Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Santa Barbara - Atlas Obscura

Unusual
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in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California

Lotusland

Acres of natural wonders left behind by a socialite-turned-gardener.

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Santa Barbara, California

Knapp’s Castle

The ruins of the castle that chemicals built.

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Added by leiris

Santa Barbara, California

Whale House

This stunning sea creature-shaped home blends into the landscape like a fantasy villa.

Evan Nicole Brown

Added by Evan Nicole Brown

Santa Barbara, California

Franceschi Park

The home of one of California's most important horticulturalists wilts amidst a lovely park.

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Added by KirstenCunningham

Are we missing something unusual in Santa Barbara?

Isla Vista, California

AlloSphere

360-degree virtual reality chamber physically immerses scientists into their data.

anhie

8 miles from Santa Barbara

Carpinteria, California

Wardholme Torrey Pine

At 130 years old and 126 feet tall, it is the largest known example of the rare Torrey pine tree.

jondi letnap

Added by jondi letnap

10 miles from Santa Barbara

Carpinteria, California

Carpinteria Harbor Seal Preserve

Happy harbor seals frolic and snooze on this warm, sandy stretch of coast.

jondi letnap

Added by jondi letnap

10 miles from Santa Barbara

Atlas Obscura Trips

Dark Skies, Desert Beasts: A Night Photography Workshop in Borrego Springs, California

May 7—May 10, 2019

Journey deep into the desert of Southern California to explore and photograph the Dark Sky Sculptural Oasis of Borrego Springs.

Explore Santa Barbara, California

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Brocio wants to go to Knapp’s Castle

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