For almost 200 years De La Guerra Plaza has been a central meeting place for community events. In 1818 José de la Guerra built the Casa, de la Guerra across the street as his home which became was the social, political, and cultural center of Santa Barbara during the Mexican period.

In the 1990s, the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation restored the building to its original appearance, and now operates it as a historic house museum.

De La Guerra Plaza continues to be a favorite gathering point for civic rallies and is ground zero for the best food during Santa Barbara's annual fiesta celebrations.

New local Santa Barbara shopping boutiques have started to spring up along the perimeter of the Plaza including The Riviera Towel Company and Lululemon on State st side. New Wine Tasting Rooms have recently set up shop including Cebada Wine and Wine Therapy, which offer relaxed atmospheres. On the State Street Side of the Plaza you can get great Sushi at Kai Sushi Shabu-Shabu, get a healthy smoothie at Blenders in the Grass, or indulge at McConnell's Fine Ice Creams of Santa Barbara.

Casa de la Guerra is a popular site for community and private events. Each year SBTHP produces free educational programs for the community in the Casa Courtyard including Dia de Los Muertos craft day and Las Posadas.