Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Goleta - Atlas Obscura

Unusual Attractions in Goleta

Goleta, California

Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove

A popular winter vacation destination for migrating monarch butterflies.

Goleta, California

Barnsdall-Rio Grande Gas Station

This little gem of Spanish Colonial architecture has been abandoned since the 1950s.

Goleta, California

Monument to the Bombardment of Ellwood

The first attack on the continental U.S. during WWII occurred off the coast of a quiet California golf course.

Are we missing something unusual in Goleta?

Isla Vista, California

AlloSphere

360-degree virtual reality chamber physically immerses scientists into their data.

1 mile from Goleta

Santa Barbara, California

Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park

Colorful Native American paintings are hidden within this small cavern.

5 miles from Goleta

Santa Barbara, California

Cold Spring Tavern

Hidden in the Santa Ynez Mountains off Highway 154, this tiny restaurant once served as a stagecoach stop.

5 miles from Goleta

Santa Barbara, California

Whale House

This stunning sea creature-shaped home blends into the landscape like a fantasy villa.

6 miles from Goleta

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Atlas Obscura Trips

Art of Joshua Tree and the Mojave

Join us as we venture deep into the High Desert, glimpsing massive sculptures, fluorescent painted mountains, and revitalizing domes along the way.

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7oddgr has been to Barnsdall-Rio Grande Gas Station

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