Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Activity Overview

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is the oldest museum in Santa Barbara, California. It features detailed dioramas of numerous birds, mammals, and habitats, as well as exhibitions dedicated to marine life, geology, Native American tribes, and natural history prints. The museum also operates Gladwin Planetarium, which is used for live planetarium shows, and a Sea Center at Stearns Wharf which contains interactive exhibits and hands-on encounters with sea creatures. It's a great attraction for families who want to learn and explore the wonders of the natural world.

Things to Do

• Explore the exhibition halls, where you'll see dozens of fascinating bird, insect, mammal, and marine species in beautiful dioramas.
• Check out the Maximus Gallery, where you can view antique natural history art.
• Learn about native cultures by viewing the Chumash Indian exhibit.
• Visit Gladwin Planetarium for an awe-inspiring journey through space at a planetarium show.
• Don't miss the Sea Center, where you can see marine life and do fun-filled educational activities with your child.

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Insider Tips

• Attend a family program at the museum - they include a fossil festival, an owl program, and a beach cleanup day.
• If you plan to visit the Sea Center and the Museum of Natural History, you can save money by purchasing an SB Nature Pass, which includes unlimited admission to both attractions fro two days.
• Check out the museum's teen programs, which include volunteering opportunities and teen science classes focused on topics like zoology, astronomy, and marine biology.