions and how you can get to them without a car.
One of the most popular attractions in Santa Barbara is Stearns Warf. You can ride the city’s electric shuttle to the Warf for just a quarter! The entrance to the Warf is grace by the famous Dolphin Fountain, and the shuttle drops you off right at the fountain’s base! On the Warf you can enjoy dining and shopping. You can charter a boat to take out on the Pacific Ocean from one of the many rental stations. The Warf is also a great location to take some photographs of the Pacific and the backdrop of the mountains behind the city. Families with children will want to visit the Ty Warner Sea Center, which houses interactive marine exhibits. Just two blocks away from the Warf is the Chas Palm Park, a ten-acre children’s water park. Or take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the sounds of the beautiful Pacific.
Another popular destination in Santa Barbara is the Santa Barbara Mission, which was built in 1786 by the Spanish Franciscans. It is touted as the most beautiful of the Franciscan missions in the state. The city bus will drop you off at the front door of the mission. You may want to consider walking to the mission, however, because the neighborhoods that lead to the Mission offer a unique view of California architecture.
During your visit, be sure to stop by the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, which can be reached via the city bus and the electric shuttle both. The courthouse is much more interesting than it sounds. The architecture and art of the building are stunning. But the highlight of a trip to the courthouse is a visit to the building’s tower. This is one of the highest spots in the city, and offers a stunning view of Santa Barbara, the ocean, and the mountains behind the city.
If you are traveling without children you will want to take a tour of the Santa Ynez Valley wine region. Guided jeep, limo, or van tours are available that will pick you right up from your hotel!
A trip to Santa Barbara is not complete without spending at least one day on the beach. You can get a great seaside experience by renting a bike and riding down the beachside bike paths. Water sport enthusiasts will enjoy renting a Jet Ski or boat and spending some time on the water. And without having to worry about the parking meter, you can really relax and enjoy your time. Be sure to visit the Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens, which overlook the beach. The zoo is home to over 600 animals!
Without having to rent a car, you can save money on gas, parking, and of course the rental itself. Public transportation in Santa Barbara is so inexpensive, it would almost be foolish to spend the money on a rental car. Instead, save that money to go out to eat! Oh, and of course, take the bus to the restaurant!
