Discover the Stories Behind California’s American Riviera
Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara’s historic El Pueblo Viejo District, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum invites visitors to explore the people, cultures, and events that shaped one of California’s most beautiful coastal communities. Just two blocks from State Street, the museum serves as an ideal starting point for anyone wanting to understand the city’s rich heritage before exploring its historic landmarks, gardens, and neighborhoods. From the earliest Chumash settlements to the Spanish Colonial era and the modern Santa Barbara of today, every gallery reveals another chapter of the city’s remarkable story.
Founded in 1932, the museum has become one of Santa Barbara’s premier cultural institutions and is dedicated to preserving the region’s history through exhibitions, education, scholarship, and extensive archival collections. The campus itself is part of the experience, featuring beautifully preserved Spanish Colonial architecture and two historic adobes—the Casa Covarrubias (1817) and the Historic Adobe (1836)—that offer a rare glimpse into early California life.
Inside, visitors will discover The Story of Santa Barbara, the museum’s signature permanent exhibition that traces the area’s development from the Chumash people through the Spanish, Mexican, and American periods. Throughout the year, rotating exhibitions explore local traditions, architecture, ranching, maritime history, photography, fine art, and significant moments that have helped shape Santa Barbara into the community it is today. Because exhibits change regularly, every visit offers something new to discover.
One of the museum’s greatest treasures is its remarkable collection of regional artifacts and historical resources. Visitors can view paintings, decorative arts, furniture, costumes, saddles, manuscripts, maps, and thousands of historical objects spanning more than 500 years of regional history. Researchers and history enthusiasts will also appreciate the renowned Gledhill Research Library, home to books, archival documents, newspapers, architectural records, and an extraordinary photographic collection that now includes approximately one million historic Santa Barbara News-Press photographs, documenting over 150 years of local life.
The museum is much more than a collection of exhibits—it’s a vibrant gathering place for the community. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy exhibition openings, lectures by local historians and authors, educational workshops, guided tours, school programs, family activities, and seasonal celebrations. Popular events such as First Thursday evening programs, gallery receptions, happy hours, and special history presentations make the museum an active destination long after regular gallery hours have ended.
Visitors will also appreciate the museum’s peaceful courtyards, shaded gardens, and beautiful outdoor gathering spaces that reflect Santa Barbara’s Spanish Colonial character. The campus frequently hosts weddings, private events, fundraising galas, cultural celebrations, and community festivals, making it one of the city’s most picturesque venues. Whether you’re attending an exhibition opening or simply relaxing in the courtyard, the museum offers a quiet retreat in the middle of downtown Santa Barbara.
Visitor Information
The Santa Barbara Historical Museum is located at 136 East De la Guerra Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, just a short walk from State Street, the Presidio, and many of downtown’s restaurants and shops. Admission is free, making it one of Santa Barbara’s best cultural values. The museum is generally open Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and Thursday from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy free parking in the lot adjacent to the museum entrance, with additional street parking and nearby public garages also available. For current exhibitions, event schedules, or group tours, call (805) 966-1601.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Santa Barbara resident, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum provides a meaningful introduction to the city’s unique character. Its fascinating collections, welcoming atmosphere, and ever-changing exhibitions make it an essential stop for anyone interested in the history, culture, and traditions that continue to define California’s American Riviera. Plan to spend an hour or two exploring the galleries—and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the remarkable stories behind Santa Barbara’s past.
