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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Barbara

Fun activities

Activities that are genuinely fun instead of just ways to kill time while you wait for the day to end.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
F45 Training Santa Barbara image 1
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Gym offers a spacious indoor/outdoor layout with large garage doors that open to fresh air and natural light. Energy stays high with live DJs on Saturdays and enthusiastic trainers who create a community-driven atmosphere. The environment feels welcoming and clean, supporting a variety of challenging group workouts.

People are saying

"The coaches here are so welcoming and encouraging."

"It's a great indoor/outdoor space with garage doors that open up."

"The atmosphere here for fun activities is super friendly and welcoming."

Good to know

1

F45 Training Santa Barbara offers a 7-day pass at a reasonable price for newcomers.

2

Saturday DJ classes create a lively atmosphere and enhance the workout experience.

3

Sunday yoga cooldown sessions are available for relaxation after intense workouts.

02
Santa Barbara Trapeze Co image 1

Outdoor trapeze offers exciting fun with a safe environment for all ages. Families enjoy a cozy lounge and shaded seating while cheers build community spirit. Activities boost confidence and bring joy in a laidback, scenic setting.

Trapeze activities offer an exciting and fun experience. The camp provides a safe environment where participants enjoy themselves and have a great time.

People are saying

"The staff's friendliness made these fun activities so encouraging and safe."

"The instructors were so patient and motivating with the kids."

"The instructors here are so supportive and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

They offer a variety of classes and camps for kids, suitable for ages 3 and up.

2

The initial safety briefing is comprehensive and eases apprehensions about trying the activity.

3

They often have 'open house' classes where you can experience the facility for free.

03
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum image 1

Spacious museum offers interactive exhibits and a wet deck where kids touch ocean specimens. Quiet, seaside English vibe blends with spectacular harbor views. Activities mix hands-on learning and fun for all ages.

Interactive exhibits make learning about maritime history engaging and fun for kids. The museum offers a memorable mix of education and entertainment.

People are saying

"You'll learn so much about local maritime history here."

"You get a great view from the 4th floor."

"The interactive exhibits are really fun for all ages."

Good to know

1

Admission is $12 per adult, with discounts for military and first responders.

2

Free parking is available for 90 minutes at the museum.

3

Interactive exhibits include a sportfishing game and a boat driving simulation.

04
Eat This Shoot That! image 1
Tourist attraction

Walking tours offer food tastings and local history in a lively neighborhood. Guides share detailed stories while leading groups through unique establishments. Activities blend fun with culture for an engaging experience.

Activities include a variety of fun tours that mix history with engaging experiences. Food options add to the overall entertaining atmosphere.

People are saying

"Our guide Hannah was great and knew so much about the food."

"I learned so much history from my awesome tour guide."

"Our guide Hannah was knowledgeable and fun, making it enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The food tour includes a variety of local offerings from unique businesses.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot on the food tour.

3

The tour lasts approximately three hours, allowing ample time for exploration.

05
Lil' Toot Santa Barbara image 1
Tourist attraction

Small boat cruises offer intimate seating for groups up to 19 with calm waters ensuring smooth rides. Wildlife like seals and dolphins add excitement while the captain shares fun facts. Perfect for families and small celebrations seeking a quick, scenic escape.

Calm waters make the harbor trip smooth and easy on those prone to seasickness. The boat fits groups of 12 comfortably, with the captain and Garrett sharing fun facts throughout the ride.

People are saying

"It's a magical and stress-free celebration with a wonderful crew."

"The captains and crew are so friendly, sharing fun facts and great commentary."

"It's a perfect little escape to unwind and enjoy the scenery."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the boat tour to ensure availability.

2

The boat accommodates up to 19 passengers, making it suitable for small groups.

3

The boat ride costs $10 each way, providing a budget-friendly option.

06
Menchaca Chocolates image 1
Chocolate factory

Chocolate factory offers craft station for decorating boxes and a chocolate bar making experience. Cozy space with fun music and board games creates a lively, welcoming vibe. Visitors enjoy both tasty treats and creative activities.

Craft projects add an extra layer of fun and engagement. The chocolate bar making experience offers a unique and interactive activity for all interests.

People are saying

"I loved decorating my own chocolate box and choosing my toppings."

"The owners are friendly and helpful hosts."

"I loved decorating my own chocolate box and designing chocolate bars."

Good to know

1

The workshop is suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity.

2

Vegan and gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions.

3

Menchaca Chocolates offers free parking at the El Mercado Shopping Center.

07
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation image 1

Three floors offer hands-on science and creative challenges for all ages. Rooftop features panoramic views and lively water play. Quiet spots balance the energetic, making it fun and engaging for families.

Hands-on exhibits create a fun and interactive environment for kids and adults alike. Live demos and exploratory science activities keep the experience engaging and educational for the whole family.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly, my kids could have spent hours creating in the maker's space."

"The rooftop offers a beautiful view of Santa Barbara."

"The exhibits are engaging, hands-on, and so much fun for kids."

Good to know

1

Admission is $20 for adults and children.

2

Toddler Tuesdays offer special programming for young kids.

3

The museum does not have on-site parking available.

08
Kids World image 1
Playground

Wooden structures with a castle-like aesthetic create a fun, maze-like playground with slides and climbing animals like a whale and shark. Separate zones keep kids safe and organized, while shaded benches offer rest spots amid the chaotic, noisy weekend crowds.

Slides provide exciting exits from play areas, keeping kids engaged. The playground suits toddlers to preteens, offering a space for running, playing, and meeting friends.

People are saying

"It's a really fun, kid-friendly place for kids to play."

"The playground has lots of slides and climbing structures."

"It's a fun place for kids to play, run, and climb."

Good to know

1

Kids World is well monitored and safe for children.

2

Parking can be challenging on weekends.

3

The park is clean and well-kept.

09
Sage Society Santa Barbara- Women's Fitness image 1

Fitness center for women and moms offers on-site childcare and expert instructors. Classes mix fun workout challenges with expert guidance to build strength and confidence. Space feels open and light with a supportive community that encourages empowerment.

Classes offer fun workout challenges that keep motivation high. Each session is different and engaging, combining challenge with enjoyment to build strength and confidence.

People are saying

"This gym is a welcoming, supportive community for women."

"It's so Baby-Friendly with amazing childcare available for your little ones."

"It's a welcoming place for fun activities and finding community."

Good to know

1

Childcare is available during classes, making it easier for moms to attend.

2

Classes can be canceled up to 4 hours in advance without penalty.

3

Class sizes are small, allowing for personalized attention from instructors.

10
The Painted Cabernet image 1
Painting studio

Painting studio offers step-by-step instructions with high energy music that keeps the vibe lively and fun. Classes often run longer, giving a more in-depth experience. Seating is basic, so comfort is limited during long sessions.

Activities feature high energy music and a welcoming vibe from artists and staff. The atmosphere stays consistently fun and engaging throughout.

People are saying

"I always had a fun time and left happy with my work."

"I had an awesome time painting and creating art here."

Good to know

1

The class lasts approximately three hours, which is longer than advertised.

2

Instructors provide step-by-step painting instructions for all skill levels.

3

Classes are suitable for both beginners and experienced painters.

11
The Crafter's Library image 1

Bright space with colorful art supplies invites creativity. Hands-on workshops like sewing classes and resin coaster making offer fun learning. Calm dog adds a cozy vibe that makes crafting enjoyable for all skill levels.

Hands-on workshops like sewing classes and resin coaster making offer fun ways to learn new skills. Crafting activities such as making fans and candles keep things creative and enjoyable.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; they loved the variety of crafts!"

"I took a paper making class and it was super fun."

"I learned a new skill during a super fun class."

Good to know

1

The Crafter's Library offers a variety of crafting classes every week.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events to secure the upstairs area.

3

The store hosts a Drag Queen Story hour, promoting inclusivity for families.

12
Power of Your Om Yoga Santa Barbara image 1

Studio shines with infrared heated rooms offering stunning mountain and ocean views. Classes mix fun flows and great music, creating a lively vibe. Friendly community and vinyasa focus make it welcoming and energizing.

Classes feature incredible music and fun flows with space to move or dance freely. Instructors blend challenging sequences with a stress-free, community-centered atmosphere.

People are saying

"I considered this the best yoga studio in Santa Barbara."

"The classes here are fun and grounding, leaving you feeling relaxed."

"The community here makes for such fun activities; it feels like family."

Good to know

1

Yoga Sculpt class with Lindsey is very challenging and requires prior experience.

2

Periodic wharf yoga sessions offer a unique outdoor experience.

3

Adrienne hosts special events that provide unique yoga experiences.

13
The Red Piano image 1
Piano bar

Red music-themed bar shines with live piano performances that energize the space. Small booths and patio tables host a friendly, fun crowd enjoying mixed cocktails. Dancing and singing add to the upbeat vibe, making it perfect for late-night fun.

Lively music and an extraordinary piano entertainer create a very fun and upbeat vibe. Dancing, singing, and meeting people make it a spot for late-night fun.

People are saying

"I loved the talented entertainers at this piano bar."

"You can join locals dancing to all sorts of music."

"The live music here is awesome, especially the piano."

Good to know

1

The Red Piano does not serve food, but you can bring your own.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a seat, especially on busy nights.

3

Thursdays feature comedy night from 7-10 pm in the outdoor venue.

14
Pier Santa Barbara image 1
Tourist attraction

Long wooden pier offers stunning ocean views and a calm vibe. Visitors enjoy fun shops and a museum that blends fun with learning. Activities like fishing and paddleboarding add to the active waterfront recreation.

Clean pier offers fun shops, a museum that is both fun and educational, and plenty of spots for fishing. Ocean, city, and mountain views make walking and relaxing enjoyable for all ages.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view; it was amazing."

"I found lots of fun things to do and relax here."

"The sunset here paints the sky with beautiful, vibrant colors."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes at Pier Santa Barbara.

2

Live music events occur regularly at the pier, especially on weekends.

3

Happy hour specials are available at various restaurants on the pier.

15
ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel image 1

Hostel offers private bunk pods with curtains and power outlets for comfort. Bright spaces and a fire pit patio create a lively yet cozy vibe. Daily events like karaoke night make socializing fun and easy.

Organizing new activities every day makes socializing easy and fun. Events like karaoke night bring people together to share songs from their countries.

People are saying

"You'll feel at home and meet amazing people at breakfast."

"The beds are super comfortable with curtains for privacy."

"The staff makes you feel like family during fun activities."

Good to know

1

The hostel hosts daily events like free breakfast, yoga, and movie nights.

2

Open mic nights and karaoke happen regularly, fostering a social atmosphere.

3

Every night features a different activity, including BBQs and game nights.

16
Enso MMA image 1
Martial arts school

Martial arts school offers well-organized training with a family-oriented atmosphere that balances intensity and kindness. Classes are fun and safe for beginners, keeping sessions engaging. Facilities include a boxing ring and ample mat space for diverse training.

Classes offer a fun and safe environment for beginners with informative instruction. The atmosphere stays engaging and enjoyable throughout each session.

People are saying

"The Mixed Martial Arts community here is so welcoming and motivating."

"The classes here are informative and incredibly fun."

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

Good to know

1

Enso MMA offers classes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Boxing for all skill levels.

2

The gym provides 24/7 access, allowing for flexible training times.

3

The facilities include clean showers and high-quality equipment.

17
Santa Barbara Sportfishing Charters image 1

Spacious boat offers plenty of deck room and a relaxed vibe with gorgeous views and dolphin sightings. Captain Tony ensures consistent catches of rockfish and halibut while keeping trips fun and safe for all ages.

Captain Tony creates a fun atmosphere focused on safety and enjoyment for all skill levels. The trip includes wildlife spotting and plenty of fishing, making it engaging for kids and adults alike.

People are saying

"Captain Tony knows exactly where to find the fish."

"Captain Tony made the day so relaxed and enjoyable for everyone."

"Captain Tony made our fun fishing activities enjoyable for everyone."

Good to know

1

Captain Tony is knowledgeable about local fishing spots and the coastline.

2

The trip includes opportunities to catch various types of fish, including rockfish and halibut.

3

Expect a fair pricing structure for the quality of the fishing experience.

18
The Painted Lemonade image 1
Painting studio

Painting studio offers a relaxed atmosphere that supports fun group activities. Events attract diverse groups, including those with hearing and vision loss, making it truly inclusive. Art parties bring great energy focused on enjoyment over perfection.

A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere creates a fun and creative night. The art party brings a great, fun energy that keeps the focus on enjoyment over perfection.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; Ella inspired our little guests."

"The party artist Ellya was super professional and inspired our guests."

"Ella made our fun activities so personal and engaging."

Good to know

1

The paint and sip night is a creative and social event for groups.

2

The event is suitable for people with varying degrees of hearing and vision loss.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with opportunities for social interaction.

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Santa Barbara, California

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