Is Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History worth visiting?

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History showcases the natural wonders of the Central Coast, offering engaging exhibits and educational programs across various scientific disciplines. Its Sea Center on Stearns Wharf provides an immersive ocean experience, while the main campus explores terrestrial environments.

What are the best things to see and do at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History?

Key attractions at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History include the Gladwin Planetarium, several outdoor exhibits, and rotating special exhibitions. The Sea Center, located on Stearns Wharf, provides an interactive marine science experience where guests can get close to local marine life.

What are the opening hours at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History?

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and the Sea Center are open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Please check the official site for date-specific hours before your visit.

Is Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is suitable for all ages, offering educational programs and experiences for everyone.

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

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Last reviewed June 2026 by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

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About Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Explore a canyon-set natural history museum that runs from dinosaur bones to the night sky.

Nestled in a scenic canyon, this museum connects visitors with the biodiversity and natural heritage of the Santa Barbara region across both indoor and outdoor spaces.

What you'll see and do - Browse exhibits spanning anthropology, biology, geology, and astronomy - Take in a show at the Gladwin Planetarium and explore several outdoor exhibits and rotating special exhibitions - Observe live butterflies and view the cosmos through powerful telescopes during programs - Extend your trip to the Sea Center on Stearns Wharf for an interactive marine science experience with local marine life

Attraction Details

Facilities

Toilets
Gift Shop
Baby Changing
Food Options
Parking
Pushchair Friendly
Wheelchair Friendly

Events at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Annual Members’ Party
May 29
Celebrate your support of nature and science with a fun and festive evening honoring our extended family of Members.
Storytime in the Backyard
May 30 – Ongoing
Join us for fun and learning in the outdoors as Museum staff and volunteers share a brief story of nature and science at the stump circle in the Museum Backyard.
Storytime at the Sea Center
May 31 – Ongoing
Join us for fun, learning, and a splash of ocean magic as Sea Center staff and volunteers share stories of the sea in the middle of our Dive In exhibit.
Shark Sundays
May 31 – Ongoing
Learn about shark biology from our experts as they make sure the animals in Shark Cove at the Sea Center are healthy and satisfied.
A Natural History of Human Longevity
June 1
UCSB Professor Michael Gurven discusses the evolution of human longevity, relying on the anthropological study of subsistence societies.
World Oceans Day - Free Admission at the Sea Center
June 6
Celebrate World Oceans Day at the Sea Center on Stearns Wharf with free admission and fun opportunities.
Storytime at the Sea Center
June 6 – Ongoing
Join us for fun, learning, and a splash of ocean magic as Sea Center staff and volunteers share stories of the sea in the middle of our Dive In exhibit.
Storytime in the Backyard
June 6 – Ongoing
Join us for fun and learning in the outdoors as Museum staff and volunteers share a brief story of nature and science at the stump circle in the Museum Backyard.
Storytime at the Sea Center
June 7 – Ongoing
Join us for fun, learning, and a splash of ocean magic as Sea Center staff and volunteers share stories of the sea in the middle of our Dive In exhibit.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.

Best time to visit

Arrive within the first hour of opening for the shortest queues and best photo light.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Onsite or nearby parking available at 2559 Puesta del Sol.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

2559 Puesta del Sol, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

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Last updated 6/23/2026