Free to all on the last Sunday of every month
I grew up growing to this museum. It's the perfect size for little kids and families. You will learn about the girl in "Island of the Blue Dolphins" and much more Native American history. The rocks and gemstones room has a cool display where you can see the gems light up in black light. There's a rattlesnake exhibit by the gift shop where kids press a button and the rattle shakes. The bug room is notable for its hands-on displays. Don't forget to go out back!! There's a lovely bridge over a creek and nature trail, plus an a fossil dig site. The museum is surrounded by oak trees and beautiful flowers. The gift shop has great items relating back to the natural history of the area. Adults will feel relaxed and the kids will be entertained! It's stood the test of time and is one of the few places that lives up to my childhood memories.
The Santa Barbara Mission and the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens are very nearby and make for a great day of exploring rich in California history and science.
It made our children think of this beautiful land,and universe.As an opportunity to explore more as they become an adult.to research an career choice.and give them the inspiration to become anything they want to.amaze them,yet entertain them.inspire and excite,the joy of learning,new facts.of natural history ,and planets.
The year we studied about birds in school, we happened to visit this museum. Imagine my surprise as I walked into a room that was like walking into a living bird book. Every bird catalogued into the field guide was there, perched on a branch or with it's feet in the water. They were grouped into their families as they would be in the book; finches, sparrows, flycatchers, etc. It was amazing to see them all.
The rest of the museum was equally good, if small. But the size of it made for a perfect afternoon of visiting with our kids.
The Santa Barbara Natural history museum is a great museum with special events, large animals (stuffed bears, wolves, deer, etc), local plants, history on indians, and great outdoor space for a little hiking/exploring in the back. Think very, very small Academy Science museum. I believe your SF Academy of Science card will get you in free. Check before you go. Located near the SB Mission.
The museum has exhibits on early Native American tribesas well as animals, birds, insects, plants, minerals, marine science, and geology.
The planetarium hosts impressive star shows. Call (805) 682–3224 for a schedule.