Our California road trip included a two night stay in Santa Barbara, California. WOW abounds in this beautiful coastal town and it’s nearby neighbor, Solvang. Here are five FREE things to do in Santa Barbara. (And one small expense in nearby Solvang).
- Take a morning stroll along East Cabrillo Blvd
- Tour the Santa Barbara Courthouse and Climb the Clocktower
- Enjoy the scenic drive along the San Marcos Pass
- Stroll the beautiful streets of Solvang
- Visit the largest Fig tree in the United States
Stroll On The Santa Barbara Beaches
First thing in the morning, we enjoyed a beautiful stroll down East Cabrillo Blvd for breakfast. Afterward, we were on mission for a new camera for my husband. We had been shopping for one before traveling to California, but had not settled on one yet. When we strolled into Samy’s Camera shop and were greeted with the kind’ve WOW service we love to write about, we made our decision and purchased a Sony A6300 from Larry Mills.
Santa Barbara Courthouse and Clocktower
Larry recommended we head to the Santa Barbara Courthouse and Clock tower next. This proved to be the perfect first stop for trying out the new camera.
In keeping with the Spanish-Moorish architecture of all of Santa Barbara, the Courthouse is a real treat to explore. The bonus of being free makes it a perfect stop for families and photography aficionados alike.
We happened to be visiting right at noon and were able to enjoy the ringing of the clock tower bells.
Breathtaking Views of Santa Barbara
After enjoying the bells, we climbed the stairs to enjoy the 360° view from the top. I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves.
Photo Tour That Will Make You Want To Drive The Pacific Coast Hwy Despite 2017 Big Sur Landslides
Driving to Solvang: Hwy 154 San Marcos Pass
Getting hungry but really wanting to enjoy lunch in Solvang, we went back to the hotel to pick up the car. The scenic drive on Hwy 154 over San Marcos Pass affords some lovely views of the Santa Ynez Valley.
We took advantage of our new camera while we enjoyed the views from this Vista Point.
Solvang Sweets
It was a long and might I add, beautiful, drive from Monterey Bay, California to The Fess Parker Inn in Santa Barbara, California. After having a fabulous dinner at The Novo Restaurant and Lounge in San Luis Obispo, we were unable to squeeze in a stop in Solvang. Since this was on my must do list, we had to find a way to do it while staying in Santa Barbara.
A trip to Solvang may cost you a little bit of money as it’s hard to pass up the food and sweets. We had an unfortunate and rather frustrating time in Solvang finding a place that could accommodateour kids’ food allergies.
Disappointing as this was, we were finally able to find some food and get on with why I was really in Solvang: DANISHES! I was so excited to discover that Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery had some nut-free options my kids could also enjoy.
Adorable Alert!
The town of Solvang is quite adorable and after getting over my disappointment in the restaurants, we enjoyed the rest of our afternoon in this town.
One More Landmark For The Day
On our way back to the hotel, we stopped off to get some pictures of the famous Fig tree I had read about online.
This particular Moreton Bay Fig Tree is believed to be the largest Fig tree in the United States and was planted originally in 1863.
It was transplanted to its current location a year later and now belongs to the city of Santa Barbara and is listed on register of Big Trees as well as being considered a California State Landmark. I confess, I had no idea that Fig trees even grew big at all much less to this enormous state.
The Journey Continues But Tonight We Rest
Being fairly exhausted from such a busy day, we opted to stay in that night and have a pizza. Being in California for just three days with three kids we had already visited seven cities, stayed in three hotels, driven nearly 500 miles, taken countless photos, and we had not even been to Disney yet! With two more glorious weeks to go, tonight, we relax! Up next? Anaheim and the Mouse of course!!
California can be an expensive place to visit, but there is so much to see and do for free if you just look around. Santa Barbara and Solvang both offer beautiful architecture, outdoor scenery, and countless interesting sights to see all for no charge!
Check Out These WOW Destinations
Five Free Things To Do In Santa Barbara, California
August 29, 2017 No Comments
Five Free Things To Do in Santa Barbara, California Our
Northeast Tennessee Tourism
August 23, 2017 No Comments
Appalachian Mountain Hike In Northeast Tennessee: The Beauty Spot
August 23, 2017 5 Comments
It’s no secret around here that I love these beautiful Appalachian mountains that I call home! I know this is a travel blog, but let’s be honest, we can’t travel all the time.
Complete Guide To Disney Boardwalk Part 2: The Restaurants
August 15, 2017 9 Comments
Complete Guide To Disney Boardwalk Part 2: The Restaurants In
Complete Guide To Disney Boardwalk Part 1: The Resorts
July 31, 2017 17 Comments
The Boardwalk is my favorite Disney resort location on property. In this post, I will give a brief overview of the resort properties located on the Boardwalk.
Hiking Backbone Rock In Shady Valley Tennessee: The Shortest Tunnel In The World
July 26, 2017 14 Comments
Motorists pass through what is known as “The Shortest Tunnel in the World” as they travel along TN 133.
Google+
YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED
Complete Guide To Disney Boardwalk Part 1: The Resorts
Take a California Road Trip: San Francisco Day 1
Getaway To One of The Best Florida Beaches & Islands: Amelia Island
VeraVise WOW Travel 2017 ©
