Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum wedding venue offers a timeless setting for your special day. With lush outdoor courtyards, graceful fountains, and views of both the ocean and the surrounding mountains, this enchanting location captures the essence of Santa Barbara’s historic and natural beauty. Conveniently located within walking distance of the city’s most famous sights, the venue allows you and your guests to easily explore the vibrant cultural scene before and after your wedding celebration.
Venue Highlights and Amenities
- Outdoor Courtyards: Enjoy three distinct outdoor courtyards, each adorned with greenery, historic architectural details, and tranquil water features.
- Exclusive Bridal Room: A private bridal room is available for last-minute preparations and quiet moments before the ceremony.
- On-Site Manager: A dedicated on-site manager ensures the event runs smoothly and can assist with any immediate venue-related needs.
- Restroom Facilities: Four restrooms are accessible to accommodate up to 250 guests.
- Flexible Event Times: Your rental includes six event hours (4:00 PM to 10:00 PM), with set-up allowed from 9:00 AM and final strike by midnight.
Take a Virtual Tour and Check Availability
Before making your decision, you can explore the Santa Barbara Historical Museum wedding venue spaces through their virtual tour, giving you a comprehensive view of the site’s layout and ambiance. Additionally, an updated availability calendar is maintained on their official website, ensuring that you can quickly identify potential wedding dates.
Rental Rates
Peak Season (Generally weekends and prime months):
- Friday: $8,500
- Saturday: $12,500
- Sunday: $8,500
- Monday–Thursday: $5,500
Low Season (Off-peak dates):
- Monday–Thursday: $2,500
- Friday & Sunday: $5,000
- Saturday: $8,000
What’s Included in the Rental Fee:
- Access for up to 250 guests
- Three outdoor courtyards
- Bridal room
- Four restrooms
- Six event hours (4:00 PM–10:00 PM)
- Early load-in starting at 9:00 AM and event strike until 12:00 AM
- On-site ceremony rehearsal
- On-site manager for the duration of your event
What’s Not Included:
- Event insurance (You must provide a certificate of insurance)
- Refundable security deposit
- Day-of coordinator (Museum requires that you hire a coordinator)
- Approved vendors (catering, bar, florist, and coordinator must be chosen from their approved list)
- Rentals such as tables, chairs, and kitchen tents
- Kitchen facilities
- Guest parking (No on-site parking; guests may use the Santa Barbara School District parking lot)
- Specialty lighting
Additional Considerations:
- Candles: Candles are allowed if placed in protective containers.
- Approved Vendors: All vendors must be from the Santa Barbara Historical Museum wedding approved list to maintain the venue’s standards and compliance. You cannot bring in your own vendor if they are not on this list.
- Furniture Rentals: Tables and chairs are not included and must be sourced from the approved vendor list.
- Staffing: Beyond the on-site manager, additional staff (such as waitstaff or bartenders) are not included in the rental fee.
- Alcohol Services: Any alcoholic beverages must be served by a licensed caterer from the museum’s exclusive vendors list.
- Parking: There is no on-site parking available for guests. However, guests can utilize the nearby Santa Barbara School District parking lot.
Planning Your Visit and Booking
If you’re considering a Santa Barbara Historical Museum wedding venue, you can book a guided tour to see the venue in person. You’re also welcome to drop by during public visiting hours to experience the museum’s rich history and envision how it can elevate your wedding day.
Check the Approved Vendor List
Before finalizing your wedding details, review the museum’s approved vendor list to select the caterers, florists, and coordinators who best fit your vision and style. You can access the current list here:
Approved Vendor List
Contact Information
To learn more about hosting your Santa Barbara Historical Museum wedding venue, reach out to their events team:
- Call/Text: JLY-WED-SBHM (559-933-7246)
- Website: https://www.sbhistorical.org/venue-rental/
- Email: [email protected]
From its gorgeous courtyards to its prime downtown location, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum delivers a wedding experience that artfully blends history, natural beauty, and timeless elegance. Plan your visit, explore your options, and let this iconic venue serve as the unforgettable setting for your big day.
