Why do you love Downtown Santa Barbara? Send us a testimonial about your favorite downtown experiences, activities, shopping hot spots, dining delicacies and more! Email it to info@sbdo.org

"I have lived in Santa Barbara for the last 18 years and have worked on State Street in the Balboa Building for over 13 years. State Street is a charming, well-kept street that connects everyone in Santa Barbara and I love all of the great restaurants with so many outdoor dining options." Claire F., NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

"ONE reason I love “downtown” is seeing familiar faces! When I take a break from the hotel for a stroll, I encounter a variety of people who work downtown as well as friends who are downtown for a meal or shopping. It’s a good feeling to smile & greet one another and feel part of the community!" Nadine T., Hotel Santa Barbara

"I live Downtown. I work Downtown. I love Downtown!" Randy W., Santa Barbara Bank & Trust

"Downtown Santa Barbara provides the ambiance of architectural and community charm for me. I like the walkability and the leisurely stroll that I always enjoy whatever time of the day that I happen to be passing through as visitor. The red tiles of the walk path and the arches of the paseos make me feel like a traveler back in time, while the modern stores, bars, cafes, and dining spaces still anchor me to the here and now. On clear, sunny days, it is hard to ignore the amazing skies and mountains from any of downtown's outdoor vantage point. On December evenings, the holiday lights and festivities of gathering crowds breathe life, energy, and a certain intimacy that makes downtown not just any other destination but also an experience and memory. I love Downtown Santa Barbara because of traces one leaves behind, the reacquaintance of the familiar, and the anticipation of new discoveries." Arlene C. P.

"Things I Love About Being Downtown: 1) Parades. 2) People Watching. 3) Shopping. 4) Walking. 5) Dining. 6) 1st Thursday & much more!" Carol M.

"I love living downtown! There is no place like it in the world. I can walk down to the beach in the morning, grab a cup of coffee from Santa Barbara RoCo on the way, and watch the sun rise! Walking back, I often window shop and stop for breakfast at one of so many quaint little restaurants. It’s a life-style choice! I wouldn’t trade it!" Ruth Ann B., Coldwell Banker Realtor

"One of the best things about working in the Arts & Cultural Center downtown, is that my office is within walking distance to both the Arlington and Granada Theatres. When there are concerts or other performing arts performances, it’s so convenient to head to one of the upscale restaurants beforehand like Opal, Olio e Limone, Petros or Jane’s—or more informal places like Carlitos, Saigon or Tupelo Junction which are all within a couple of blocks to the theatres. I also like to head further down State Street for shopping in and around Paseo Nuevo Mall and all the interesting shops along the way. With flags flying, trees and flowers blooming and lots of tourists visiting throughout the city, I find that it all lends to a very festive afternoon or evening in our spectacular downtown." Barbara B.

"When my husband, Peter, and I were engaged (18 years ago!), he took me on a tour of Santa Barbara neighborhoods. Because I would be relocating from Orange County, he wanted me to see the different areas of S.B. and decide where I would like to live. I fell in love with the Upper East mainly because it had a grid, sidewalks and street lights and it was an older, more established part of town. After living on East Mission Street for many years, I can now say the main reason I love the Upper East is that I can walk Downtown! I love being able to walk down to restaurants, shopping, theater, etc. and walk home. If I drive, I am minutes away from everything. My husband's business is at 15 W. Carrillo, right in the heart of town. Our entire lives are centered in downtown Santa Barbara and we wouldn't have it any other way!" Deborah B.

"Full of life and diversity with an endless array of things to do and see!" Stephanie P., FLOAT Luxury Spa

"It's easy to walk around, lots of nice restaurants, coffee shops and outside terraces." Peter S.