There are dozens of destinations within Santa Barbara that earn a must-see status for visitors to the city. First and foremost, you can't go to Santa Barbara without checking out the gorgeous and historically significant Mission Santa Barbara. Known as the so-called "Queen of the Missions," this incredible structure was built in 1786 and has been used by Franciscan Friars ever since. Though earthquakes have required the structures to be rebuilt on several occasions, the Mission's location among the Santa Ynez peaks remains, and is a breathtaking sight for all visitors. Other historical buildings located within Santa Barbara include the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and the Presidio, a Spanish military installation built in 1782. If you decide to visit during the summer, try to come during the Summer Solstice Parade, which draws perhaps the largest groups of visitors to Santa Barbara every year. The Parade takes place the first weekend after the summer solstice (the longest day of the year!).

Santa Barbara is a vibrant, artistic community, and it shows. With over 8 higher learning institutions, there is always a youthful element to Santa Barbara, and students can often be found browsing in the Santa Barbara Museum of Art of the University Art Museum on the UC Santa Barbara campus. You should also make sure to check out the Arlington Theater, which has regular performances, and the Granada Theater. The Santa Barbara Bowl, another concert space, often has great outdoor concerts.