The Hotel Santa Barbara has been a shimmering ribbon, tightly woven into the tapestry of our town’s history since 1876. When the Santa Barbara Hotel, as it was known at the time, was taken down by the 1925 earthquake, the owners wasted no time rebuilding and rebranding. They christened the new spot, Saint Barbara. Even with its holy name, the hotel retained just enough rebellion to keep the good times rolling, despite the onslaught of prohibition. A secret stash of liquor and under-the-radar gaming room were just a few of the hotel’s mischievous amenities.
This same celebratory spirit continues in the recent remodel of the 75-key boutique hotel. With its 2021 acquisition by the Geronimo Hospitality Group, the well-loved, primely located spot now has a stunning top-to-bottom modern yet charming renovation to complement its rich heritage. New neutral-toned and thoughtfully curated furniture, new carpeting, freshly painted walls, luxurious bedding, and a slew of amenities are just a few of the perks of this State Street hub.
My parents recently stayed there, and on the morning of her departure, my mom gushed, “Out of all the places we’ve stayed in Santa Barbara, this one made it feel like a real vacation.” I couldn’t agree more, especially for visitors who are looking to park their cars for the weekend and experience our town's vibrant cultural opportunities all by foot. The prime location in the thick of State Street, makes it an ideal spot for vacationers to experience the fabulous dining, excellent museums, and various concert experiences in the thriving Arts District, or in the local talent performing at one of our beloved craft breweries.
