Kid Friendly Activities

Question

Heading to Santa Barbara for a few days with our 7 year old daughter and interested in knowing the top activities and hang outs!

Answer

Santa Barbara is a wonderful destination for families with kids, offering a mix of outdoor activities, educational experiences, and fun attractions suitable for a 7-year-old. The city is very walkable, has beautiful beaches, and plenty of kid-friendly spots.

Top Kid-Friendly Activities and Attractions:

Santa Barbara Zoo: Compact but charming, great for young kids to see animals up close. There are interactive exhibits and a miniature train ride which is a big hit with children.
Stearns Wharf: Iconic pier with shops, ice cream, and restaurants. Kids enjoy spotting sea lions and watching boats in the harbor. It’s also a good place for a short stroll and taking photos.
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History: Offers hands-on exhibits and a Discovery Center perfect for children. The outdoor area has walking trails with native wildlife.
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation: A science and tech museum designed for kids with interactive exhibits. Very engaging for curious minds and fun for adults too.
Beach Time: East Beach and West Beach are family-friendly with gentle waves. Bring a kite, sand toys, or just enjoy a picnic. The harbor area also offers calm waters.

Additional Fun Activities:

Santa Barbara Carousel at Chase Palm Park: Classic carousel ride with nearby playgrounds and picnic areas.
Lotusland or Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: If your daughter enjoys nature, short guided tours or walking paths can be magical for exploring unique plants.
Ferry or Harbor Boat Rides: Short cruises around the harbor can be fun for kids, offering a chance to see sea life and learn about the coast.
Biking along Cabrillo Boulevard: Rent bikes or surreys to ride along the beachfront paths, an easy and scenic activity suitable for families.

Tips:

Many restaurants near the waterfront and downtown offer kid-friendly menus.
Start mornings early at popular attractions to avoid crowds.
Pack sunscreen, hats, and water for outdoor activities as it can be sunny and warm in Santa Barbara even in spring.

With this mix of educational, outdoor, and just-for-fun activities, a few days in Santa Barbara should be both enjoyable and memorable for your 7-year-old.

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