Identified as one of the main attractions of Santa Barbara, State Street has long reigned as the one of the most popular, vibrant destinations in the area. With tons of shops, restaurants, architecture and heritage, State Street is surely a stop you don’t want to miss on your next Santa Barbara vacation.
The significance of State Street dates all the way back to its establishment, where the road served as a connecting path from the Presidio of Santa Barbara to the town’s mission. Throughout the following hundreds of years the road was continually developed and modernized, especially as a bustling commercial thoroughfare. In the 20th century State Street majorly flourished following the widening of the road and the expansion of businesses. Today it is a well-preserved testament to our area’s Spanish heritage and architecture, as well as a popular shopping, dining, and cultural destination.
WHERE TO EAT
When it comes to dining, State Street covers all the bases. From laid-back eateries to formal restaurants, whatever you are in the mood for can be found on the famous street. Here are just some of our favorites.
Arigato Sushi
Arigato Sushi is known for serving high quality, delicious Japanese food on upper State Street. The fresh menu, excellent service, and cozy atmosphere will make for a great experience!
Photo From Instagram via @benchmarkeatery
Benchmark Eatery
Located on the corner of State and Anapamu, you can find this casual American dining spot on mid-State Street. Its covered outdoor patio and variety of beers on tap make this a perfect spot to socialize and grab a bite to eat.
Photo From Instagram via @finneyscrafthouse
Finney’s Crafthouse
Featuring craft cocktails, unique eats, and local beer on tap, Finney’s is a lower State local favorite. With a wide-range of menu options and the drinks to match, this American tavern offers a fun, laid-back dining experience.
Photo From Instagram via @holdrens_sb
Holdren’s Steaks & Seafood
For a classic steakhouse experience, Holdren’s is the place to be. This American eatery features as many seafood options as it does steak, and boasts a full bar to accompany your meal.
Photo From Instagram via @loquitasb
Loquita
Loquita is a contemporary Spanish tapas restaurant complete with craft cocktails, decadent dishes, and a charming patio on lower State Street. The inviting ambiance coupled with the innovative cuisine promise a delightful meal.
Photo From Instagram via @downtownsantabarbara
Pascucci
This laid-back spot features a vast Italian menu that is sourced from local meats, produce, and seafood. From pastas to pizzas, the whole family can find something to enjoy at Pascucci. You can even bring your dog to the open air patio.
WHERE TO DRINK
State Street offers an abundance of vibrant and inviting spots to enjoy a drink. Each have unique features and atmospheres, but all make for a great time! Here are just a handful.
Photo From Instagram via @thecruisery
The Cruisery
This brewery, restaurant, and hangout spot is a State Street staple. From smooth beers to a vast and unique cocktail menu to even “doggie flights,” The Cruisery is the place for a laid-back social spot.
Photo From Instagram via @thegoodlionbar
The Good Lion
The Good Lion, a trendy cocktail bar, consistently refreshes and innovates its menu, placing significant emphasis on using seasonal produce from local farms. While a few favorites remain constant, their ever-changing drink list guarantees an enjoyable night out.
Photo From Instagram via @samasamakitchen
Sama Sama Kitchen
This bar and restaurant creates cocktails with a captivating mix of farm-fresh produce and Indonesian ingredients. Appealing to both the adventurous and the classics, Sama Sama has both seasonal drinks and signature mainstays.
Photo From Instagram via @shakermillsb
Shaker Mill
Shaker Mill, a Havana-inspired cocktail bar located on lower State Street, offers a delightful selection of fun and one-of-a-kind drinks. From refreshing blended frozen cocktails to a tantalizing espresso martini shot, this bar guarantees a fun experience.
Photo From Instagram via @augiessb
Augie’s
Augie’s is a gourmet tequila connoisseur’s dream. With over 700 different liquor labels and world-class mixologists, this bar and restaurant serves up a plethora of creative cocktails alongside its modern Mexican cuisine.
Photo From Instagram via @hotelcalifornian
Djinn
Located at the Hotel Californian in the famous Funk Zone is Djinn, a Moroccan-style lobby bar that features Instagrammable cocktails. Guests can expect top-notch, polished drinks that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
WHAT TO DO
State Street boasts an abundance of restaurants and shops spread along its 10-block stretch. In addition, it is home to numerous establishments offering delightful recreational activities- making it a must-visit destination for your vacation.
Photo From Instagram via @granadasb
The Granada Theatre
The Granada Theatre has served as a local landmark for almost a century and is a testament to the central role that live performing arts plays in Santa Barbara’s origin. Here you can marvel at world-class artistic performances, feature films, and, of course, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
Paseo Nuevo Mall
Paseo Nuevo Mall is located right on State Street and is a vibrant shopping and entertainment destination nestled in the heart of downtown. It offers a diverse array of boutiques, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a captivating hub for both locals and visitors.
Photo From Instagram via @sbmuseart
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Known as one of the leading art museums on the West Coast, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art is comprised of 25,000 works of art, ranging from more than 5,000 years of artistry and contains classical antiquities rivaled only by the Getty Museum. In fact, no West Coast Museum owns more Monet paintings. Spend your day or afternoon here for a delightful, insightful experience.
Stearns Wharf
Located at the lowest tip of State Street, the Stearns Wharf is a historic pier originally built in 1872. Drive onto the pier in your own car, dine at one of the six restaurants, browse the locally owned shops, or even step inside the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center to learn about the creatures that reside just below.
WHERE TO STAY
Staying within walking distance to State Street allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture, explore its diverse dining and shopping options, and experience the charm of this coastal paradise without the need for transportation. The following are our properties that are within a few minutes walk to the best State Street has to offer.
Downtown Life
2 bed / 2.5 bath
1 minute walk to mid State
Santa Barbara City Escape
1 bed / 1.5 bath
1 minute walk to mid State
Victorian Charm
3 bed / 2 bath
1 minute walk to mid State
Heart of Downtown
3 bed / 2.5 bath
1 minute walk to mid State
Downtown European Suite
1 bed / 1 bath
1 minute walk to mid State
Classic Cottage Downtown
3 bed / 2 bath
10 minute walk to mid State
Villa Portofino
3 bed / 2.5 bath
10 minute walk to lower State
