Historic downtown Santa Cruz architecture

Heart of Santa Cruz Tour

Trip Highlights:

• Small groups (max 10) make it personal and flexible
• Insider tips for local restaurants, coffee, and nearby attractions
• Upper Pacific Avenue - Cooper House site, iconic Town Clock, and oldest commercial building
• Old Santa Cruz Mission Site - the county's oldest 1822 adobe and California's best-preserved Native mission residence
• Mission Plaza - the first business district and town center
• Squid Row - artistic alley with unique architecture and galleries
• Santa Cruz City Hall - 1937 building with beautiful surrounding gardens
• Santa Cruz's "Garden District" - grand Victorian-era homes and lush gardens
• Historic Del Mar Theater - 1936 Art Deco movie palace and Pacific Garden Mall

Book Your Tour

ADULT (18+): $45

CHILD (6-17): $30

Kids 5 and under and Seniors over 72 are FREE with adult ticket purchased

Duration:

1.5 hours

Schedule:

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2pm

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Description

Discover Santa Cruz the way locals love it — on foot, at a relaxed pace, with stories that bring the streets to life. This safe, guided walking tour connects the city's past and present, from its early adobe beginnings to its creative, surf-inspired culture today. Along the way, you'll hear how natural beauty, resilience, and community spirit have shaped Santa Cruz through centuries of change — from the original Ohlone inhabitants to the rebirth that followed the 1989 earthquake. Each stop adds a new layer to the city's unique character. You'll learn in a fun, conversational way as you walk shaded streets, peek into hidden courtyards, and see historic buildings through the eyes of a local who's passionate about this place. Small groups make it personal and flexible — there's time for questions, photos, and a few good stories you won't find in a guidebook. By the end, you'll not only know Santa Cruz — you'll feel it.

Important Information

Where does it start?

Abbott Square Market in Downtown Santa Cruz

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Private Tours

We're happy to arrange private tours or build custom group tours for schools, corporate teams, non-profits, family reunions, and more.

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Want a different tour?

We have many other tours to choose from in a variety of topics, languages, and group sizes.

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What Makes This Tour Special

Why take this tour?

Journey through time as we explore downtown Santa Cruz's architectural gems and the historic Mission Hill district. Discover the stories behind the buildings, the people who shaped this coastal town, and the vibrant culture that makes Santa Cruz unique.

Included

• Safe, guided walking tour led by a knowledgeable local host
• 6–7 curated stops featuring Santa Cruz's most historic and scenic landmarks
• Engaging stories about the people, places, and events that shaped the city
• Small group experience (maximum 10 guests) for a comfortable, personalized pace
• Relaxed walking route with frequent stops and plenty of shade
• Local tips and recommendations for food, coffee, and nearby attractions