Just up the 101 from Santa Barbara lies the tiny Western town of Los Alamos, California—population: 1,839. While many travelers are likely to stop in nearby Solvang, this hidden gem makes for another charming road trip stop on your journey up the coast. The historic town is centered around a humble 7-block street where you’ll find historic buildings like the 1880 Union Hotel. With its growing reputation as a food and wine destination, Los Alamos has some fascinating shops, landmarks, and restaurants to explore during an afternoon.
You’ll find Los Alamos at the junction of US 101 and State Route 135, covering just about one square mile. Hop out of the car and walk down the 135, A.K.A. Bell Street, home to a collection of historic small businesses among the Cottonwood trees—incidentally, “Los Alamos” means “The Cottonwoods” in Spanish.
The town’s crown jewel is no doubt the Union Hotel at 362 Bell Street, whose origins date back to 1880. It served as a significant stagecoach and railroad stop at the end of the 19th century before burning down in a fire in 1893. The hotel was then rebuilt in 1915 and carefully restored to its 1880 facade in the ’70s. These days, you’ll find it holds funky themed rooms, quirky memorabilia, and vintage decor.
These retro elements have attracted some major celebrities over the years, from Johnny Cash performing at the hotel in the 1950s to Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson filming the “Say Say Say” music video there in 1983. More recently, Kate Hudson and Kurt Russell hosted wine tastings in the saloon. The Union Hotel has been on and off the market since 2023, with its most recent asking price at just under $5 million.
The best way to experience Los Alamos is by simply walking around and taking in the historic buildings, but we’ll give you a few gems to look out for. History lovers will do a double-take at the renovated Los Alamos Mercantile Building, which houses some retail spaces and accommodations, as well as California’s last remaining Pacific Coast Railway station, which was recently turned into an old-fashioned bar.
You can also pick up some unconventional antiques and collectibles at Bell Street boutique shops, including Sisters Gifts and Home, Keane’s Eclectic Shoppe, Sylvia’s Depot, and Los Alamos Gallery.
When it comes to getting fed and watered, you’ll find that Los Alamos holds some fine establishments that often tap into that treasured retro Americana. Consider enjoying a meal at any of the following:
- Bell’s for French-inspired American cuisine
- Full of Life Flatbread for delicious wood-fired pizzas
- Charlie’s for down-home American food
- Priedite Barbecue for some delicious brisket
- Bob’s Well Bread Bakery for artisanal pastries and coffee
- Norman at the Skyview for elevated comfort food
- Pico Restaurant for fine dining and a great wine list
Bell Street is also dotted with numerous wineries where you can sample some of California’s best bottles, including Bodega Los Alamos, Bedford Winery, Lo-Fi Wines, A Tribute to Grace Wine Company, Clementine Carter, and more.
If you happen to pass through Los Alamos in September, then you may have a chance to see the town celebrate its old Western roots during the annual Los Alamos Old Days festival. It’s a weekend of memorable events, including a chili cook-off, a car show, an artisan fair, a charming parade, and live music.
Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, Los Alamos delivers a delightful blend of old West charm and modern-day indulgence. Its compact size makes it easy to explore in just a few hours, making for a fun and quirky detour on the 101.