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De la Guerra Plaza

4.6
·491k reviews·Santa Barbara, United States

Historic downtown plaza, a vibrant hub for community events, live music, and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fiesta Weekends

Live music & vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
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press building vista

De la Guerra Plaza

Best Time

Fiesta Weekends

Live music & vibrant atmosphere

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic downtown plaza, a vibrant hub for community events, live music, and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The heart of Santa Barbara's culture, especially during Fiesta, with great music and historic charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Fiesta Schedule Secrets

For the main stage band schedule during Fiesta, check the Old Spanish Days website or grab a copy of The Independent.

🚗 Parking Tips

State Street parking garages are your best bet, but expect crowds during events.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fiesta Performances

Fiesta Performances

Main Stage

Experience the heart of Santa Barbara's culture with live music and dance during local festivals.

Reddit
Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Surrounding Buildings

Admire the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture that defines this charming downtown square.

Reddit
State Street Views

State Street Views

North End of Plaza

Enjoy picturesque views looking up towards the bustling State Street, a classic Santa Barbara scene.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

De la Guerra Plaza is a vibrant hub, especially during local events like Fiesta. Check the Old Spanish Days website for the most accurate band schedules and event timings to catch live music and performances. Reddit

Navigating the Plaza

While the plaza itself is walkable, consider parking options nearby. State Street offers various parking garages and street parking, though it can get busy during peak times and events. Reddit

Best Times

When
Fiesta Weekends
Why
Live music & vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls & photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Take a stroll with us through El Mercado De La Guerra, an outdoor market located in De La Guerra Plaza. Inside, feast on Spanish and Mexican American foods, shop for crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy live entertainment from 11am-10pm, ending today! For a full list of Fiesta happenings this weekend, go to independent.com. | Video and photo credit: Stephanie Gerson #santabarbara#fiesta#oldspanishday...
@sbindependent
74 likes • 2.1K views

🎯 Fiesta Schedule Secrets

For the main stage band schedule during Fiesta, check the Old Spanish Days website or grab a copy of The Independent. Reddit

🚗 Parking Tips

State Street parking garages are your best bet, but expect crowds during events. Reddit

#fiestas #fiestasespanolas #santabarbara #plazadelaguerra #cabrilloblvd #statest
@ivon_nava
47 likes • 3.7K views
Elubia's Kitchen will be at Old Spanish Days Fiesta at the De La Guerra Plaza in Downtown Santa Barbara from August 2-5. Our Food Truck will be at Santa Barbara City College at Mercado de la Playa - August 3 to August 6. 12pm to 10pm Family-friendly, Music, food & merchant vendors, live music and dancing. #sbfiesta2023 #oldspanishdays #fundraiser #ElubiasKitchen #SantaBarbara #Goleta #UCSB #SBCC...
@elubiaskitchen
10 likes • 1.1K views

📸 Capture the Charm

The plaza offers lovely photo ops, especially with the historic buildings and State Street backdrop. Reddit

Elubia's Kitchen will be at Old Spanish Days Fiesta at the De La Guerra Plaza in Downtown Santa Barbara from August 2-5. Our Food Truck will be at Santa Barbara City College at Mercado de la Playa - August 3 to August 6. 12pm to 10pm Family-friendly, Music, food & merchant vendors, live music and dancing. #sbfiesta2023 #oldspanishdays #fundraiser #ElubiasKitchen #SantaBarbara #Goleta #UCSB #SBCC...
@elubiaskitchen
9 likes • 548 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Fiesta Schedule Secrets

For the main stage band schedule during Fiesta, check the Old Spanish Days website or grab a copy of The Independent. Reddit

🚗 Parking Tips

State Street parking garages are your best bet, but expect crowds during events. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The plaza offers lovely photo ops, especially with the historic buildings and State Street backdrop. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

De la Guerra Plaza is a beloved community space, particularly celebrated for its role in local festivals like Fiesta, where it buzzes with live music and cultural events. Visitors appreciate its historic architecture and scenic views of State Street. While generally a pleasant spot, parking can be a significant challenge during peak times and major events.

What People Like

Vibrant Fiesta atmosphere
Historic architecture
Live music performances

What People Dislike

Difficult parking during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

De la Guerra Plaza is centrally located in downtown Santa Barbara. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on nearby State Street. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area, making it convenient to reach. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options along State Street and surrounding blocks. Be aware that parking can become challenging during major events like Fiesta. Reddit

Absolutely! If you're staying or exploring downtown Santa Barbara, De la Guerra Plaza is very walkable and a pleasant destination to reach on foot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

De la Guerra Plaza is a public space and generally free to access. However, specific events held within the plaza, such as Fiesta performances, may require tickets. Reddit

As a public plaza, De la Guerra Plaza is typically open from dawn until dusk. However, access to specific buildings or event areas within the plaza may have their own operating hours. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to simply visit and enjoy De la Guerra Plaza. It's a public square meant for community gathering and enjoyment. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

De la Guerra Plaza is a central gathering spot, often hosting events, live music, and cultural celebrations, especially during Fiesta. It's also a great place to admire the historic architecture and enjoy the downtown atmosphere. Reddit

The plaza is most lively during local events, particularly the annual Fiesta. For the most up-to-date schedule of bands and performances, check the Old Spanish Days website. Reddit

The plaza is surrounded by beautiful examples of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, reflecting Santa Barbara's rich history and aesthetic. Reddit

Yes, the plaza offers excellent photography opportunities, from the historic buildings to the views looking up State Street. It's particularly picturesque during events. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

De la Guerra Plaza can be a fun spot for families, especially during local events like Fiesta. The lively atmosphere, music, and potential for street performers can be engaging for children. Keep an eye on the event schedules for family-friendly performances. Parking can be a challenge, so consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services if you have young children. Reddit

🎶 Music Lovers

If you're a fan of live music, timing your visit to coincide with Fiesta is a must. De la Guerra Plaza's main stage is a focal point for performances, featuring a variety of local and regional artists. Checking the Old Spanish Days website or 'The Independent' newspaper for the band schedule in advance will help you catch your favorite acts. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

De la Guerra Plaza During Fiesta

De la Guerra Plaza truly comes alive during Santa Barbara's annual Fiesta celebration. This historic square transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, featuring live music on its main stage and various cultural performances. If you're planning to attend, it's crucial to check the official Old Spanish Days website or local event listings for the most accurate band schedules and performance times, as these can vary year to year. Reddit Many visitors find that grabbing a copy of 'The Independent,' a local publication, can also provide detailed schedules and insights into who is performing. Reddit The atmosphere is electric, offering a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

Beyond the main stage, the surrounding areas of the plaza often host additional festivities, food vendors, and artisan stalls during Fiesta. It's a prime location to experience the heart of the celebration. While the plaza itself is free to enter, be aware that some specific events or seating areas might require tickets. Planning your visit around the scheduled performances will help you make the most of the lively ambiance and enjoy the diverse musical talent on display. Reddit

Architectural Significance and Views

The De la Guerra Plaza is not just a gathering space; it's a showcase of Santa Barbara's distinctive architectural heritage. The buildings surrounding the plaza are prime examples of the Spanish Colonial Revival style, characterized by their red tile roofs, stucco exteriors, and ornate detailing. This architectural theme is a hallmark of Santa Barbara, contributing to its unique and picturesque charm. Reddit Taking a moment to appreciate these structures offers a glimpse into the city's historical development and aesthetic sensibilities.

Furthermore, the plaza offers captivating views, particularly looking north towards the iconic State Street. This perspective provides a classic Santa Barbara vista, blending the historic plaza with the vibrant energy of the city's main thoroughfare. Reddit Photographers and visitors alike will find ample opportunities to capture the essence of downtown Santa Barbara from this vantage point. Whether you're visiting during a bustling event or a quiet weekday morning, the architectural beauty and scenic outlook make De la Guerra Plaza a noteworthy destination.

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