Casa del Herrero
A 1925 Spanish Revival estate showcasing authentic art and Moorish-inspired gardens, offering an intimate glimpse into history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wisteria in full bloom!
Casa del Herrero
Best Time
Wisteria in full bloom!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1925 Spanish Revival estate showcasing authentic art and Moorish-inspired gardens, offering an intimate glimpse into history.
"A 'time machine' to the 1920s/30s, this home is made of magic and inspiration."
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Reservations are essential! The 90-minute guided tour is highly recommended for a magical experience.
🌸 Admire the Gardens
The gardens are a National Historic Landmark; take time to explore their beauty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Spanish Revival Architecture
The House
A stunning 1925 estate showcasing authentic Spanish Revival design and craftsmanship.
Art from Spain's Golden Age
Interior of the House
Discover a curated collection of furniture and artifacts transported from historic Spanish homes.
Moorish-Inspired Gardens
The Gardens
Wander through a National Historic Landmark garden with enchanting fountains and lush greenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Allow Ample Time for Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Reservations are essential! The 90-minute guided tour is highly recommended for a magical experience.
🌸 Admire the Gardens
The gardens are a National Historic Landmark; take time to explore their beauty.
Architecture gems in Santa Barbara?
✨ Authentic Atmosphere
Experience a 'time machine' to the 1920s/30s with original furnishings.
📸 Photography is Allowed
Capture the beauty of the house and gardens, but be mindful of tour group flow.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Reservations are essential! The 90-minute guided tour is highly recommended for a magical experience.
🌸 Admire the Gardens
The gardens are a National Historic Landmark; take time to explore their beauty.
✨ Authentic Atmosphere
Experience a 'time machine' to the 1920s/30s with original furnishings.
📸 Photography is Allowed
Capture the beauty of the house and gardens, but be mindful of tour group flow.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Casa del Herrero for its authentic historical atmosphere and stunning architecture, often comparing it favorably to larger, more crowded attractions. The intimate tours and beautiful gardens are frequently highlighted as major draws, offering a deeply engaging and memorable experience. While the price is noted, most feel it's well worth the value for the quality of the visit.
"Rose was an amazing guide! she was kind & knowledgeable. Ainsley was also very friendly & helpful! we loved our time here & can’t wait to come back! we came beginning of april & the wisteria was in full bloom! such a beautiful stop we highly recommend."
mahlia aznar
"We had a lovely tour today. The house is extremely beautiful and authentic to the family’s history, with all the original furnishings still on display. Your tour, although slightly more expensive than Hearst Castle ($50 vs $30), is far less crowded as it is only 10 of you going through the entire house and grounds.
I found it to be more interesting and authentic than our visit to Hearst Castle yesterday as a result. Although I very much enjoyed the grandeur of that as well.
I’m surprised that more people are not coming here, an excellent stop on your visit!
Highly recommended."
Lawrence d-f
"The Casa Del Herrero (House of the Blacksmith) is a Time Machine back to the 1920’s and 30’s in Montecito, CA. Wrapped in the history, stories, and amazing facts of a time few of us think about.
From handmade tiles to ceilings transported from churches in Italy, this home is made of magic. Thought and attention to detail is applied to every inch of the grounds, including the garden used for moonlit strolls under the full moon.
A home filled with love, artistry, and community (And a workshop that made me green with jealousy). This place is a reminder of just what a home can be. More than just walls keeping the weather out but a fanciful world that provides rest and creativity, inspiring others even when the owners are long gone.
If you get a chance to do the 90-minute tour you need to. It's a magical experience!"
Katie Jackson (Hutt)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Casa del Herrero is located in Montecito, California. It's best accessed by car. Parking is available on-site. The address is 638 Hot Springs Road, Montecito, CA 93108.
Public transport options are limited in Montecito. While buses may serve the general area, it's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. A car or ride-sharing service is generally more convenient.
There is dedicated parking available at the estate for visitors. Arrive a little early for your tour to ensure you have ample time to park and check in.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tours are by reservation only and often sell out. It's highly recommended to book your tickets online well in advance of your visit.
Casa del Herrero offers guided tours, typically around 90 minutes long. Prices can vary, but reviews suggest they are around $50 per person, which is considered a good value for the experience.
Tour availability is limited and depends on reservations. It's best to check the official Casa del Herrero website for the most current tour schedule and booking information.
No, access to Casa del Herrero is exclusively through guided tours. This ensures a curated and informative experience for all visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tours at Casa del Herrero are approximately 90 minutes long, allowing ample time to explore the house and gardens.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the house and gardens, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the space and other visitors.
While both are historic estates, Casa del Herrero offers a more intimate and authentic experience with original furnishings, whereas Hearst Castle is known for its grandeur and larger scale. Casa del Herrero tours are also less crowded.
The gardens are particularly beautiful in spring when the wisteria is in bloom. Keep an eye on their website for any special events or seasonal highlights.
📸 📸 Photography
The Moorish-inspired gardens offer numerous picturesque spots with fountains and lush greenery. The architectural details of the house itself are also highly photogenic.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the venue directly or observe if other visitors are using them to gauge the general allowance.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful in the gardens, while afternoon light can create dramatic shadows on the architecture. Consider the time of day for your visit based on your photographic goals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the temperament of your children before booking. If they can appreciate a slower-paced, informative experience, it can be a rewarding visit. It's less about interactive exhibits and more about absorbing the atmosphere and stories of the past.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Beyond the house, the gardens designed by Lockwood de Forest are also of historical and aesthetic importance. The estate offers a comprehensive look at early 20th-century design, blending art, history, and landscape architecture. It's a place where every detail tells a story, making it a deeply satisfying experience for architecture buffs.
📸 Photographers
Morning light can be ideal for capturing the gardens' serene beauty, while afternoon light can highlight the architectural textures. Be sure to check photography guidelines with the venue, but generally, personal photography is welcomed. The intimate tour size also means you're less likely to have crowds obstructing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into the Past: The Casa del Herrero Estate
Visitors are transported back in time as they explore the house, which retains its original furnishings and a palpable sense of history. The attention to detail is extraordinary, from the hand-painted tiles to the ceilings that were reportedly transported from churches in Italy. Beyond the house, the grounds are equally impressive. The gardens, designed by landscape architect Lockwood de Forest, are a National Historic Landmark, boasting Moorish-inspired elements, fountains, and a serene atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The estate also includes a workshop, which was a significant part of Steedman's life as an inventor. This space, along with the rest of the home, reflects a deep appreciation for artistry, community, and the creation of a truly inspiring living space. A tour of Casa del Herrero is more than just a house visit; it's an immersive journey into a bygone era of elegance and craftsmanship.
The Artistry of the Gardens
During the spring, the gardens are particularly breathtaking due to the abundant wisteria in full bloom, creating a magical canopy of purple flowers. This seasonal display is a major draw for visitors and photographers alike. The gardens are not just aesthetically pleasing; they are designed for contemplation and enjoyment, offering shaded seating areas and winding paths that invite exploration.
Walking through these meticulously maintained grounds provides a wonderful contrast to the interior of the house. It's a space where nature and art converge, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to appreciate the thoughtful design that went into every aspect of the estate.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit