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 29th, 2015 at 10:00 am
Looking for a piece of art that gets noticed inside or outside your home, office, or even office building? Los Angeles-based metal sculptor James Hill could have what you have in mind.
From graceful and whimsical to bold and enduring, Hill’s installations can be found in private collections and public spaces around California. Actor Ed Harris and Google co-founder Sergey Brin have one. So does Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, among other medical facilities in the area.
Originally from Claremont, 52-year-old Hill specializes in steel, stainless-steel and bronze commissions he builds solo in his studio at the Brewery Art Complex in downtown L.A., touted as the world’s largest artist-in-residence community with about 320 spaces in 20 buildings.
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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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