In short
- General entry to the courthouse is 100% free.
- Access to the 85-foot El Mirador clock tower costs nothing.
- Daily docent-led walking tours are free of charge.
In this article
Visiting this active government building is highly budget-friendly. You can explore the historic grounds, climb the clock tower, and take a guided tour without spending a dime. Because it is a working courthouse, all visitors must pass through security screening.
Is it free to visit the Santa Barbara Courthouse?
Yes, visiting the Santa Barbara County Courthouse is completely free.
There are no admission fees to enter the main building or walk the outdoor grounds. Visitors must pass through an airport-style security screening with metal detectors at the main entrance. Large backpacks can delay this process.
Do you need tickets for the El Mirador clock tower?
No, access to the 85-foot El Mirador clock tower is free.
You can climb the stairs or take the elevator to the observation deck for 360-degree views of the city. Extendable tripods and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited in the tower. The clearest views usually happen between April and October.
How much are docent-led tours?
The official docent-led walking tours are completely free.
These 1-hour tours are available to the public. They start at 10:30 AM Monday through Friday, and at 2:00 PM every day. The tours cover the rich history and architecture of the 1929 building.
Is the Bisno Schall Clock Gallery free?
Yes, entry to the Bisno Schall Clock Gallery is free during its limited open hours.
You can view the restored 1929 Seth Thomas tower clock mechanism at no cost. The gallery operates only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:45 AM to 12:05 PM.
How much does parking cost at the courthouse?
You can park near the courthouse for free for a limited time.
City Lot 7 is adjacent to the courthouse and provides 75 minutes of free parking. You can also find 2-hour free street parking on the surrounding downtown blocks.
Are there paid tours of the courthouse?
Private city tours that stop at the courthouse will charge a fee.
Many guided Santa Barbara city tours include the courthouse on their route. These walking, driving, or trolley tours require paid tickets. Prices are from platform rates and change often.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need a reservation for the Santa Barbara Courthouse tour?
No, you do not need reservations for the free, public docent-led walking tours.
Is the Santa Barbara Courthouse open on weekends?
Building hours vary; confirm with the Courthouse Docent Council (805-962-6464). Docent tours run weekdays at 10:30 AM and daily at 2:00 PM. Docent tours run weekdays at 10:30 AM and daily at 2:00 PM.
Is there parking at the Santa Barbara Courthouse?
Yes, adjacent City Lot 7 offers 75 minutes of free parking. The surrounding streets also offer 2-hour free parking.
