Formerly called the Historic Theatre District, the newly renamed ARTS District in Santa Barbara, California, is a vibrant cultural neighborhood that invites visitors to explore a wide range of arts, history, and culinary experiences.
Throughout the district you’ll find historic performance venues, including the century-old Granada Theatre and the iconic Arlington Theatre, both central to the area’s performing arts scene. The Tamsen Gallery recently relocated to the ARTS District, showcasing works by artist Robert W. Firestone. On 1st Thursday Art Walks, galleries and museums across the neighborhood stay open late for new exhibitions, receptions, and artist meet-and-greets.
Tamsen Gallery © Visit Santa Barbara
The ARTS District is also a destination for fashion and design. Ace Rivington, founded by former Guess Jeans designer Beau Lawrence, offers men’s apparel with a refined aesthetic. The global fashion collective KAAREM maintains one of its two U.S. locations here, bringing contemporary, elevated womenswear to the neighborhood.
Food and local produce are central to the ARTS District experience. The Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market, held on Saturdays at the district’s edge, features seasonal produce from regional growers and a lively community atmosphere. For diverse dining, Santa Barbara Public Market serves as the city’s only food hall, bringing together local vendors and artisanal food concepts. Theatergoers often choose Opal Restaurant and Bar for pre- or post-show dining, while modern Indian cuisine and an approachable wine program can be found at Bibi Ji, which recently opened in the neighborhood.
Bibi Ji © Visit Santa Barbara
The ARTS District also hosts major cultural events. The Santa Barbara International Film Festival, celebrating its 40th year in 2025, takes place Feb. 4–15 and features hundreds of screenings, including international premieres and films that often garner awards attention. Between ongoing gallery programming, historic theaters, boutiques, markets, and a growing roster of notable restaurants, the ARTS District offers a concentrated, walkable mix of culture and commerce that reflects Santa Barbara’s creative spirit.