Our Featured Experience
Adobe & Aperitif
A relaxed, intimate way to experience downtown Santa Barbara through wine, food, and architecture.
We begin at Casa Covarrubias, built in 1817 for my ancestors.
From there, we move through the city at an unhurried pace, stopping in places that help make sense of Santa Barbara's layered history.
Along the way, we taste local wine, share good food, and visit buildings and businesses that continue to shape this community.
Small group. Comfortable rhythm. Time to sit, taste, and connect.
What’s included
Historic sites with context
Two curated Santa Barbara wine tastings
Artisan cheese pairing
Local bites at carefully selected stops
Clock tower views at the Courthouse
A seated finale with food and wine
3.5 hours through downtown
This is wine tasting with perspective.
Food with context. History without the lecture.
The Stops
CASA COVARRUBIAS
Built in 1817 for Domingo Carrillo, comandante of the Santa Barbara Presidio and my ancestor. One of the city’s oldest adobes and now part of the Historical Museum. We begin here.
WINE & CHEESE
Santa Barbara wines paired with artisan cheese in a locally loved setting. Supporting independent businesses is part of the experience.
EL PRESIDIO
Founded in 1782, Spain’s final military fortress in California. The beginning of Santa Barbara’s colonial chapter.
PICKLE ROOM
A historic building that once housed Jimmy’s Oriental Gardens, located in what was once downtown’s Chinatown and Japantown. A reminder that Santa Barbara’s story is layered.
SANTA BARBARA COURTHOUSE
Built in 1929 following the 1925 earthquake. Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and panoramic views from the 85 foot clock tower.
AU BON CLIMAT
One of Santa Barbara County’s pioneering wineries, founded in 1982. Burgundian style wines in an intimate downtown tasting room.
CASA DE LA GUERRA
Built between 1818 and 1828 for José de la Guerra and María Antonia Carrillo. Once the social and political heart of Mexican era Santa Barbara.
LA PALOMA CAFE
Established in 1940. A longtime gathering place. We close here with food, wine, and conversation.
Who this is for
Curious travelers.
Locals wanting a deeper connection.
Couples, solo guests, and small groups who appreciate good wine and meaningful experiences.
No expertise required. Just curiosity.
The Approach
We are not rushing through a checklist.
Each stop has intention. Sometimes it is about the wine. Sometimes the building. Sometimes the story. Sometimes simply honoring a business that contributes to this community.
You leave with context, not just photos.
Unhurried. Personal. Engaging.
3.5 hours | $175/per person
Ages 21 and up | Maximum 6 guests
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
Experience Santa Barbara was created to highlight the places that give this city its character like:
Independent restaurants
Boutique hotels
Family owned tasting rooms
Local makers and galleries
Historic sites that still matter
As a local, my intention is simple: to guide visitors toward businesses that contribute meaningfully to Santa Barbara’s culture and economy.
We highlight restaurants, small hotels, art spaces, museums, and outdoor adventure providers to create experiences that feel connected rather than commercial.
Whether it is a wine tasting in a courtyard, a chef’s table dinner, a kayak tour along the coast, horseback riding in the foothills, or a stay at a boutique inn tucked off the main path, the focus remains the same.
Support what makes this place special.
Beyond Downtown
The Downtown experience is the foundation
From there, we offer curated experiences across the Central Coast:
Private wine tours in Santa Ynez Valley
Chef collaborations and intimate dinners
Hotel partnerships
Gallery walks and museum visits
Coastal kayaking and whale watching
Horseback riding and hiking experiences
Dog friendly stays and outings
Seasonal retreats
Each experience is designed in collaboration with local partners we trust.