Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city in Southern California that’s known for its stunning beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, and Mediterranean climate. In July, the weather in Santa Barbara is at its best, with average temperatures in the mid-70s and plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect time to visit this charming city and explore some of its hidden gems.
Here are seven secret places to visit in Santa Barbara in July 2024:
1. Elings Park
Elings Park is a beautiful oceanfront park with stunning views of the Santa Barbara coastline. The park has a variety of amenities, including a playground, picnic tables, and a walking trail. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery or have a picnic lunch. Elings Park is open every day from sunrise to sunset.
2. The Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden
The Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a hidden gem located in the heart of Santa Barbara. The garden is home to a variety of beautiful plants and flowers, as well as a tranquil pond. It’s a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is open every day from 8am to 5pm.
3. The Santa Barbara Cemetery
The Santa Barbara Cemetery is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the United States. The cemetery is home to a variety of historical and architectural treasures, including the graves of some of Santa Barbara’s most famous residents. It’s a great place to take a walk and learn about the history of Santa Barbara. The Santa Barbara Cemetery is open every day from 8am to 5pm.
4. The Andree Clark Bird Refuge
The Andree Clark Bird Refuge is a 23-acre sanctuary for birds and other wildlife. The refuge is home to a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and ducks. It’s a great place to go for a walk and enjoy the natural beauty of Santa Barbara. The Andree Clark Bird Refuge is open every day from sunrise to sunset.
5. The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a 120-acre garden that’s home to a variety of plants and flowers from around the world. The garden is a great place to learn about different plant species and enjoy the beauty of nature. The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is open every day from 9am to 5pm.
6. The Santa Barbara Courthouse
The Santa Barbara Courthouse is a beautiful Spanish colonial building that’s located in the heart of the city. The courthouse is home to a variety of historical exhibits, as well as a beautiful clock tower. It’s a great place to learn about the history of Santa Barbara and take some stunning photos. The Santa Barbara Courthouse is open every day from 9am to 5pm.
7. The Old Mission Santa Barbara
The Old Mission Santa Barbara is a beautiful Spanish colonial mission that was founded in 1786. The mission is home to a variety of historical exhibits, as well as a beautiful church. It’s a great place to learn about the history of California and the Catholic Church. The Old Mission Santa Barbara is open every day from 9am to 5pm.
These are just a few of the many secret places to visit in Santa Barbara. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience, be sure to check out these hidden gems.
Culture
Santa Barbara has a rich culture that’s influenced by its Spanish, Mexican, and American heritage. The city is home to a variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters. There are also a number of festivals and events that are held throughout the year, such as the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and the Fiesta. Santa Barbara is a great place to learn about the local culture and enjoy a vibrant arts scene.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Santa Barbara are April through October. During these months, the weather is at its best, with average temperatures in the mid-70s and plenty of sunshine. July is a particularly good month to visit because it’s the warmest month of the year and there are fewer crowds than in other months.
Nearby Transportation
Santa Barbara is easily accessible by car, train, and plane. The city is located on Highway 101, which is a major north-south highway. Amtrak also provides train service to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles and San Francisco. The Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is located about 10 miles from the city center and offers flights to a variety of destinations.
Local Food
Santa Barbara is known for its delicious local food. The city is home to a variety of restaurants that serve everything from fresh seafood to mouthwatering barbecue. Be sure to try some of the local favorites, such as the Santa Barbara spot prawn and the Santa Maria tri-tip steak.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels in Santa Barbara. Here are a few of the top-rated hotels:
* The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
* The Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
* The Hotel Californian
* The Santa Barbara Inn
* The Harbor View Inn
Conclusion
Santa Barbara is a beautiful and charming city that’s perfect for a summer getaway. The city has something to offer everyone, from stunning beaches and Spanish colonial architecture to a vibrant arts scene and delicious local food. If you’re looking for a secret place to visit in Santa Barbara, be sure to check out one of the seven places listed above.
