Aside from a thriving food and wine culture, Santa Barbara is also home to a variety of museums that offer visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the region. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or natural science, Santa Barbara has a museum to suit your interests. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top museums in Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art is located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara and is home to a collection of over 27,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s collection includes European, American, and Asian art, as well as contemporary works. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts rotating exhibits, special events, and museum-organized travel throughout the year.

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

Located on the waterfront in the Santa Barbara Harbor, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum celebrates the rich maritime history of the region. The museum’s exhibits focus on topics such as local fishing, naval history, and the role of the Santa Barbara Channel in maritime trade. Visitors can also take a tour of the historic Navy Reserve Center, which is located adjacent to the museum.

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is located in a beautiful park setting near Rocky Nook Park, and offers visitors a chance to explore the natural history of the region. The museum’s exhibits focus on the plants, animals, and geology of the Santa Barbara area. Visitors can also explore the museum’s backyard, which includes a butterfly exhibit, a bird sanctuary, a nature trail, and planetarium.

Santa Barbara Historical Museum

The Santa Barbara Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of Santa Barbara and the surrounding region. The museum’s exhibits focus on the people, places, and events that have shaped the area over the past few centuries. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents, as well as participate in special events and educational programs.

MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation

The MOXI is a museum focused on science and technology. The museum’s exhibits are designed to be interactive and hands-on, encouraging visitors to explore and experiment with scientific concepts. Exhibits include a giant guitar that visitors can play, a virtual reality exhibit, and a rooftop garden featuring renewable energy technology.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB)

Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, MCASB features an impressive collection of contemporary art that includes painting, sculpture, and multimedia installations. The museum's exhibitions are curated to showcase the work of both established and emerging artists from around the world, providing visitors with a diverse and thought-provoking experience. In addition to its permanent collection, MCASB offers rotating exhibitions, special events, and educational programs.

Santa Barbara is home to a diverse array of museums, each offering visitors a chance to explore a different aspect of the region’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or architecture, there’s a museum in Santa Barbara that’s sure to pique your interest.

Muse-Worthy Museums