My family and I decided to stop at the Presidio Park in Santa Barbara. Well I have to say it was kind of interesting, it wasn't very well organized. I'm not sorry that we stopped as the price of admission was free. If I had to pay admission I can tell you I wouldn't even stop.

A work in progress, the presidio presents a lot of interesting information about early Spanish settlement in the area. One building is the second oldest in California and the exhibits convey a lot of detail about daily life. Definitely worth the visit as it stands now, I hope the historical society is able to fulfill its vision of completing restoration.... More

I liked the realistic reconstruction and the ongoing excavation of the site. When I was there, the site was being reconstructed and discussing the way this was done with those on-site was particularly interesting.

If you are a history buff, the parent of a 4th grader studying California history, or just looking for a way to spend an hour is Santa Barbara, the Presidio is a great place for you. Take the self guided tour and learn about how the Spanish worked their way up the coast setting up missions ad military bases, learn... More

This is the pride and joy of the Historical Society. It takes presidence over all else historical in Santa Barbara, including the original Chinatown which is just across the street.

Here is where the present day city of Santa Barbara began back in 1782. This was the military center (one of three in California). It housed and protected the first Spanish/Mexican soldiers and settlers. You can be transported back to that time when you visit the Presidio. The buildings are just as they were including one of the oldest buildings... More

was very informative both as to the history and the archeology involved in digging up the artifacts. I don't think I would have been brave enough to live there when it awas first built!

This humble site is mainly reconstructions built from foundations of the Spanish military fort that once stood over several blocks of the now city. It is clear this National park can one day be as important to the city as the Mission if the dedicated volunteers have their way. It only takes about an hour to see if you read... More

Though the place was still being (re)constructed, the standing buildings and expositions give you a great sense of what it was like to live and breathe (the rooms have that aroma of adobes) during the time the Spanish and Mexican owned California. The small church is also well reconstructed, and displays colorful motifs. Overall, the kids enjoyed the place much.... More