Santa Cruz Walking Tour: Discover Downtown & Mission Hill
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About This Tour in Santa Cruz
Why Visit Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz, USA offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Santa Cruz provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Santa Cruz
You can reach Santa Cruz, USA by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service (Uber, Lyft), or public transportation to reach the city center. Many hotels also offer shuttle services, and rental cars are widely available for exploring the area.
What's Included
- Safe guidance on city sidewalks/neighborhoods
What's Not Included
- Parking near Abbott square is around 1.25 per hour - can use ParkMobile app. Free parking is available further away from Abbott Square.
Cancellation Policy
Additional Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photo Gallery
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting Point
This half-block served as Santa Cruz's city and county center, with the Cooper House originally built as the courthouse in 1866Look for your tour guide wearing an aloha shirt
End Point
Look for your tour guide wearing an aloha shirt
Pickup Information
Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary
This half-block served as Santa Cruz's city and... 5 minutes
This half-block served as Santa Cruz's city and county center, with the Cooper House originally built as the courthouse in 1866. In the 1970s-80s it transformed into a legendary gathering spot for music, dining, and dancing. Demolished after the 1989 earthquake, the site is now home to Abbott Square.
See the Compass Rose building, one of the... 5 minutes
See the Compass Rose building, one of the oldest surviving structures downtown, and the iconicTown Clock built in 1976.
Enjoy sweeping views of downtown from this historic... 5 minutes
Enjoy sweeping views of downtown from this historic site, home to the oldest building in Santa Cruz County—an 1822-1824 adobe that housed indigenous families at the Mission, the best preserved Native American residence at any California mission.
Once the heart of the Mission Santa Cruz,... 5 minutes
Once the heart of the Mission Santa Cruz, this plaza became the original town center after secularization in the 1830s, serving as the gathering place for the emerging community.
Squid Row is a quirky alley between Chestnut... 5 minutes
Squid Row is a quirky alley between Chestnut and Union streets, once home to the legendary Calamari Festival in the 1980s. This artistic enclave features unique architectural details and creative galleries.
Santa Cruz City Hall, built in 1937 in... 5 minutes
Santa Cruz City Hall, built in 1937 in Monterey Colonial Revival style, and the neighboring Civic Auditorium from 1940 form the city's government and cultural center downtown.
Stroll through this walkable neighborhood lined with grand... 5 minutes
Stroll through this walkable neighborhood lined with grand Victorian-era homes and lush gardens,
This stunning Art Deco movie palace, built in... 5 minutes
This stunning Art Deco movie palace, built in 1936, remains a beloved downtown landmark showcasing independent films and hosting legendary midnight screenings.
Explore More
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How do I book this tour?
Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.
