Shopping

Start your day browsing at over 50 stores at the Santa Maria Town Center East and West, on the corners of Cook and Broadway. You'll find fine department stores such as Robinsons May, Gottschalks, Sears, and Mervyns, along with numerous specialty shops and restaurants. If you happen to be shopping on a Wednesday, don't miss the Certified Farmers' Market at Town Center West from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. or on Tuesdays at the Oak Knoll Shopping Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Next, take a glimpse into the history of Santa Maria and the people who settled here. Take Highway 135 to the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum (616 S. Broadway, Santa Maria, 805.922.3130). Don't forget to pick up your Historic Walking Tour guide.

Want to go treasure hunting? Santa Maria is home to several antique shops where you are sure to find a special little something for yourself! Wander around The Antique Mall (1539 S. Broadway, Santa Maria, 805.922.6464) or step back in time at Antiques Plus, 104 Cuyama Lane, Nipomo, (805) 922-2205.

While you are in Old Orcutt, take a peek inside the David Ryan Gallery (205 E. Clark Ave., Old Orcutt, 805.937.1058). This is one of the largest fine art galleries on the Central Coast, exhibiting over 30 artists and sculptors from all over the world.

Still got some money burning a hole in your pocket? If you have the energy, head to the Danish Village of Solvang, take Highway 101 south about 30 miles. Immerse yourself in Scandinavian culture as you shop over 350 specialty boutiques and outlet stores and sample delicious pastries and European cuisine at the many bakeries and restaurants in town. The Solvang Antique Center (486 First Street, Solvang, 805.686.2322) features trinkets and treasures from 65 exceptional dealers from around the world.

Take Highway 101 north and exit Highway 154, which will take you to the artists' community of Los Olivos to visit the Judith Hale Gallery (2890 & 2884 Grande Ave, Los Olivos, 805.688.1222). You'll enjoy the eclectic mix of Western and traditional artwork representing over 75 nationally known and regionally recognized artists. You will find diverse groupings and themes featuring both representational and impressionistic paintings, as well as bronze and stone sculpture, woodcarvings, leatherwork and jewelry. Enjoy the quiet serenity of the sculpture garden behind the gallery and soak up a bit of sunshine or wander along the pathways and admire the impressive collection of outdoor sculptures.

Hungry now? Grab a snack across the street at the Los Olivos Café (2879 Grande Ave., Los Olivos, 805.688.7265). This gourmet deli has the perfect dish for everyone from pizza to sandwiches, salad, pasta, meat or fish! The café also has its own winetasting room and gourmet food shop.

After shopping, take Highway 154 south to Highway 246, turn right and try your luck at the Chumash Indian Casino located on Highway 246 in Santa Ynez. Here you'll find the finest in video gaming, high stakes bingo and exciting live poker. For an events calendar of concerts at the Casino, call 805.688.7161.

Head back to Highway 101 and go north back to Santa Maria. Stop by the Historic Santa Maria Inn to restore energy to your tired self with a treat. Savor a decadent slice of Lemon Cheesecake Xengo or Crème Brulee dessert from the Historic Santa Maria Inn's Garden Room Restaurant