Viator Rating : 5 (779 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.8/10 (Solid Experience)
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Trolley Tour: See the American Riviera!
90
Overview
Santa Barbara Trolley Tour: Climb aboard for a 90-minute adventure through the 'American Riviera'! This narrated trolley tour showcases the best of Santa Barbara, perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. For 30 years, the Santa Barbara Trolley Tour has been a staple of the Santa Barbara community. It's a relaxing way to discover the city's rich history and stunning scenery.
What to Expect: The tour takes passengers past iconic landmarks such as Stearns Wharf, a bustling pier with shops and restaurants, and East Beach, known for its beautiful views and recreational activities. It also goes past hidden gems like the Andree Clark Bird Refuge and Butterfly Beach, a popular spot for monarch butterflies. The trolley also stops by cultural hotspots such as the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, and Santa Barbara Harbor.
The Santa Barbara Trolley Tour provides a comprehensive overview of Santa Barbara's most famous destinations. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who provides engaging stories and historical context. Please note that food and drinks are not included on the tour. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Guide Quality (8 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Highlights
See Santa Barbara's Best Spots: Visit top attractions like Stearns Wharf and the Santa Barbara Mission.
Enjoy a Fully Narrated Tour: Learn about the city's history and culture from expert guides.
Relax and Ride in Comfort: Sit back and enjoy the views from the open-air trolley.
Perfect for All Ages: A fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides.
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Many visitors thought the tour was a great way to see the city's highlights in a short amount of time.
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Riders frequently enjoyed the convenience of the trolley and the comfortable seating.
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The tour was described as informative and entertaining for all ages.
Some riders felt that the tour was too short.
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A few visitors noted that the trolley could be crowded during peak seasons.
The Journey
Stearns Wharf
Step back in time at Stearns Wharf, California's oldest working wharf, completed in 1872. Breathe in the salty air and panoramic Pacific views. This iconic landmark offers a blend of seaside charm, dining, and stunning vistas. Once a vital shipping hub, it's now a bustling attraction where you can soak up the sun and savor the essence of Santa Barbara's waterfront.
East Beach
Feel the energy of East Beach, a local hotspot known for its volleyball scene, including professional tournaments, alongside skating, paddle sports, and art shows. Relax on the sands while enjoying a panoramic view of the Santa Barbara Mountains. This vibrant beach offers a perfect blend of activity and relaxation.
Andrée Clark Bird Refuge
Escape to the tranquility of Andrée Clark Bird Refuge, a 42-acre open space park featuring a 29-acre brackish lake that is an artificially modified estuary. Observe diverse bird species amidst three islands. Enjoy passive recreation such as bird watching, hiking, and biking in a serene setting with scenic views of aquatic and terrestrial habitats, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.
Butterfly Beach
Discover the allure of Butterfly Beach, nestled in Montecito, renowned for its pristine shoreline and unique east-west orientation, providing breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. This beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Keep an eye out for celebrities who call Montecito home, and enjoy a day of relaxation and ocean adventures in this idyllic setting.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Delve into the rich history of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, established in 1876. Explore rotating exhibits and collections that educate and entertain visitors of all ages. Don't miss the iconic 73-foot Blue Whale skeleton displayed at the entrance, a landmark symbolizing the museum's dedication to preserving and showcasing the natural world.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
Experience the spiritual heart of Santa Barbara at Old Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786. This historical landmark serves as a spiritual home and gathering place. Explore the museum, gift shop, cemetery, and historic gardens. Witness the ongoing work of the Franciscan Friars and Saint Barbara Parish in this serene and historically significant location.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Marvel at the Spanish-Colonial grandeur of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, completed in 1929. This architectural gem features a distinctive four-faced clock tower, red tile roofs, and lush sunken gardens. Take a self-guided tour to admire hand-painted murals, ornate chandeliers, and climb the clock tower for panoramic views of Santa Barbara, offering a visual feast and historical insight.
El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park
Step back in time at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, preserving the site of the last Spanish fortress in Alta California, founded in 1782. Explore the remaining original adobe buildings, El Cuartel and the Cañedo Adobe, and uncover the region's rich Spanish heritage within this 5 1/2-acre park.
Santa Barbara Harbor
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Barbara Harbor, naturally sheltered by mountains and islands. Discover interesting shops, savor delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants, and maybe spot a celebrity yacht. This harbor is one of the world's best, blending natural beauty with a bustling maritime vibe.
Know Before You Go
The Santa Barbara Trolley Tour includes a fully narrated tour of Santa Barbara's most famous landmarks and attractions. Food and drinks are not included, so guests are encouraged to bring their own refreshments or purchase them along the route. The tour departs from the Visitor Center located at 1 Garden St, a short 10-minute walk from Stearns Wharf. Pickup and drop-off are at the same location.
Hot Tip
A tip for enjoying the Santa Barbara Trolley Tour is to arrive early to secure a good seat, especially during peak season. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and consider bringing water to stay hydrated throughout the tour. Many reviewers recommend sitting on the right side of the trolley for the best views!
Review Summary
Customers generally say this 90-minute narrated trolley tour offers an outstanding, convenient introduction to Santa Barbara's history, architecture, and attractions, with frequent praise for knowledgeable and energetic guides like Rob R. Positive points include hassle-free parking at the Visitor Center, helpful staff, and its value as a first-time visitor overview; no significant negatives are commonly mentioned, though some note it's first-come, first-served with vouchers.[3][5]
Frequently Asked Questions
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