Santa Barbara: Taco Tour!

Explore Santa Barbara’s Award-Winning Tacos and Beverages for $145

The Santa Barbara: Taco Tour! offers a flavorful journey through downtown Santa Barbara, known as The American Riviera. For $145 per person and lasting 2.5 hours, this walking tour takes you to five acclaimed taquerias where you’ll sample authentic tacos like Carne Asada, Shrimp, Fajita Chicken, Mushroom, and Queso Birra. It’s a compact, well-paced experience that combines delicious food with insights into Santa Barbara’s vibrant culture and history.

This tour stands out for its inclusion of two complimentary beverages, which could be wine, margaritas, or beer, perfectly pairing with the taco tastings. Guided by an experienced local guide, you get more than just food—you gain fun facts and stories about Santa Barbara’s best spots, making this experience both tasty and educational. The best part? You leave with a special gift from local shops, adding a memorable keepsake from your culinary adventure.

One notable consideration is that while the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, the walking nature means comfortable shoes are recommended. This tour suits food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking a lively, social outing, especially for those with a taste for authentic Mexican-inspired cuisine.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $145 per person for 2.5 hours of food and fun
• Five Award-Winning Tacos: Includes Carne Asada, Shrimp, Fajita Chicken, Mushroom, and Queso Birra
• Beverages Included: Two free drinks — wine, margaritas, or beer
• Expert Guides: Guides share engaging fun facts about Santa Barbara
• Local Gifts: Each guest receives a special gift from local shops
• Accessible: Suitable for most travelers, including wheelchair and stroller users

Starting Point in Downtown Santa Barbara’s Central Scene

The tour begins in downtown Santa Barbara, an area famed for its lively streets and beautiful architecture. As the walking begins, the guide leads guests through the heart of the city, sharing insights into Santa Barbara’s history and cultural highlights. The route is designed to maximize exposure to the city’s most appealing spots, making it a practical and scenic way to explore while sampling some of the best tacos in California.

The walk transitions smoothly from one taqueria to another, with each stop offering a signature taco that’s been recognized for excellence. The tour’s pace allows enough time to savor each bite without feeling rushed, making it suitable for those who prefer a relaxed experience.

Visiting Five Award-Winning Taquerias in Santa Barbara

The core of this taco tour is the visit to five highly regarded taquerias, each noted for its quality and authenticity. These spots are celebrated as the #1 tacos in California according to the LA Times, ensuring high standards for taste and presentation.

Each stop introduces a different taco style, showcasing the variety and ingenuity present in Santa Barbara’s culinary scene. For example, guests enjoy classic Carne Asada tacos alongside seafood options like Shrimp and more inventive choices such as Mushroom or Queso Birra. These offerings highlight the diverse flavors that make Santa Barbara’s taco scene stand out.

Pairing Tacos with Two Complimentary Beverages

One of the tour’s highlights is the inclusion of two free drinks. Guests can choose from wine, margaritas, or beer, depending on their preferences and the offerings at each stop. The beverages are carefully selected to complement the taco flavors, enhancing the tasting experience.

These drinks are more than just refreshers; they add a social element to the tour, encouraging conversation and enjoyment. The pairing elevates the tasting experience, making it feel more like a relaxed food and drink celebration.

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Learning Fun Facts with an Experienced Guide

The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who shares fun facts and stories about Santa Barbara’s history, architecture, and food culture. This storytelling element enriches the experience, providing context and background that transform a simple food tour into an educational outing.

The guide’s friendly demeanor and expertise make the walking tour engaging, ensuring that guests stay interested as they journey through the city’s best taco spots. This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate learning more about their surroundings while enjoying excellent food.

The Special Gift from Local Shops

At the conclusion of the tour, guests receive a special gift from local shops, serving as a memorable token of the experience. This thoughtful touch encourages support for Santa Barbara’s local businesses and leaves guests with a lasting reminder of their culinary adventure.

The gift adds value to the tour, giving a tangible keepsake that symbolizes the city’s vibrant community and craftsmanship.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour’s design makes it accessible for most travelers, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. However, since it involves walking through downtown streets, comfortable shoes are recommended. The timing typically falls in the afternoon, making it suitable for a lunch or early evening outing.

Guests should note that gratuity for the guide is not included, so tipping additional appreciation is customary if satisfied with the service.

Why Choose This Santa Barbara Taco Tour?

This tour offers a balanced mix of delicious food, engaging storytelling, and local culture, all in a manageable 2.5-hour format. It’s perfect for people who want to enjoy Santa Barbara’s culinary scene without committing to a full day of activities. The inclusion of five award-winning tacos and local beverages provides excellent value and variety.

The tour’s positive reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides, with particular praise for their storytelling and local insights. The stops at top-rated taquerias ensure high-quality tasting experiences, making it a worthwhile outing for anyone craving authentic Mexican-inspired cuisine paired with local drinks.

Final Thoughts on the Santa Barbara Taco Tour

In summary, the Santa Barbara: Taco Tour! offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to explore downtown Santa Barbara’s culinary gems. Its affordable price, short duration, and delicious offerings make it appealing for both locals and visitors alike. The two free beverages and local gifts add extra touches that enhance the overall experience.

While it’s primarily focused on food and culture, the tour also provides a relaxed, social atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for chatting and learning. This experience best suits those who want a taste of Santa Barbara’s food scene with a friendly guide leading the way.

Travelers seeking a fun, flavorful, and informative outing on foot will find this taco tour a delightful addition to their Santa Barbara itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The menu mainly features meat and seafood tacos, but specific dietary accommodations are not detailed. It’s best to check in advance if vegetarian options are available.

How many tacos are included?
Guests enjoy five different tacos at different award-winning taquerias as part of the tour.

Are drinks unlimited?
No, the tour includes two complimentary beverages—either wine, margaritas, or beer—per guest.

Can I join the tour with strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring a positive appetite, comfortable shoes, and be prepared to walk through downtown Santa Barbara. Tipping the guide is customary but not included.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, live guides speak English, Polish, and French to accommodate diverse guests.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made with the option to pay later to keep plans flexible.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby