Hotel Virginia | ph:805-963-9757

This could be the best Holiday Inn Express in America. Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, in a historic building just off lower State Street. Terracotta tiles and exposed brick? Check.

Wedding rate is $239 and includes breakfast and a complimentary wine happy hour on Friday. There is a two-night minimum. Parking is $12/night.

We have blocked out rooms at this hotel. To reserve at the discounted rate, you must book over the phone, and tell them you are with the Gamson-Uchida wedding party. If you want a quiet room, ask to NOT be on Haley Street. Please book at least 30 DAYS in advance of the wedding.

Harbor View Inn | ph:805-963-0780

If you are looking for a relaxing beachy-resort getaway, this hotel has a picturesque location overlooking the beach and Stearns Wharf. Rooms are upgraded and there is a pool.

Wedding rates run from $315-$420. There is a two night minimum. Parking is $10/night.

We have blocked out rooms at this hotel. To reserve at the discounted rate, you must book over the phone, and tell them you are with the Gamson-Uchida wedding party. The blocked rooms will be released 60 DAYS in advance of the wedding.

Pepper Tree Inn | ph:805-687-5511

A Best Western Plus hotel located on upper State Street across from La Cumbre Mall. This location is farther from downtown. The rooms are a bit older, but the rates are more reasonable and the hotel has two nice swimming pools with surrounding gardens.

Wedding rate is $186 and this is the only hotel that does not require a 2 night minimum, but there is a chance that may change as the wedding date approaches. Parking and shuttle service from Santa Barbara airport are complimentary.

To reserve at the discounted rate, please book over the phone and tell them you are with the Gamson-Uchida wedding party. If you want a quiet room, ask to NOT be on State Street.

The Upham | ph:805-962-0058

A charming, Victorian-style B&B in a quieter location, but still close to downtown and State Street.

Rates run $275-$325 depending on the room type. Parking and breakfast are complimentary, as well as afternoon wine and cheese and milk and cookies at night! There is a two night minimum.

When you call to make a reservation, let them know that you are with the Gamson-Uchida party.

Things to see and do...

Santa Barbara Mission - iconic Santa Barbara landmark

Beaches - Butterfly Beach in Montecito (nice coastal walk + Four Seasons Biltmore hotel grounds). Stearns Wharf and East Beach also scenic.

State Street - downtown Santa Barbara retail center with restaurants and shopping. Stop by the Arlington to peek into their historic theater!

Santa Barbara Courthouse - beautiful old Spanish-style architecture and grounds. Just one block off State St. Make your way up into the tower for the view.

Hiking - Cold Springs and Rattlesnake Canyon are some old favorites.

Farmer's Markets- There is a Saturday morning at the corner of Cota Street and Santa Barbara Street.

Music Academy of the West- a very well-respected music academy in an absolutely gorgeous setting.

Things to eat...

Mexican food - La Super-Rica was Julia Child's favorite. Los Agaves is also great.

Brophy Brothers- for seafood lovers, on a breakwater that provides a beautiful post-meal walk.

Jeannine's - breakfast and baked goods. The Montecito location has nice outdoor seating.

Blenders in the Grass - best smoothies in the world!

Cold Springs Tavern - about an hour drive up a windy canyon in the mountains. If you don't get carsick, you'll enjoy the old stagecoach tavern.

McConnell's Ice Cream - it's ice cream. Duh.