The Botanic Gardens are just a couple of miles from the Mission and provide a nice feel for the natural habitat of the area. There is a nice explanation of the water system and the role it played for the Mission and Chumash Indians. Plenty of succulents, redwoods, and the magnificent manzanitas for avid gardeners.

its a short but sweet walk on one side and as much as you want to explore on the other side. i went in late october but would love to see when the desert pants are in bloom.

Put on your sneakers, and come walk the trails that meander through beautifully landscaped horticultural displays. You'll learn about indigenous plants in the area, and micro-climates that define the natural beauty of Santa Barbara.

Coming from Europe, seeing entirely different plants adapted to the climate is fascinating, and many are labelled. The walks are pleasant, go on the trails around the edge to get good views of the garden and the mountains behind, walk quietly and you may see a family of quails. The redwood section, for me was the best section as I visited in the autumn when much of the garden is dry; cool and pleasant on a hot day. Still signs of the fire some years ago, for me this put the place in context. Not large, but a good place for a short walk.

Visit every year but don't always get the opportunity to have a good walk around. Good to see all the re-growth after the devastating fires of 3 1/2 years ago. as with most Santa Barbara museums etc. there is no cafe but there is a vending machine close to the entrance.