www.sbnature.org. 2259 Puesta del Sol Road. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is one of the most beautiful small museums in the United States by virtue of its natural creekside setting and gracious Spanish-style architecture. The Museum offers a close look at the story of the region’s birth, geology and paleontology, native wildlife, rich marine life, and the culture of the Chumash Indians. Marked with a giant whale skeleton at the entrance, this museum is an excellent stop for families. Open daily except holidays. Admission fee.