Thanksgiving Trip｜Los Angeles → Santa Barbara 🌅

This was already my fourth visit to Santa Barbara, and based on all my trips, here’s a tried-and-true one-day itinerary. If you only have 24 hours, follow this — it won’t disappoint! 😉 ☀️ 8:30 AM – Brunch with a Danish Twist Start at The Andersen’s Danish Bakery & Restaurant, a beloved local brunch spot with cozy, retro vibes. ✨ Tip: Try to sit outside — morning sun on the table + a gentle breeze along State Street = pure bliss. Across the street is Dune Coffee Roasters (2025 U.S. Coffee Champ! ☕🏆), perfect for grabbing a cup to enjoy with your meal. 📍 1106 State St, Santa Barbara 🌞 Late Morning – “The Most Beautiful Government Building in the U.S.” Visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, built by Spanish settlers 160 years ago. Explore stunning spiral staircases, grand halls, colorful stained glass, and murals. Don’t miss the giant pendulum inside the clock tower — and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and ocean! 🌊 📍 1100 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara ⛪️ Early Afternoon – Iconic Pink Mission A short drive to Santa Barbara Old Mission, one of California’s top 10 historic churches. Its soft pink façade 💓 stands gracefully on a hill, surrounded by green lawns — amazing for photos! 📍 2201 Laguna St, Santa Barbara ⛵️ Afternoon – Historic Wharf & Fresh Seafood Head to Stearns Wharf (built in 1872), one of California’s oldest wooden piers. You can drive right onto the wharf! Enjoy a seaside lunch here — seafood with a view. 🦞 📍 22 State St, Santa Barbara 🍦 Sweet Break – Must-Try Ice Cream Stop by McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams — their strawberry flavor is legendary! 🍓 📍 728 State St, Santa Barbara 🏠 Late Afternoon – Architectural Gem Discover the whimsical work of local architect Jeff Shelton, often called “Santa Barbara’s Gaudi.” His Spanish Revival-style buildings are handmade masterpieces full of charm and craftsmanship. 📍 531 Chapala St, Santa Barbara Wrap up your day with a sunset stroll — Santa Barbara’s golden hour is pure magic! ✨ #SantaBarbara #DayTripFromLA #CaliforniaCoast #HistoricLandmarks #BrunchSpot #MissionStyle #SeasideEats #IceCreamLover #ArchitectureWalk #TravelGuide #CentralCoast #ThanksgivingTravel #PacificViews