Things to Do in Santa Maria (2025)

Since 1953, this downtown pillar serves textbook Santa Maria‑style tri‑tip over red oak with pinquito beans and a relish tray. Highlighted by the Los Angeles Times as a standout meal and beloved by locals for steady hospitality.

Family‑run since the 1940s, The Swiss keeps the red‑oak pit glowing for steaks, ribs, chicken, and linguiça. Named Best Santa Maria Restaurant by Santa Maria Sun readers and frequently recommended by local food writers.

The original Hitching Post, operating since 1952 in a weathered Old West building, remains essential to the Santa Maria Valley barbecue story. Praised by regional media for consistency, camaraderie, and oak‑grilled steaks.

A family‑owned, design‑forward hilltop winery known for cool‑climate wines, mezze picnics by Chef Julie Simon, and weekly live music. Its events calendar shows a full 2025 slate, making it a convivial community hub.

Set on an 1852 land grant ranch, this rustic tasting room pours estate wines beside lawns and heritage barns. Featured by Santa Barbara County Vintners and host to the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail’s 2025 gathering.

A 1973‑planted estate known for sparkling wines and Pinot Noir, poured in a restored 1920s ranch house with gardens and bocce. Open daily according to local chamber listings and praised by wine writers for quality and value.

Taste at the source at the estate’s new Gatehouse, offering curated flights and private vineyard tours at one of California’s most acclaimed sites. Open days and experiences are listed by the winery.

Independent taproom anchoring Old Town Orcutt with trivia, beer yoga, live music, and neighborhood fundraisers. Verified hours and programming via the Santa Maria Valley Chamber confirm an active, community‑minded calendar.

A year‑round Wednesday market showcasing regional growers, Oaxacan chiles, berries, honey, and hot foods. Multiple community calendars list 2025 dates; talk directly with farmers for tips on pinquito beans and barbecue seasoning.

A nationally respected resident company and training program presenting Shakespeare, contemporary plays, and Broadway titles. The 2025 season spans Marian and Severson Theatres; a cultural anchor widely covered by regional arts media.

Volunteer‑powered since 1959, this intimate theater spotlights homegrown talent with plays, musicals, free family shows, and community partnerships like Pride programming in 2025. It’s a friendly doorway into the local arts scene.

Weekend‑open hangars share local aviation stories through aircraft, models, and memorabilia. The City’s 2025 Culture in the Valley series features the museum, while a larger Planes of Fame campus progresses nearby.