Museum

Called Central City until 1882, the town changed its name when mail was sent to Central City, Colorado instead. Walk back in time for a view of Chumash Indian Culture, the Mission Rancho and Pioneer periods. Visit the Barbecue Hall of Fame to discover how Santa Maria barbecue tradition began over 100 years ago..

Also learn about the changing face of a city which once was home to canning and food processing industries, including Union Sugar Company.  There are lots of interesting items to look at and the docents are very nice.

Santa Maria Museum of Flight

From the Wright Brothers to memorabilia of World War II, this museum is filled with so many items, it's difficult to absorb everything.

The museum now has seven aircraft: Bowers Flybaby, Rand KR 2, Sonerii 2, 1929 Fleet Model 2, Stinson Reliant, Parker Sailplane and Jensen Hang Glider. Again, the docents can't be beat for enthusiasm and time spent sharing stories and helping make your visit entertaining and educational.  You can tell the museum is a labor of love.