The ORIGINAL Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour

This review covers what travelers can expect from the highly-rated Original Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour. If you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed, engaging afternoon exploring Santa Barbara’s streets, sample local cuisine and wines, and learn about the city’s unique character, this tour might just be a perfect fit.

Two things that immediately stand out are the knowledgeable guides—like Kirk, who’s praised for his lively stories—and the quality of the food and wine tastings. These elements ensure that your half-day isn’t just about walking but about experiencing Santa Barbara’s vibrant essence firsthand.

However, a possible consideration is the price point—$175 per person isn’t cheap—but with the included tastings, guided sightseeing, and small group size, many find it delivers good value. Still, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer self-guided adventures, this might not be the best choice.

Ultimately, this tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, local flavors, and intimate group settings, making it perfect for foodies, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of Santa Barbara beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• The tour offers a well-balanced mix of local history, architecture, and food tasting.
• Small groups (max six) ensure an intimate, personalized experience.
• Guides like Kirk are praised for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling.
• With multiple stops for wine tastings, the experience appeals to those who enjoy wine and good drinks.
• The tour covers major landmarks, including Santa Barbara’s historic courthouse and theaters.
• Food and drink tastings seem to be substantial enough to serve as a light lunch for most travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: El Paseo Building

The tour kicks off at the El Paseo Building on State Street — a lively, historic spot that’s more than just a building. It’s a small neighborhood filled with local businesses, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants dating back to the 1920s. Walking into this courtyard is like stepping into a Santa Barbara secret, with lush surroundings and a relaxed vibe that sets the tone for the day.

Here, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting of 3-4 wines in a local tasting room. We loved the way this start combines casual sipping with a chance to chat with fellow travelers. The shared grazing box adds a relaxed, communal feel, making it more about tasting and chatting than just sipping alone.

Casa De La Guerra and Local History

Next, most tours walk past the historic Casa De La Guerra, a site that whispers stories of early Santa Barbara. While the house itself isn’t entered—because of time constraints—guides emphasize its importance and encourage visitors to check it out afterward. It’s a great way to connect the dots between the city’s past and its lively present.

The Arlington Theatre

Walking past the grand Arlington Theatre, you’ll hear snippets of Santa Barbara’s entertainment history. The theatre’s stunning architecture sets a nostalgic tone, and though you don’t go inside, learning about its role in the community adds a layer of cultural context. It’s a quick stop, but a memorable one, especially for lovers of old-school movie palaces.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

The courthouse isn’t just a functioning government building — it’s a visual feast, often rivaling the city’s best landmarks for beauty. Our guides love showing off its stunning architecture and intricate details, though sometimes time doesn’t permit an inside tour. Metal detectors at the entrance are a new security feature, so leave behind anything that could be mistaken for a weapon.

The 30-minute stop here is a highlight for many, offering a chance to snap photos and soak in the grandeur of Santa Barbara’s most iconic civic building. The guides often share fun stories about the courthouse’s history, making the visit both educational and visually inspiring.

The Granada Theatre

Another grand theatre, the Granada, gets its moment in the spotlight. It’s a spot that oozes old-Hollywood charm, and while you don’t go inside, the exterior and history make for great conversation starter. It’s a quick stop, but one that helps paint the picture of Santa Barbara’s vibrant cultural scene.

The La Arcada Courtyard

Wandering through the quaint, art-filled La Arcada Courtyard is a delight. The tour weaves through its charming alleyways, stopping to admire statues, quirky turtles in the pond, and street art. This part of downtown is a perfect example of Santa Barbara’s casual artistic spirit, and photos here are almost obligatory.

Optional Stops: El Presidio and State Street

Depending on timing, some tours include a quick talk about El Presidio, Santa Barbara’s historic fort, or strolls down State Street itself. These areas showcase the city’s blend of history and modern life—boutiques, cafes, and bustling streets.

Food and Drink: The Heart of the Tour

Throughout the 3 to 4 hours, you’ll visit 5 to 6 eateries, each offering a taste of Santa Barbara’s local flavors. The food is more than just snacks; it’s a curated sampling of what the city’s culinary scene offers. From small bites to full tasting plates, many reviews note that the portions can be enough for lunch, making it a satisfying experience.

The wine tastings are a standout feature. With up to two tastings included, you’ll sample some of the best local wines—perfect for wine lovers or those keen to learn what makes Santa Barbara’s wine region special. The guide’s knowledge about the wines and the local vintners adds depth to the tasting experience, turning it into a mini wine class.

Authentic and Engaging Guides

Reviews consistently praise guides like Kirk for their friendly, informative, and humorous approach. We loved the way guides weave local history into the walk, making it engaging rather than dry. One reviewer highlighted Kirk’s incredible knowledge and storytelling skills, which transform a simple walking tour into a lively history lesson.

The Value of a Small Group

With a maximum of six travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This means more personalized attention, easier conversations, and the chance to ask questions freely. This size also helps the guide adapt the tour to the group’s pace and interests.

Price and Overall Value

At $175 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest city activity, but it includes a lot: multiple tastings, guided sightseeing, and insider knowledge. The small-group setting and guaranteed skip-the-line benefits also boost its value. For those who love food, wine, history, and intimate experiences, the cost is reasonable, especially considering the quality of the guide and the tastings.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes — the tour involves quite a bit of strolling through downtown.
• Bring a small bag or camera to capture the sights and statues.
• Check the weather forecast — the tour is outdoors, and the experience depends on good weather.
• If you have dietary restrictions, let the team know in advance; they can accommodate many needs.
• The tour is best suited for moderate physical fitness levels due to walking, but private options might serve guests with mobility issues better.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy stories, sights, and tastes in a small-group setting. It’s perfect if you want a well-rounded introduction to Santa Barbara’s history and food scene without feeling rushed. It also suits couples, families, or small groups wanting a fun, educational, and delicious way to spend an afternoon.

If you’re a solo traveler eager to connect with guides and fellow explorers, you’ll appreciate the friendly atmosphere. Those looking for a comprehensive, authentic taste of Santa Barbara’s downtown will find this tour thoroughly satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, if your kids enjoy walking, history, and tasting, they could enjoy it. The guide suggests bringing kids if you think they’ll appreciate the experience, but loud or disruptive children should be managed outside the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 3.5 hours, including walking and stops. It’s designed to be a leisurely experience, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy the tastings and sights.

What does the price include?
You get local taxes, beverages (water and one non-alcoholic drink), food and wine tastings, additional alcohol tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and the benefit of skipping long lines at eateries.

Are the tastings enough for a meal?
Most guests find the food and wine sampling to be filling enough for a light lunch, with some departure points suggesting you might only need a dinner later.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

Where do the tours start and end?
The tour begins at 814 State St and ends in Santa Barbara’s downtown area, making it easy to explore more afterward.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour involves walking, but the meeting point is central and accessible. No hotel pickup or drop-off is included.

Final Thoughts

The Original Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour offers a compelling blend of local history, delicious tastings, and personable guiding in a small-group setting. It’s a genuine way to experience Santa Barbara beyond the beaches and hotels, especially if you’re keen on tasting the regional wines and exploring the city’s historic spots firsthand.

The tour’s strength lies in its guide’s storytelling and the quality of the samples, making it a well-rounded introduction for curious travelers. While it may seem pricey, many feel the personal touch and authentic experiences justify the cost.

If you value a relaxed pace, intimate setting, and a good mix of education and tasting, this tour will likely become a highlight of your Santa Barbara visit. It’s especially suitable for those who love local flavors, history, and meaningful small-group adventures.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a return visitor, this tour promises a memorable, flavorful glimpse into Santa Barbara’s soul.