Santa Barbara’s drinking tours offer two standout experiences we love. The hands-on Chocolate Bar Workshop at Menchaca Chocolates lets you create your own bars while learning about single-origin cacao – a sweet, educational treat that typically runs 1-4 hours. My favorite is the downtown Craft Beer Walking Tour, which hits three excellent local breweries. You’ll sample fresh brews while getting the inside scoop on Santa Barbara’s beer scene. Both tours deliver authentic, local experiences that go beyond typical tourist offerings. Let’s explore these top drinking tours in detail…
Good To Know
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The Craft Beer Walking Tour in Santa Barbara offers a 3-hour experience visiting three unique craft breweries with tastings and education on the local beer culture.
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Menchaca Chocolates in Santa Barbara provides a flexible 1-4 hour chocolate bar workshop where participants can craft personalized chocolate bars with a variety of toppings.
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The Craft Beer Walking Tour is highly rated at 5/5 and is accessible for non-drinkers and individuals with physical limitations, providing a unique way to explore Santa Barbara’s craft beer scene.
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The Chocolate Bar Workshop at Menchaca Chocolates is also highly rated at 5/5 and is praised for its fun and welcoming atmosphere, making it an engaging activity for chocolate enthusiasts and creative individuals.
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Both the Craft Beer Walking Tour and the Chocolate Bar Workshop offer a personalized and educational experience, catering to a range of interests and preferences in Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara: Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop
A popular activity for chocolate enthusiasts visiting Santa Barbara is the Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop offered by Menchaca Chocolates. This 1-4 hour experience allows participants to craft high-quality, healthy chocolate with vegan options.
Attendees can create personalized chocolate bars using 60% dark, oat milk, and flavored white chocolates, choosing from 30 toppings to customize their creations.
The workshop also includes designing and painting a wooden box to store the handmade chocolates. Participants learn about single-origin cacao bean flavor profiles and enjoy samples of Menchaca Chocolates and Cacao Husk Tea.
The workshop operates rain or shine and is wheelchair accessible, though it’s not suitable for children under 7. With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 13 reviews, the Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop is praised for its fun and welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
A reserve now and pay later option is available for flexible travel plans.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop Review
Book now: Check availability
Santa Barbara: Craft Beer Walking Tour
For those seeking a more spirited adventure in Santa Barbara, the Craft Beer Walking Tour provides an engaging and informative exploration of the city’s thriving beer scene. Priced at $125 per person, this 3-hour tour takes small groups of up to 8 participants to three unique craft breweries, where they can enjoy included tastings and learn about the history and culture behind Santa Barbara’s burgeoning beer industry.
Beyond the beer, the tour also highlights the city’s vibrant downtown hotspots, including the Funk Zone and State Street. Participants can opt to purchase lunch featuring fresh local California cuisine to complement their beer tasting experience.
With a 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews, the tour receives high praise for its knowledgeable and fun guides, as well as its accessibility for non-drinkers and those with physical limitations.
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply seeking an engaging way to explore Santa Barbara, this craft beer walking tour offers an enjoyable and informative experience.
Read our full review: Santa Barbara: Craft Beer Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Bars to Visit in Santa Barbara?
The best bars to visit in Santa Barbara include The Lark, The Brewhouse, and Casa Oaxaca. These establishments offer a diverse selection of craft cocktails, local brews, and authentic Mexican cuisine in a lively and inviting atmosphere.
Where Can I Find the Most Unique Cocktails in the City?
Visitors seeking unique cocktails in Santa Barbara can explore the city’s trendiest bars, like the Lark and The Lark Cocktail Bar, which offer innovative, locally-sourced libations made by skilled mixologists. Many establishments also feature craft cocktails and seasonal specials.
Do Any of the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Venues?
Many drinking tours in Santa Barbara offer transportation, allowing visitors to sample unique cocktails without the hassle of driving. This can be a convenient and responsible way to explore the city’s vibrant bar scene.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Craft Beer Walking Tour?
There are typically age restrictions for craft beer walking tours, with many requiring participants to be 21 or older. Guests should check the specific tour details to ensure they meet the age requirements before booking.
Can I Customize the Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop?
Participants can typically customize the chocolate bar and art box making workshop to their preferences. The workshop allows them to select ingredients and designs to create personalized treats and crafts during the experience.
The Sum Up
Santa Barbara offers a variety of engaging drinking tours. The Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop allows visitors to indulge in creative confections, while the Craft Beer Walking Tour provides an opportunity to explore the city’s thriving local brewery scene. Whether you’re in the mood for artisanal treats or craft brews, Santa Barbara has a drinking tour to suit your tastes.