January 30th, 2015 at 8:30 am
There may be no more romantic town on the Southern California coast than Santa Barbara. From the palm tree-lined beaches to the Spanish Colonial-style architecture to the colorful parks and gardens, romance seems to be in the air everywhere you go.
But beyond the beauty visible to visitors and residents alike are dozens of lesser-known spots ideal for stealing a kiss or just setting the mood for … whatever.
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, many sweethearts will be heading to Santa Barbara for a day or two of coastal closeness. If you’re among them, consider checking out these somewhat off-the-beaten-path places that are sure to stir, if nothing else, fond memories of the town some call the American Riviera.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse Clock Tower:
One of the most beautiful public buildings in America, this city treasure completed in 1929 is the embodiment of Spanish-Moorish architecture. Take the elevator to the third floor and walk up a few steps to the clock tower for a stunning 360-degree view of bright-tile adobes, the Santa Ynez Mountains, palm-fringed shoreline and the Channel Islands. It’s very private and secluded, and a great vantage point for spectacular photos. Free.
Information: www.santabarbaracourthouse.org/sbch/Welcome.html
Douglas Family Preserve:
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January 28th, 2015 at 2:00 pm
What:
Head to downtown Santa Barbara for a scrumptious walking tour. Guests will visit six locations over three hours to sample French pastries, Northern Italian dishes, gourmet cheese, wine, chocolate, and more. Throughout the tour, diners will see beautiful architecture and be provided with interesting historical information. Tours run on select Saturdays and private tours are available for groups of eight or more.
Where:
Downtown Santa Barbara
When:
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January 27th, 2015 at 12:00 pm
Image provided b cinemafestival
What:
Come and join funnyman Steve Carell (“The Office,” “Foxcatcher”) as he brings the funny to Santa Barbara with his unique take on fame and society.
Where:
Arlington Theatre
1317 State St.
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
When:
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January 26th, 2015 at 2:00 pm
Image provided by Jack.Q
What:
Experience a beautiful blend of cultural and contemporary dance in “Then and Now: The Lily Cai Dance Trio” at UCSB. Selections range from the ancient arts of China to the bold contemporary movement of today. Lily Cai’s choreography transforms the dance elements, fans, and ribbons of her Shanghai heritage into a captivating performance by her star dancers. Following the performance, Lily Cai will offer insights into her choreography and artistic process.
Where:
MultiCultural Center (MCC) Theater
Across from the Associated Students offices in the MultiCultural Center building
University of California, Santa Barbara
When:
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January 23rd, 2015 at 9:30 am
This Valentine’s Day (or the day after), get intimate with your sweetie and 46 other romantic souls on a round-trip coastal train ride aboard the magnificently restored 1956 Silver Splendor Vista Dome.
South Coast Railroad Museum is hosting the six-hour private round trip between Amtrak’s Santa Barbara/Goleta stations and San Luis Obispo. Just sit back with your beloved, relax, and enjoy the classic Vista Dome experience, featuring 360-degree views along this beautiful and historic stretch of California coastline. Vista Dome cars are famous for their graceful, glass-enclosed rooftop observation rooms, which provide unparalleled scenic views in all directions. The experience is described as being like a bird in flight, gliding effortlessly just above the coastal bluffs.
The trip is limited to 48 passengers, guaranteeing spots in the 24-seat dome for half the excursion. Those making early reservations have first choice of riding in the dome during the north- or south-bound segments.
Built by the Budd Co. in 1956 as Chicago, Burlington & Quincy No. 4735, the stainless-steel car raced between Chicago and Denver daily until 1980, the last nine years under Amtrak ownership. Originally named Silver Buckle, she was part of the last two complete conventional train sets to be ordered new in the pre-Amtrak era, traveling more than 4.5 million miles.
Passions are sure to run high on this splendid Valentine’s-themed train trip, so conduct yourself accordingly!
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