Universal Studios
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
www.universalstudios.com

Hours vary according to season
Ticket Prices begin at $43 for adults & $33 for children
There are resident discounts during off-peak seasons
 

Theme park
This is the closest theme park to Santa Barbara and worth the trip.  Since it is only an hour away, you can enjoy it without staying overnight anywhere (unless you want to, that is...) The Studio Tour is excellent, as are some of the specialty 'rides.'  The Back to the Future ride and T2 dramatic ride are both interesting and at times a bit hair raising. On a hot day the Jurassic Park ride is perfect.  Of course there are the regular assortment of rollercoasters, etc., so there is really something for every taste. 

CityWalk
This part of the park has restaurants and shopping and a great view of the city.  The largest complaint is its popularity - so we guess that's not a horrible thing. 

Directions:
Take the 101 South past Ventura and into LA and Universal Center Drive and follow signs to Universal Studios Hollywood.  Depending on traffic, this is usually an hour drive.