For Immediate Release
Contact:
Emilia Guildemeister, West Coast Regional Director
Decade-Long Effort to Open Santa Barbara’s First Full-Scale Climbing Gym Reaches Major Milestone
SANTA BARBARA, CA (March 27, 2023) – After more than ten years of navigating real estate setbacks, permit challenges, and a global pandemic, The Pad Climbing is on track to open its first large-scale climbing facility in Santa Barbara’s Magnolia Center. The new gym, slated for a mid-July public opening, will stand as a testament to local collaboration and the resilience of the climbing community.
“This project has been a decade in the making,” said Kristin Horowitz, CEO of The Pad Climbing. “Between limited suitable spaces, rising construction costs, and the challenges of the pandemic, it sometimes felt like a dream we’d never see come true. But Santa Barbara has always had our heart—my family ties here run deep, and I couldn’t be prouder to finally bring The Pad to this city.”
The facility will feature a 45-foot roof-lift—currently underway—and modern Spanish Colonial design accents to integrate seamlessly with Santa Barbara’s architectural style. Once open, members will enjoy top-rope and lead climbing walls, plus access to a separate 24/7 training facility called the BoardRoom, located just across the parking lot.
Major milestones to date include final permits from the city, a sustainable roof-lifting partnership with Canadian-based RoofLifters, and design guidance from Andrew Goodwin Designs. Construction is led by SCI, a local contractor who shares The Pad’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
“This will be so much more than a gym,” added Horowitz. “We see it as a community hub—one that fosters connection, adventure, and personal growth. We can’t wait for Santa Barbara to climb with us.”
About The Pad Climbing
The Pad Climbing operates community-focused gyms dedicated to making climbing accessible for all. With a decade of experience in launching and running facilities in multiple locations—including San Luis Obispo and Binghamton—The Pad is known for its inclusive culture, innovative designs, and commitment to local partnerships. Learn more at thepadclimbing.org/gym-home/.
