Santa Barbara: Taco Tour!

Explore the vibrant flavors of Santa Barbara’s taco scene with the Taco Tour, a delightful culinary adventure. This 2.5-hour experience takes you to five award-winning taquerias, where you’ll sample mouthwatering tacos and enjoy two complimentary beverages. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll stroll through the picturesque streets, soaking in local history and culture. But the real question is – are you ready to tantalize your taste buds and uncover the hidden gems of this coastal city?

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Key Points

A 2.5-hour taco tour in Santa Barbara that visits five award-winning taquerias, offering samples of mouthwatering tacos and complementary beverages.
The tour includes a guided walking experience through picturesque downtown streets, providing insights into the city’s history and architecture.
Guests can savor a variety of taco fillings, such as carne asada, shrimp, fajita chicken, mushroom, and queso birria.
Two complimentary beverages, including margaritas, wine, or craft beers, are included to enhance the overall culinary experience.
The tour concludes with a special gift from local shops, such as handcrafted ceramic mugs, artisanal salsa sets, or tote bags.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Taco Tour in Santa Barbara offers a 2.5-hour experience that starts at 321 Motor Way and concludes at 525 State St.

The Taco Tour in Santa Barbara offers a 2.5-hour experience that starts at 321 Motor Way and concludes at 525 State St.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and has a live guide available in English.

Explorers will visit five award-winning taquerias, sampling tacos like carne asada, shrimp, and queso birria.

Two complimentary beverages, such as margaritas or craft beers, are included.

The guided walking tour also provides insights into Santa Barbara’s history and culture.

At the end, participants receive a special gift from local shops.

The tour is priced from €128.05 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Looking for more options in Santa Barbara? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Explore the Taquerias

What makes these five award-winning taquerias so special?

Carne Asada offers melt-in-your-mouth steak, seasoned to perfection. Shrimp tantalizes with its zesty citrus marinade. Fajita Chicken delivers a smoky, spicy kick. Mushroom surprises with its rich, earthy flavors.

And Queso Birria delights with its savory, slow-cooked beef.

On the taco tour, guests will savor these local culinary gems, each with its own unique twist on traditional Mexican fare. Complemented by two included beverages, this tasting experience immerses visitors in Santa Barbara’s vibrant food scene and showcases why it’s considered the American Riviera.

Complimentary Beverages

Two complimentary beverages are included with the taco tour experience. Guests can choose from margaritas, wine, or craft beers to accompany the delicious tacos.

This adds to the overall enjoyment of the tour, allowing participants to savor the flavors of Santa Barbara’s vibrant food scene. The beverages complement the tacos perfectly, enhancing the culture and making the taco tour a well-rounded culinary adventure.

Whether opting for a refreshing margarita or a local craft brew, the complimentary drinks elevate the overall taco tour experience.

Guided Walking Tour

As guests embark on the taco tour, a live tour guide accompanies them, providing insightful commentary on the history and culture of Santa Barbara.

The guided walking tour leads visitors through the picturesque downtown streets, known as The American Riviera. Along the way, the guide shares fun facts about the city’s past and its vibrant present.

Guests have the opportunity to admire the stunning architecture, lush greenery, and charming plazas that make Santa Barbara a beloved destination.

This curated tour ensures visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the local community and its rich tapestry of traditions.

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Fun Facts and Culture

While strolling through the charming streets of Santa Barbara, guests uncover the city’s rich cultural heritage. The tour guide shares captivating stories about the city’s history, from its Spanish colonial roots to its evolution as a thriving hub of art and architecture.

Visitors learn about the distinct Mediterranean-style architecture, the iconic courthouse, and the vibrant arts scene that has earned Santa Barbara the nickname "The American Riviera."

Throughout the tour, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s unique blend of Spanish, Mexican, and American influences that have shaped its distinctive character and appeal.

There's plenty more to explore in Santa Barbara

Special Gift From Local Shops

At the conclusion of the taco tour, guests are treated to a special gift from local shops in Santa Barbara. The tour organizers have partnered with renowned local artisans and businesses to curate a unique souvenir selection. Guests can choose from the following options:

| Item | Description | Price |

|——|————-|——-|

| Handcrafted Ceramic Mug | Locally made, vibrant design | €25 |

| Artisanal Salsa Set | Three flavors in reusable jars | €18 |

| Signature Santa Barbara Tote Bag | Eco-friendly, woven design | €15 |

| Gourmet Spice Blend | Blend of regional seasonings | €12 |

| Illustrated Postcard Set | Scenes of Santa Barbara landmarks | €8 |

This final touch leaves participants with a lasting memento of their taco tour experience.

Booking Information

The tour is priced from €128.05 per person.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also choose the reserve now & pay later option.

The tour provides excellent value, offering an extensive culinary experience, guided walking tour, and a special gift from local shops.

It’s an ideal choice for food lovers and culture enthusiasts seeking to discover the vibrant flavors and picturesque streets of Santa Barbara.

Booking early is recommended to secure a spot, as this popular tour is likely to sell out quickly.

Post-Tour Experience

After the tour concludes at the last taco restaurant on the itinerary, guests can choose to stay longer and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Baja Sharkzee.

This optional post-tour experience allows visitors to further enjoy Santa Barbara’s lively food scene. Guests can savor additional tacos, sip on refreshing drinks, and soak in the local culture.

The tour may have ended, but the culinary adventure continues for those who wish to linger. This flexible option caters to a variety of interests and preferences, ensuring a well-rounded taco tour experience in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the tour. The tour details state it is wheelchair accessible, but do not mention any accommodation for pets. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the 2.5-hour taco tour experience.

Do I Need to Make a Reservation for a Private Group?

Yes, you’ll need to make a reservation for a private group tour. The tour operator recommends booking in advance to ensure availability and accommodate your group size. Private tours can be customized to meet your needs.

Are Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available for the Tacos?

Yes, the tour offers vegetarian and vegan taco options, including a mushroom taco and a queso birria taco. The guide can accommodate any dietary needs with advance notice when booking the tour.

Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?

Yes, participants are welcome to take photos and videos during the tour. The tour guide encourages capturing the vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering tacos at the featured taqueria stops along the way.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is a flat rate of €128.05 per person, with no reduced pricing available for specific age groups or student status.

The Sum Up

The Taco Tour offers a delightful culinary adventure through Santa Barbara’s vibrant flavors. Visitors can savor mouthwatering tacos, enjoy complimentary beverages, and learn about the city’s history and culture. The guided walking tour culminates with a special gift from local artisans, making it a memorable experience to cherish.