32 Amazing Things For Seniors To Do In Santa Barbara

If you are a senior citizen and are looking for things for seniors to do in Santa Barbara, look no further! This blog post will provide you with a list of 32 amazing activities that you can enjoy in the area. From exploring the local history to enjoying the great outdoors, there is something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today!

The city is full of things to do for seniors, including amazing museums and art galleries, great shopping opportunities, and the famous Santa Barbara beaches. The city is also home to many restaurants serving delicious food with local ingredients.

Key Takeaways

•  There are plenty of trails throughout Santa Barbara, but we especially love the ones surrounding Lompoc because they’re short and sweet—and they take you through areas with lots of flowers and sunshine.
• Go to one of the many museums in town like the Museum of Natural History or the Santa Barbara County History Museum.
• Try some delicious local food at one of the many restaurants in town.

Santa Barbara offers many fun and memorable activities for seniors

From exploring the local history to enjoying the great outdoors, there is something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today!

Here are the top 32 things seniors can do in Santa Barbara

1. Bird Watching at the Andree Clark Bird Refuge

There are 42 acres of open space in the opens in a new windowAndrée Clark Bird Refuge, as well as a 29-acre lake, as well as an artificially modified estuary, which supports wetlands that are brackish (slightly salty). As well as passive recreation options such as birdwatching, hiking, and biking, the park provides opportunities for active recreation as well. Boating and fishing are prohibited, as is feeding wildlife. 

As a result of the park’s lake, migratory birds and local birds can both find a safe haven here. There are a number of activities available at this park, including a multi-modal path (walking, running, and biking), interpretive self-guided tours, and walking trails. It is possible to stretch before or after exercise in the area using the outdoor fitness equipment located at the adjacent Stretch Station with its outdoor fitness equipment.

2. Enjoy Amazing Food at Barbareno Restaurant

If you’re looking for something to do in Santa Barbara that will make your mouth water, then look no further than opens in a new windowBarbareno Restaurant. This restaurant has been serving up some of the most delicious food in Santa Barbara for years. This downtown restaurant serves a small, clever dinner menu inspired by the flavors of the Central Coast six nights a week. If you want to enjoy a nice meal with friends or family members, then Barbareno is the place to go!

3. Hike a Santa Barbara Trail

For moderate hikes, you can visit the Inspiration Point Via Jesuita Trail. From opens in a new windowStevens Park to Inspiration Point, the trail passes through a property about two miles up where there is a nonfunctional water fountain that serves as an excellent landmark for shorter hikes.

For those who are up for a tougher hike, continuing to Inspiration Point is an even steeper challenge. A headlamp is recommended for the portion of the dark trail after you pass the water fountain.

4. Enjoy some Kayaking

If you’re a senior citizen and you’re looking for something fun to do, consider kayaking in Santa Barbara. It is a great place to go kayaking because it’s calm and peaceful, and the views are simply amazing! Here is a opens in a new windowlist of places where you can do kayaking in Santa Barbara.

5. Grocery Shopping at the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market

The opens in a new windowSanta Barbara Certified Farmers Market is a great place to go on a Saturday morning. There are all kinds of vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, meat, and eggs. The market is very clean and organized, and the vendors are very friendly. It’s also a great place to get ideas for what you want to cook that night.

6. Enjoy Amazing Seafood at Brophy Bros.

When you’re a senior, you don’t have to be told twice that seafood is good for you. And if it’s good for you, then it’s even better when it’s prepared well!

That’s why they recommend Brophy Bros, a clam bar & signature Bloody Marys, in a bustling, casual harborside space. The restaurant is named after the brothers who founded Santa Barbara in 1786. The location has been around since 1845 and has been serving delicious seafood dishes ever since.

No matter what time of day or night you visit Brophy Bros., you can expect to find mouth-watering seafood dishes!

7. Watch a Show at a Historic Theater

Santa Barbara is filled with amazing things for seniors to do, but sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. If you’re planning a trip to Santa Barbara, Watch a Show at a Historic Theater. Theaters and performing arts venues offer a unique mix of history and culture along with eclectic and wonderful programs and events.

8. Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

If you’re looking for something to do with your senior loved one, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a great place to start.

The museum offers nature lovers an up-close look at the world’s most fascinating animals and plants. It also features hands-on activities, so there’s something for everyone.

You can go on a tour of the galleries or just explore the exhibits on your own. The museum has several floors of exhibits, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy yourself before heading out again into the sunshine.

9. Wine Tasting at the Santa Barbara Wineries

The opens in a new windowSanta Barbara Wineries are a great place to go if you’re looking for something fun and low-key to do with your senior loved one. You can explore the area’s many different wineries, or even take a guided tour if you’re feeling more adventurous. The views at each winery are beautiful, and there will be plenty of delicious wines to try.

Of course, you don’t have to be an expert on wine to enjoy this activity together—the tasting rooms are usually set up in a casual way where it’s easy for anyone who isn’t well-versed in wine terminology to get the hang of it quickly. Plus, they make it easy by having friendly staff members who will walk you through everything step-by-step.

10. Go Whale Watching

Whale watching is a great activity for seniors, especially if you live near Santa Barbara. You can go on a whale-watching tour by taking an organized tour. If you choose to go on your own, make sure to check out the website for the opens in a new windowNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) before you leave so you know what kind of weather conditions will be optimal for a good sighting.

There are plenty of tour companies that offer whale-watching tours from both land and sea. If you have trouble getting around or standing for extended periods of time, this might not be the best option for you. However, if you don’t mind standing up for an hour or two at a time, then this could be a great way to spend your day outdoors!

11. Bike the Cabrillo Boulevard Biking Trail

The opens in a new windowCabrillo Boulevard Bike Path is one of the most popular bike trails in Santa Barbara. The path connects Leadbetter Beach and Shoreline Park in Santa Barbara to Butterfly Beach—it’s around 9 miles long if you ride all the way there (or 4.5 miles roundtrip.)

12. Enjoy Santa Barbara Harbor

Santa Barbara Harbor is one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. It is also the main port of entry for the Santa Barbara Region.

A walk along the harbor’s piers reveals the beauty that makes this city unique. From all angles, the sea sparkles and reflects off the light-colored buildings that line the shoreline. The smell of salt water and fish waft through the air, while boats bob gently in their berths.

There are many different types of boats that you can take out onto the water. If you want to go fishing, then you can rent a boat that will allow you to do just that. 

In addition, the harbor is also home to an array of restaurants, shops, and other attractions that make it easy for visitors to spend a day or even several days exploring this beautiful area. And if you’re looking for souvenirs from your trip to Santa Barbara, consider buying something from a local shop or restaurant.

This way you’ll support local businesses and help keep jobs in Santa Barbara as well as give yourself something fun to remember your trip by!

13. Visit Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach is named after its famous Monarch Butterfly colony! It’s a beautiful beach, with amazing ocean views and breathtaking sunsets. The sand is soft and powdery and the water is warm and clear. It’s also a great place for families, with lots of space for kids to play and explore.

Butterfly Beach is located on Highway 101, just south of Montecito Village. It’s about a ten-minute drive from Downtown Santa Barbara, so it’s easy to get to from any location in town. You can park in one of the public parking lots along Highway 101 or along Channel Drive.

The best time to visit Butterfly Beach is during the summer months when temperatures are warm and days are sunny with low humidity levels. This can be a great time for families who want to escape from their busy home lives for a few days of fun in the sun!

However, you should take note that this beach does not offer restrooms, life guards, and even picnic tables.

14. Enjoy a great meal at the Finch & Fork

When you think of Santa Barbara, you probably think of the beach and the beautiful weather. But what about the food? If you’re in town for a day or two, it’s easy to miss out on some of the incredible restaurants that are here.

The Finch & Fork is one of those places that you should definitely try while you’re there. The Finch & Fork Santa Barbara is a restaurant that serves American food and is located in the heart of Santa Barbara. The restaurant has been in business for many years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. 

In fact, Finch & Fork Santa Barbara has received rave reviews from its customers because of its great service, delicious food, and friendly staff. They also offer a wide variety of dishes prepared using fresh ingredients that are delivered daily. Their menu includes salads, sandwiches, seafood, and pasta dishes. You can also order drinks such as wine or beer to go along with your meal at this restaurant.

They have a cozy interior with beautiful decor that will make you feel right at home when you visit this place. The ambiance at this restaurant is relaxed enough so you can enjoy the company of your friends when eating here but also intimate enough so it feels like an intimate dinner for two!

If you’re looking for an affordable way to enjoy some great food and drinks then you should definitely visit the Finch & Fork Santa Barbara!

15. Visit Lotusland

Lotusland is a botanical garden and one of the most beautiful places in Santa Barbara. It has more than 3,400 types of plants including 35,000 individual plants from around the world and it’s a great place to visit.

They are located in Montecito, which is about 5 minutes away from downtown Santa Barbara. The drive up the Highway 101 freeway is very beautiful and if you have never been to Lotusland before I would recommend taking that route.

The gardens are very well maintained and they have so many varieties of flowers and plants everywhere. They also have some really nice statues around the property along with some water lilies and ponds.

Visitors can enjoy walking paths throughout the property and capture the beautiful flowers and exotic plants in this place. Unfortunately, if you want to visit the LOtusland, you must make reservations prior to your intended time and day to visit. Since, the place is located in a private, residential neighborhood.

16. Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is one of the most acclaimed museums in the country, and it’s a must-visit for art lovers. The museum has been open since 1941, but it has recently undergone an extensive renovation that added several new galleries and spaces to its collection.

If you’re a fan of Vincent Van Gogh, this exhibit is not to be missed. The paintings are beautifully displayed and it’s easy to see how his work changed over time as he experimented with color and technique. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art also displays photographs by Robert Adams, Trude Fleischman, and many more!

Keep in mind that the museum is open from Tuesday to Monday from 11 am – 5 pm. As for the admission tickets, you can visit their website to see the pricing to avail.

17. Enjoy a Fine Dining Experience at Toma

If you are looking for a place to have a fine dining experience, Toma is the place. It is one of the most popular restaurants in Santa Barbara and has been around for over 70 years. You will find it on the waterfront on West Cabrillo Boulevard, which is one of the main streets in town that runs through downtown.

Toma offers a wide selection of dishes including salads, short ribs, and pasta as well as some great wines. The restaurant also has an elegant decor that makes it feel like you are dining at a five-star hotel or resort. 

Thus, it is a perfect place for both families and couples who want to enjoy an upscale meal without breaking their budget.

18. Visit The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

The garden is home to more than 2,700 species of plants, including flowers, trees, and shrubs. The garden offers plenty of space where you can sit down and relax with your friends and family members. You can also bring your pets with you because there are no restrictions on animals in the vicinity of the garden.

That’s why, if you’re interested in seeing some of the most beautiful plants in the world while relaxing with your family or friends, then this is the place for you!

19. Visit the Santa Barbara Zoo

Visit the Santa Barbara Zoo and see over 500 animals with 146 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects from all over the world. The zoo is located in Santa Barbara, California, and is open year-round.

The Santa Barbara Zoo is dedicated to conserving wildlife and providing enjoyable experiences for people of all ages. It is one of the top zoos in the nation for conservation initiatives, education programs, and community involvement.

Indeed, this a great place for families to go on dates, for school field trips, or just to relax and enjoy a day off from work. There are many things to do at the zoo such as feeding giraffes, getting up close with elephants, and even finding fossils! The zoo also has an aquarium filled with colorful fish that you can watch swim around their habitats.

There are so many fun things to do at the Santa Barbara Zoo whether it be feeding the animals or taking pictures with them!

20. Visit the beautiful Clock Tower

The historic opens in a new windowClock Tower in Santa Barbara is a beautiful landmark that is always worth the visit. It’s been a part of the city since 1929, and it’s a great place to take pictures or just enjoy the view.

The clock tower has been a major attraction for many years because it shows off many aspects of Spanish colonial architecture. It also has some modern elements that make this building even more interesting to visit. The building looks like a typical Spanish mission church, but it also has some unique features that make it stand out from other buildings in this style.

There are also many trees in the sunken garden that provide shade throughout most of the year. These trees help create a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can relax while taking in their surroundings or just enjoy some quiet time away from busy city life in general.

21. Visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse

The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a beautiful building that dates back to 1929. The courthouse is a historic landmark and is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

If you’re visiting Santa Barbara, it’s worth taking a peek inside at the hand-painted murals and the wrought-iron chandelier. The wrought-iron chandelier hanging over the main entrance looks like it came straight out of a castle in France or England hundreds of years ago! It’s made up of thousands of pieces of iron that were all individually bent into shape by hand, then riveted together to create this gorgeous piece of art. 

You’ll also find exhibits about the history of California wine making, as well as rotating art exhibits by local artists. This courthouse also offers a self-guided tour where you can explore and feed your eyes with paintings and masterpieces from famous artists at your own pace. 

22. Enjoy Amazing Burgers at Mesa Burger

In Santa Barbara, there are many places to get a good burger. But none of them compare to the burgers at Mesa Burger.

Mesa Burger is a small restaurant located at 315 Meigs Road Santa Barbara, CA. Mesa Burger has been a favorite in Santa Barbara for many years because of its delicious food and great prices.

You will find that Mesa Burger has all kinds of delicious burgers on its menu, including some that are made with vegan burgers or fish. You can also order one of their sandwiches if you want something that isn’t quite as heavy as a burger but still delicious. There are plenty of salads here too if you want something healthier than greasy burgers!

Mesa Burger also serves up some great appetizers like onion rings, fries, and more! If you’re looking for something sweet then try one of their milkshakes or floats!

If you’re looking for a great meal at an affordable price then check out Mesa Burger in Santa Barbara!

23. Get Lunch at the Santa Barbara Public Market

The Santa Barbara Public Market is a great place to get lunch. There are many different options and the food is all fresh, locally sourced, and delicious.

There are many vendors at the market and they all have something unique to offer. You can get everything from sandwiches to sushi, salad, tacos, sandwiches, pizza, and even burritos!

The best part about the Public Market is that it’s open every day from 4 am to 8 pm. So if you work in downtown Santa Barbara or live nearby, there’s no excuse not to stop by for lunch!

It takes just a few minutes to walk from downtown Santa Barbara to the Public Market but we recommend driving if you’re going in a group so that you can park close by. Parking can be tricky during peak hours but there are usually spots available within walking distance of the market entrance on State St.

24. Visit El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park

Santa Barbara is a beautiful place to visit, and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park is a must-see for any history-lover.

The Presidio is located at the end of State Street in Santa Barbara. The park includes several historic buildings that were once part of the Presidio and Mission, including the Santa Barbara Mission Chapel.

It was built by the Spanish in 1782 to protect Santa Barbara from the American Revolutionary War attacks. It was used as a military post until the mid-10th century when it was abandoned. In 1966, it became a state park.

Today, visitors can see the remains of the old presidio walls, gardens, and cannons that were once used to defend against enemy ships. There are also walking trails throughout the park where visitors can enjoy beautiful views of Santa Barbara’s coast line.

25. Tour Casa del Herrero

The Casa del Herrero, aka the House of the Blacksmith, is a significant historical monument in Santa Barbara. Erected in 1925 by George Fox Steedman, this building is an excellent example of Spanish Revival Architecture prevalent during that era in America.

If you take a tour of the house today, you can not only learn about its interesting past but also see how it has been kept up over the years. There are many different pieces on display inside that date back to different eras, such as furniture and artwork from local craftsmen. This is a place with a lot of history, and it’s evident in everything on display.

26. Enjoy a romantic dinner at The Lark

The Lark is situated on Santa Barbara’s Waterfront in the Funk Zone, which got its name from the Southern Pacific Railroad’s overnight Pullman trains that used to operate between 1910 and 1968. The area is now a vibrant art and entertainment district.

At the Lark, They are proud of their Central Coast roots; sourcing and growing only the best quality seasonal ingredients. They believe that Santa Barbara’s climate, location, and overall vibe provide endless inspiration for their food menu items – each one artfully presented with robust flavors designed to tantalize your taste buds!

27. Have a relaxing walk at Shoreline Park

Shoreline Park, located on a long, thin strip of land along the Pacific coast in the USA, is home to many popular features, including a playground and picnic area. You can also find a beautiful Japanese garden here as well as a whale-watching telescope from which you can spot gray whales during their migration months. This park is perfect for spending time outdoors enjoying the views from one of the benches overlooking the cliffs or taking a stroll down one of its walking paths.

opens in a new windowShoreline Park Beach is the perfect destination whether you are traveling with family or as a couple. A short staircase leads down to the sand below where a beautiful Torii Gate stands in the center of the park. You can enjoy walks on the beach at sunset, look for shells, or have a romantic picnic while surrounded by stunning views and refreshing breezes. For your convenience, there is also a restroom available on-site.

28. Visit Lobero Theatre

The Lobero offers a variety of events for those who enjoy music and art, such as jazz performances, classical concerts, operas, dance recitals, and talks. In addition to State Street Ballet, the Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra, Sings Like Hell, and the Santa Barbara Jazz Society, a number of other organizations perform at the Lobero such as world-renowned musicians and artists.

29. Visit the Santa Barbara Orchid Estate

The opens in a new windowSanta Barbara Orchid Estate (SBOE), which opened its doors in 1957, is one of the most beautiful places in California. It has something to offer both casual admirers and serious orchid enthusiasts. Only 500 feet separate it from the Pacific Ocean and five acres of gorgeous coastal scenery. This gorgeous facility can supply you with fresh flowers if you’re visiting the American Riviera.

30. Walk the Stearns Wharf

Santa Barbara’s Stearns Wharf is located in the United States bay of the same name. It was finished in 1872 and, at the time, it was the longest deep-water wharf between San Pedro and San Francisco. The local lumberjack who built it – John P. Stearns – gave his name to this wharf that served California’s South Coast passenger and cargo transportation needs for over 25 years.

31. Santa Ynez valley

The opens in a new windowSanta Ynez Valley is the perfect place to learn about local history and enjoy nature. With its rich Native American heritage and beautiful scenery, the valley has something for everyone. There are many hiking trails, so it’s a great place to get away from it all and enjoy the great outdoors.

32. Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum provides an opportunity to learn about the Santa Barbara Channel and its 13,000 years of human interaction in a stunning location overlooking Santa Barbara Harbor.

Some of the exhibits include a handmade Chumash plank canoe, the Point Conception Lighthouse lens, a working periscope, interactive sport fishing, and tattoo exhibits, and artifacts that tell stories about nearby shipwrecks. Other highlights are the development of surfing and hardhat diving, commercial fisheries, and how a local oil spill in the 1960s ignited the environmental movement.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for amazing views, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, Santa Barbara has something for everyone. From visiting the Lobero Theatre and Shoreline Park to exploring the Santa Ynez Valley and walking Stearns Wharf, there are endless opportunities for fun in this beautiful California city. So why wait? Set out on your next adventure and explore all that Santa Barbara has to offer!

We hope you enjoyed our list of 32 amazing Santa barbara attractions! If you’re interested in learning more about what Santa Barbara has to offer for seniors, give us a call or schedule a free consultation today.