Funk Zone Studios - Santa Barbara

It's aaallll for the funk of it! As its' name states, the Funk zone is quite funky. This is a hip and swanky little area in Santa Barbara that's filled with cute tasting rooms, restaurants, and boutique shops. It's bustling, lively, and there's never a dull moment here. It's a fun area to take a stroll and explore. Although the crowd seems to be more on the hipsterish side, I wouldn't call this area completely hipster. What's nice is that there's something here for people of all ages. There's also some really nice street art around these parts. Apparently there used to be a lot more artwork but the city has toned it down. I was still able to spot some nice street art during the stroll through. There's also some quirky quotes and signage that lets you know that you're in the funk zone. Little districts like this really make me smile because it confirms that uniqueness and individuality isn't dead. It's very much alive and still embraced in these kinds of environments. I feel like this area is most known for its' wine tasting rooms. There are a TON to choose from and many of them are literally right next to each other. This makes for an ideal wine bar hopping session. And if you've had wine from Santa Barbara, you know that it's dayum delicious. I feel like you can't really miss the funk zone because it's right in middle of everything. Have some good wine, enjoy the yummy restaurants, bask in the local artwork and enjoy the funk while you're here.

Super fun Sunday morning stop for coffee and a muffin. Have to say, the Best Gluten Free blueberry muffin in the history of Gluten Free. Great atmosphere and outdoor patio dining. Fun browsing and people watching. A new favorite stop that is nice walking distance to the Santa Barbara Pier!

The Funk Zone? It's a revitalization of an approximately ten block area between State St and Garden St and Montecito St to Cabrillo Blvd by the Wharf that housed manufacturing, produce, citrus and fishing businesses into arts, culture and business area consisting of wineries, restaurants, art galleries and shops. On a Thursday, we were here around 3pm for an early dinner at a restaurant in the area so we had time to explore. After parking, we visited the State St. Visitor's Center and got a map of The Funk Zone and the surrounding area. Following the map, we walked through the area that consisted of art studios, retail shops, wineries and breweries and dining spots. I guess since it was mid-afternoon on a weekday, the area was kind of quiet. Maybe it's livelier in the evening and weekends. After walking through the area, we had time to walk down to the Stearns Wharf and into Downtown which borders the north and south sides of The Funk Zone. A hip an artsy area but glad we got to check it out. We enjoyed a great dinner at The Lark.

Simply the best hidden gem in my favorite city, Santa Barbara. Yes, they could use a larger wine selection but overall for a good party its great to come here. Especially with a few friends. great times!

The Funk Zone, often referred to by locals as the 'drunk zone ', is home to exactly one art gallery Silo. Please check it out. The Santa Barbara Art District is located in the few blocks around the Santa Barbara Art Museum at State and Anapamu Streets.