Old Spanish Days Fiesta:

El Mercado de la Guerra—Stroll through a colorful Mexican market (across from City Hall) to simple Spanish and Mexican foods, shop for crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy live entertainment all day and into the early evening. Located in De La Guerra Plaza, on the first block of East De la Guerra Street.

Casa Cantina— Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation presents the Casa Cantina in the courtyard of the historic Casa de la Guerra. Part of the annual Old Spanish Days Fiesta celebration, locals and visitors alike are invited to relax, sip a cold drink, and celebrate at the home of Fiesta! Held at Casa de la Guerra, 15 East De la Guerra Street. General Admission fee required.

Downtown Santa Barbara:

Santa Barbara Courthouse and Sunken Gardens—For a firsthand look at one of the country’s most beautiful public buildings, look no further than the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Designed in the Spanish-Colonial style and completed in 1929, the still-functioning Courthouse, along with its verdant, flower-filled sunken gardens and grounds, is an iconic Santa Barbara landmark. The Courthouse and its gardens are located at 1100 Anacapa St.

The “Funk Zone”— Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone has become a favorite in recent years. Over the past few decades, this district, which spans the area between the ocean and Highway 101 and is adjacent to the Amtrak station, has enjoyed an upswell of boutique wine tasting rooms, cafes, galleries, and shops that cater to Santa Barbara’s contemporary side. You can reach the Funk Zone by travelling along State Street toward the ocean.

Old Kings Road—If shopping and wine tasting isn’t really your style, Old Kings Road is an excellent place to relax and recharge. Cocktails and draft beer are offered here in a narrow, wood-paneled space with British-style details. They even have a vintage video game table! Old Kings Road is located at 532 1/2 State St.