University Club of Santa Barbara

About

The University Club of Santa Barbara is a private members club founded in 1919 that aims to provide a welcoming place for members to connect, celebrate, and grow. Its stated vision is to enrich and inspire the lives of members and the wider community across generations; the Club serves as a hub for social and professional connection, cultural programming, and member-driven activities. More information can be found on their about page.

Events

The Club runs a year-round calendar of member events including large seasonal celebrations, a Distinguished Speakers series, live music nights, themed trivia and game nights, and off-site outings. Members can also participate in quarterly Wine Maker Dinners and various recurring member clubs. Details about upcoming events can be found on their events calendar.

Programs

Programming is member-driven and includes social clubs and societies, an active Distinguished Speakers series, and networking/business-focused events. The Club facilitates professional development through speaker events and member forums. More about their programs can be found here.

Member Experience

Members receive a range of benefits including access to member-only events, professional and social networking opportunities, fine dining, and curated culinary events. Additional benefits include complimentary walk-in use of meeting rooms, special member rates on private events, and reciprocal privileges with over 200 clubs worldwide. More details can be found on the member experience page.

Membership

Prospective members must complete a mandatory introductory club tour before receiving a link to the online application. Applications are vetted by the Membership Committee and presented to the Board. Approved applications begin on the first of the following month. Information about membership categories and benefits can be found on the membership page.

Eligibility

Individuals 21 and older who have attended an accredited institution of higher education are eligible for membership. The Club accepts members regardless of alma mater, race, religion, age, gender, or sexual orientation. More details about eligibility can be found here.

Reciprocal Clubs

The Club maintains curated reciprocal privileges with over 200 clubs across the United States and internationally. Members may request Letters of Introduction for use at reciprocal clubs. More information is available on the reciprocal clubs page.

Facilities

The Club occupies the historic Riviera Mansion in downtown Santa Barbara, featuring approximately ten indoor rooms, curated gardens, patios, a bar and dining rooms, a library wing, and meeting spaces. The Club offers in-house event planning and full-service event capabilities. More details can be found on their facilities page.

Dining Options

Dining is led by the Club’s culinary team offering seasonal menus and curated culinary events. Members have access to indoor dining and the secluded Sola patio, along with regular wine and spirits programming. More information about dining options is available here.

Guest Information

The Club is private; dining and member events are open to members and invited guests. Non-members may host private events. Typical club hours are Tuesday to Friday, and members enjoy complimentary on-site parking. More details can be found on the guest information page.

History

Founded in 1919, the Club moved into the former Calkins Castle estate and has undergone several renovations. It is a locally recognized historic structure. More about the Club's history can be found on their history page.

Seasonal Operations

The Club’s regular public-facing hours are Tuesday to Friday, and it is closed for regular meal service on Saturday and Sunday. The administrative office is open Monday to Friday. More about seasonal operations can be found here.

Contact Information

University Club of Santa Barbara, 1332 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Phone: (805) 966-0853. The site lists dedicated contacts for membership inquiries and other staff. More contact details can be found here.