Creative Wedding Weekend Activities for You and Your Guests
The Painted Cabernet
Planning a wedding in Santa Barbara means more than just saying “I do” with an ocean view—it’s also the perfect excuse to turn your celebration into a full weekend of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re welcoming guests from out of town or just looking to add a little extra fun to your itinerary, the area offers plenty of activities that blend local flavor, natural beauty, and hands-on creativity. From rooftop science museums and wine-infused painting sessions to food tours through the Funk Zone, there’s something for every type of guest to enjoy.
In this roundup, we’re spotlighting some of the best ways to elevate your wedding weekend with group-friendly experiences from local favorites like MOXI Museum, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Belmond El Encanto, The Crafter’s Library, Eat This Shoot That, and The Painted Cabernet. Whether you're planning a laid-back afternoon with friends or a more structured welcome event, these activities take the stress out of coordinating and let you focus on what matters most—celebrating together.
The Crafter’s Library
The Crafter’s Library is Santa Barbara’s hidden gem for upscale, creative gatherings—a refined, artful space that blends boutique charm with modern elegance. Ideal for bridal showers, bachelorette parties, wedding welcome events, or post-wedding brunches, our venue offers a sophisticated, hands-on experience your guests will never forget. Located in the heart of downtown, The Crafter’s Library surrounds guests with curated beauty: light-filled interiors, warm wood accents, and an ambiance that feels both personal and polished.
Our expert team works closely with wedding planners and brides to create fully customized craft experiences and personalized keepsakes, from hand-embroidered napkins to bespoke stationery, candles, and curated welcome bags. We proudly feature artisan-made, locally sourced goods and Santa Barbara-inspired souvenirs that reflect the region’s coastal charm and creative spirit. Whether you're planning a luxurious pre-wedding workshop or an elegant event to thank your bridal party, we offer elevated options tailored to your vision.
The Crafter’s Library combines style, hospitality, and creativity—perfect for clients seeking something unique, meaningful, and beautifully executed. Let us help you craft a celebration that’s as unforgettable as your love story.
The Painted Cabernet
Looking for a fun, memorable way to bring your wedding party together? Whether you're bonding with bridesmaids, gathering out-of-town guests, or just want something different during your wedding weekend, The Painted Cabernet in downtown Santa Barbara is a must.
This paint-and-sip studio offers an upbeat, social setting where beginners can create their own masterpiece plus enjoy wine, beer and bubbles from local Santa Barbara and Central Coast wineries. No experience necessary? Classes are led by a professional artist, each class is step-by-step and perfect for beginners.
Bridal parties can join one of our fun public classes or book a private event for a more personalized experience. You can even customize your painting to match your wedding colors or theme!
The vibe is joyful, lighthearted, and totally Instagram-worthy. Think: laughter, creativity, and clinking glasses with your favorite people.
The Painted Cabernet is the perfect blend of celebration and creativity. An ideal pre-wedding activity that your guests will remember long after the big day.
Eat This, Shoot That
Food tours are a great way to explore a city, and an even better way to host groups from out of town without having to plan a thing! Our local foodies/guides take guests to 6-8 different venues, depending on which tour is booked, for tastes of local fare, wines, craft brews and more. Along the way on this walking tour, guests will explore the famed Funk Zone of Santa Barbara or charming downtown Solvang, learn about local history, visit iconic sights of each neighborhood and even gain a few simple foodie photo tips that are geared toward smartphone photography.
Our #1 goal is to support the local mom & pop businesses while showing our guests a good time. When you come on our tours you’re helping us support what makes Santa Barbara and Solvang so special. Not to mention, taking the stress off your own shoulders while you let us play host to your friends and family for an afternoon!
The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern
Looking for a way to impress out-of-town guests without lifting a finger? Let Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos take the reins. This iconic landmark-turned-luxury-resort offers thoughtfully curated experiences that celebrate the best of Santa Ynez Valley. From horseback rides through rolling hills and scenic picnics in the vineyard to falconry demonstrations and immersive wine tastings, every outing is rooted in the history and beauty of the Central Coast. For food lovers, Mattei’s also hosts hands-on culinary classes where guests learn to craft artisan pasta, blend wine like a sommelier, or discover the delicate art of olive oil tasting.
No matter the occasion, Mattei’s makes entertaining effortless. Their team handles every detail, so you can simply enjoy an afternoon with friends or family surrounded by oak trees, lavender fields, and timeless California charm. Whether you’re planning a group retreat, a bachelorette weekend, or simply want to treat visitors to something special, the Tavern’s experiences make you look like the ultimate host—without having to plan a thing.
MOXI Museum
Looking for a fun and fresh way to entertain your adult crew? MOXI has you covered. This one-of-a-kind science and innovation museum in downtown Santa Barbara isn’t just for kids—it hosts a full calendar of evening programs designed exclusively for adults. Think hands-on exhibits, rooftop drinks, and interactive challenges all wrapped into one unforgettable night out. Whether it's a “Makers & Mixology” event or a themed trivia night under the stars, MOXI blends play with purpose, giving guests the chance to unleash their inner inventor, artist, or scientist—no lab coat required.
It’s an ideal experience for team-building events, birthday gatherings, or out-of-town guests who want something more memorable than just another dinner reservation. With panoramic views from the rooftop Sky Garden and curated programs that rotate throughout the year, MOXI makes it easy to host a group without the hassle. Just show up ready to explore, laugh, and rediscover the joy of curiosity.
Belmond El Encanto
Hosting guests from out of town? Let Belmond El Encanto do the honors. Perched in the Santa Barbara hills with panoramic views of the Pacific, this iconic hideaway offers culinary and cultural experiences that are both luxurious and deeply rooted in the region. Guests can take part in sommelier-led wine tastings, garden-to-table cooking classes, or personalized cocktail sessions with the property’s expert mixologists. Seasonal menus highlight the bounty of the Central Coast, and private dining options in their lush gardens make every gathering feel like a scene from a movie.
It’s a stunning and stress-free way to show off the elegance of Santa Barbara while spending meaningful time with your guests. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply want to share a beautiful afternoon with friends, Belmond El Encanto offers the perfect blend of hospitality, flavor, and unforgettable scenery—no planning required. You bring the group, and they’ll take care of the rest.
