De La Guerra Plaza, Santa Barbara

De La Guerra Plaza, established in 1853, serves as a vibrant hub for civic events, cultural festivals, and the Old Spanish Days Fiesta. Tall palm trees surround the grassy area, casting shade over benches. The Plaza is home to notable landmarks, including the royal De La Guerra Adobe and the Cota-Knox House, which reflect Spanish colonial and Victorian architecture. Preserved historical buildings provide glimpses into the past, while nearby boutiques and wine-tasting rooms introduce a contemporary element.

The plaza offers a variety of dining and shopping options, including sushi at Kai Sushi Shabu-Shabu, smoothies at Blenders in the Grass, and ice cream at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams. It also hosts community events like Dia de Los Muertos and Las Posadas, often in the Casa de la Guerra courtyard.