Santa Barbara Hotel Guide - Historic Hotels in Santa Barbara, California

Tourists love the rich history they discover on a trip to Santa Barbara. And while you’re here, you can visit the major shopping area and scenic seaside. And also relish a stop at the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Based on our travel knowledge, Harbor House Inn is a top hotel on Expedia for those interested in history, and it features free parking and free WiFi. Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a short 4-minute drive away. A couple of other options close to historic sites include Sandpiper Lodge and Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach.

In Santa Barbara, you’ll find 1138 hotels bookable on Expedia though not many historic hotels to choose from.

Santa Barbara is notable for landmarks like Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Mission Santa Barbara and Presidio Santa Barbara. Cultural venues include Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Arlington Theater and Lobero Theater. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Santa Barbara Historical Museum and Santa Barbara Bowl.

By booking a historic hotel, guests can sleep someplace that has an official historic designation. A palace, castle, grand home or even an old police station, pub, lodge or skyscraper can be considered a historic hotel as long as it has special significance. Traditional architecture and period features are often found within the guestrooms or public spaces of these historic hotels in Santa Barbara, giving a sense of history.

“Heritage hotel” is more common in Asia and Europe, wheareas the term “historic hotel” is more commonly used in the U.S. overall though the terms are similar. The architecture and building of historic hotels are generally the most important aspect. For a heritage hotel, mainly, it’s cultural value along with how it shaped the community.

Hotel interiors feature the modern conveniences and safety features you expect to find, but every effort is made to preserve the historic aspects and traditions. Smart TVs, WiFi, updated bathroom facilities and the popular amenities found at a contemporary hotel will also be available in a historic hotel. Rest assured that when you select a historic hotel in Santa Barbara, you won’t find yourself staying at a place that’s uncomfortable or rundown.