Tucked between the Pacific and Highway 101, Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone is a vibrant enclave where art, surf culture, and wine converge. As part of the Urban Wine Trail, this compact, walkable district is home to more than 20 tasting rooms allowing visitors to sample world-class wines without leaving city limits.
What to Expect at The Funk Zone
Start your tasting journey at spots like The Valley Project—a fun, schoolhouse‑inspired space offering flights from all six of Santa Barbara County’s AVAs, complete with soil‑sample displays and chalk‑mural maps. Then wander to Riverbench, renowned for estate-grown bubbly, or sip vibrant vinos at Municipal Winemakers, where bottle‑fountain decor and a laid-back vibe mirror the area’s creative spirit. For panoramic ambience, head to the urban wine garden, where flights are paired with breathtaking coastal views.
When you want to take a break from sipping and swirling, check out the Funk Zone’s many galleries and studios, as well as its ever-changing murals on Mason Street. Then, stroll a block to the sand to dabble your toes in the surf.
Dining at The Funk Zone
Hungry? The Santa Barbara Wine Collective shares a space with Helena Avenue Bakery, which offers such perfect wine-pairing bites as wildflower honey ricotta on sourdough toast as well as more substantial items like a griddles sausage biscuit sandwich. There are also artisanal pizzas at Lucky Penny, tapas at Loquita, and if a pint and a bite is what you need, make a bee line to Lama Dog Tap Room + Bottle Shop, where you’ll find around 26 taps and food from The Nook.