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Santa Maria is the largest city in Santa Barbara County, set in a broad, fertile valley on California's Central Coast between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. The town grew from a settlement called Central City, renamed Santa Maria in the 1880s after the river and valley, and it was incorporated in 1905. Cool ocean breezes and rich soil made it one of the state's most productive farming regions, famous for strawberries, broccoli and other crops.
The valley is also the home of Santa Maria-style barbecue, a local tradition of beef tri-tip seasoned simply and grilled over red oak, served with pinquito beans and salsa. Weekend barbecue stands and restaurants keep the custom alive.
The Santa Maria Valley wine region stretches along Foxen Canyon with wineries known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In town there are museums of local history and flight and the Pacific Conservatory Theatre, while the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes and the Pacific coast lie a short drive west.
The local barbecue tradition of tri-tip seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic and grilled over red oak, served with pinquito beans, salsa and garlic bread. Many restaurants and weekend roadside grills serve it. Look for the smoke of charity barbecues in parking lots on Saturdays for an authentic local meal.
Vineyards along the Santa Maria Bench and Foxen Canyon Road known for cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Wineries such as Cambria and Rancho Sisquoc have tasting rooms among the hills. Many are small and open limited days, so check ahead, and drive the scenic Foxen Canyon Wine Trail.
A volunteer-run aviation museum at Santa Maria Public Airport, with historic aircraft, engines and exhibits on local flying history, including World War II training at the airfield. It is small and friendly, with volunteers sharing stories. It opens on limited days, mostly weekends, so check hours.
A downtown museum covering the valley's Chumash people, Spanish rancho days, early settlers, farming and the origins of the barbecue tradition. It has photos, tools, clothing and a research library. Admission is free or low cost, and opening days are limited, so call or check its site before going.
A small museum of natural history with displays on local wildlife, fossils, minerals, shells and Chumash culture. It suits families and school groups, and volunteers often lead hands-on activities. It keeps limited hours, mostly afternoons, and admission is free, though donations are welcome.
A hands-on children's museum with play exhibits on science, farming, nature and local industries, including agriculture displays tied to the valley. It is best for children under about ten. Allow one to two hours, and check opening days, as it is closed some weekdays.
PCPA is a professional theater company and training program at Allan Hancock College, staging musicals, dramas and classics in the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria and in Solvang in summer. Many shows feature talented student and pro actors. Book ahead for popular musicals, and check which venue a show uses.
A large professional rodeo held each June at the Elks Event Center, with bull riding, roping, barrel racing and a parade through town. It is one of the main events of the year in the valley. Buy tickets early, wear a hat and sunscreen, and try the tri-tip sold at the grounds.
One of the largest coastal dune systems in California, west of Santa Maria, with tall sand dunes, wetlands and wild beaches. Remains of the 1923 Ten Commandments film set lie buried here. Start at the Dunes Center in Guadalupe for exhibits and maps, and respect closed areas that protect nesting birds.
A large city-owned ranch park in the hills south of Santa Maria with oak woodland, ponds and miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. It is quiet and scenic, especially after winter rains. Check opening days and hours, as it is not open daily, and bring water and sun protection.
A big county park in the south of the city with lakes, ducks, shady lawns, playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields and a disc golf course. It is a favorite for family barbecues and weekend gatherings. Reserve a picnic site for larger groups, and expect a small parking fee on some days.
A city park in north Santa Maria with a duck pond, large trees, playgrounds, picnic areas and walking paths. It is popular for family barbecues and has space for kids to play. It is a calm stop for a picnic after visiting downtown; weekend afternoons are busiest.
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California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
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Photo: U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Rocio Romo, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
Photo: U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Rocio Romo, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
Photo: U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Rocio Romo, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
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