The ORIGINAL Downtown Santa Barbara Walking Food & Drink Tour

If you’re considering a way to explore Santa Barbara that combines delicious eats, local wines, and a bit of sightseeing, this tour might just be your best bet. We’ve looked into the Original Downtown Santa Barbara Food & Drink Tour—a highly rated experience with nearly 540 reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating. It promises a good mix of tasty bites, wine tastings, and engaging stories about the city’s iconic landmarks.

What we love about this tour is the way it balances guided storytelling with sampling some of Santa Barbara’s most charming spots. Plus, the small group size of up to six travelers means plenty of personal attention and a relaxed pace. On the flip side, it’s a walking tour, so a certain level of mobility is expected; it may not be best for anyone with mobility issues. Overall, if you’re after a tasty, educational, and intimate way to see downtown Santa Barbara, this tour could be just the thing. It’s especially well-suited for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in the local vibe.

Key Points

• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 score based on nearly 540 reviews
• Includes food, wine tastings, and sightseeing all in a manageable 3-4 hour package
• Small group size (max 6) for personalized attention
• Good value for the amount of food, drinks, and insights offered
• Ideal for foodies, history buffs, and those wanting a relaxed, guided experience
• Not suited for those with mobility issues or large groups

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This walking tour offers a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown. The blend of tasting local wines and sampling regional foods makes it appealing for those who love good eats. But it’s also about the stories behind the city’s landmarks—bringing Santa Barbara’s history and architecture to life through engaging commentary from your guide.

The small group size is a big plus. With only six people max, it feels more like a friendly outing rather than a crowded bus tour. That means more interaction with your guide, more flexibility, and the chance to ask plenty of questions. Plus, the tour is designed to be accessible, with a central meeting point that’s easy to find and navigate.

One of the biggest highlights, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable guide—many comments mention how much fun and how informative the guides are. Kirk and Nancy, the guides mentioned in reviews, seem to really know their stuff, sharing stories that keep you engaged and make the city’s history come alive.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour is planned to last about 3 to 4 hours, with a carefully curated route through key spots downtown. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll experience:

Stop 1: El Paseo Building

This spot isn’t just about the architecture—although the historic buildings from the 1920s are stunning—but also about the vibe of the neighborhood. The courtyards and local businesses, especially the wine tasting rooms, set a relaxed tone for the start of your adventure. You’ll enjoy a wine tasting of 3-4 wines and share a grazing box with your group. One reviewer mentioned, “The food and wines were great, but Kirk was the best part of the experience,” illustrating how the guide’s storytelling elevates the visit.

Stop 2: Casa De La Guerra & Surroundings

While the tour usually discusses Casa De La Guerra, you won’t go inside the home (which is a museum). Still, the exterior and history are worth a mention. The nearby Presidio is also part of the backdrop, adding some historical context to your walk. If time permits, you’re encouraged to revisit these landmarks later on your own.

Stop 3: Arlington Theatre

Passing by this historic venue, the guide shares stories about its significance to Santa Barbara’s arts scene. It’s a quick stop (about 15 minutes), but a photo op and a chance to hear some local lore.

Stop 4: Santa Barbara County Courthouse

This is often a highlight for visitors—its stunning architecture and panoramic views make it a must-see. The tour might include a quick peek inside if time allows. Note: metal detectors have been added at the entrance, so leave anything perceived as a weapon at home.

Stop 5: The Granada Theatre

Another iconic landmark, the Granada has a rich theatrical history. Though you can’t go inside, the exterior provides plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to learn about Santa Barbara’s entertainment scene.

Stop 6: La Arcada Courtyard & Other Hidden Gems

Winding through downtown, you get to see charming arcades, statues, and even turtles in a pond. If time permits, the guide will talk about El Presidio, adding even more local flavor. The streets are lively, with lots of photo-worthy spots.

The Food & Drink Experience

One of the main draws of this tour is the variety of tastings. From wine in the early part of the tour to food samples from local restaurants, you’ll be eating well throughout. Expect up to 6 stops, featuring regional cuisine like Italian pasta, Asian dishes, Mexican bites, and some sweets. The wine tastings are carefully chosen, with most reviews indicating they’re of high quality and good variety.

The food offerings are generally considered generous—many reviews mention coming away quite full, with some likening it to a light lunch. The tour includes water and one non-alcoholic drink, plus additional alcohol tastings, which keep the experience lively and fun.

Authenticity and Value

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of food and wine and the knowledge of the guides. Many say it’s more than just a food tour—it’s an educational experience that also showcases Santa Barbara’s architecture and history.

Price Consideration

At $175 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but many feel the value is justified given the amount of food, drink, and insider knowledge included. The small group size and curated route add to the feeling of an intimate experience that you can’t get on larger tours.

The Guide and Overall Experience

The reviews make it clear that the guides are key. Kirk and Nancy are praised for their friendly demeanor, storytelling skills, and deep local knowledge. They really seem to enjoy sharing their passion, which makes the tour feel personal rather than scripted.

Guests appreciate how much they learn about Santa Barbara’s landmarks, architecture, and history—stories that you might not find in a guidebook. Many reviews mention how much fun and how engaging the guides are, which in turn makes the experience more memorable.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: About 3.5 hours, perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
• Group size: Max 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Meeting point: 814 State St, easily accessible downtown.
• Start time: 12:00 pm, with the tour ending within six blocks.
• Price: $175 per person, including most tastings, guide, and some extras.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but be aware of walking involved.
• Food allergies: Can accommodate many restrictions if notified beforehand.
• Children: Allowed if they enjoy walking and eating; noisy kids should be managed outside.
• Pets: Not recommended unless you’re prepared to stay outside with your animal.

The Bottom Line

If you’re a fan of delicious food, local wine, and engaging stories, this tour offers a well-balanced mix. It’s especially great for those who want a small-group experience that feels personal and authentic, rather than rushed or commercial. The guides are clearly a highlight, making the day more enjoyable and informative.

The tour’s focus on Santa Barbara’s landmarks adds context to your tastings, turning a simple food walk into a mini history lesson. The amount of food and drink you get is quite generous, and the variety keeps things interesting. While the price isn’t pocket change, many reviews confirm that it’s good value given the quality and depth of the experience.

For travelers who love to explore on foot, enjoy good stories, and appreciate a good glass of wine or regional cuisine, this tour hits all those marks. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small groups who want a relaxed, tasty, and informative day in Santa Barbara.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around downtown Santa Barbara, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. If you have mobility concerns, a private tour might be a better fit.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 3 to 4 hours long, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Most of the tastings, including food and wine, are included, along with the guide, local taxes, water, and one non-alcoholic drink. Additional alcohol tastings are also part of the package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within that window are not refunded.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 814 State St and ends within six blocks of the starting point, within downtown Santa Barbara.

Are children allowed?
Yes, if they enjoy walking and eating; younger children should be managed if they become noisy. The tour is best suited for those who can handle a fair amount of walking.

Are pets allowed?
Pets aren’t generally recommended, but if you need to bring one, you should notify the tour provider and plan to stay outside with your animal.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and bring sun protection or an umbrella depending on the weather.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code—just casual, comfortable attire best suited for walking.

In short, this tour offers a tasteful, engaging way to experience Santa Barbara’s sights, bites, and sips. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, intimate, and educational outing with plenty of delicious surprises along the way.