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The town of Santa Barbara is super cute and there's a mission on one side that you can go in--there are also vinyards in the surrounding areas if you want to explore those, and good restaurants.

I've only driven through on Highway 1 excursions and stopped for lunch or dinner, but I remember it being really nice.

Oh sad, you just missed fiesta (old spanish days), it was last week. Going up to Solvang (about an hour north) or los olivos for wine tasting is fun. In Santa Barbara, just hanging out on State Street is fun. There are a ton of shops, restaurants, clubs and bars all up and down the street. There is also the old buildings of downtown Santa Barbara and the Presidio. We just went up to the bell tower of the courthouse this weekend and that was interesting. There is a nice wharf to hang out on with some touristy things. The beaches are fantastic of course. At this point, we don't get to do too much in the way of adult things and I know a lot more about what is going on for kiddos.

One yummy restaurant downtown is Il'Cadario it is amazing. But there is so much good food here. The weather is great just to walk around.

What do you like to do?

I'd go to Santa Ynez and go wine tasting! There's also a cute breakfast where you can have your feet in the sand while you eat. I think it's Shoreline Cafe...I'll look it up.

Julia child's fav taco place - la super rica taqueria. DO IT!!!!! Cash only, picnic bench style seating but sooooo good.

Santa Barbara and the wine towns just north are some of my favorite places. It's awesome up there! If you have time to drive to Los Olivos, there is a lot of wine, yummy lunch spots and cute shops. One tasting room even pairs cupcakes with their wines ~ Sarloos and Sons.
If you are staying in sb ... Milk and honey is super cute for happy hour and French Press is a great coffee shop! There are lots of shops along state street and the surrounding streets are fun to just explore. Have fun!!!

@gracecat: hah, I was going to mention Julia Child's favorite too the horchata is amazing.

@daniellemybelle: I'm glad you are having fun. It's a beautiful town. I'm a little biased since we moved here.

The Santa Barbara Zoo is really cute and do-able in an hour or so. Maybe not as fun without baby but it's pretty there, you can pack a meal and do a picnic! The Palace is super good for lunch or dinner. Try The Habit for a great hamburger and/or a shake!