Curator’s statement
Los Olivos and Los Alamos are two of my favorite spots in California’s Santa Ynez Valley—walkable, relaxed, and full of local character. In Los Olivos, it’s all about small-town wine tastings, historic buildings, and easy charm—many of the tasting rooms are run by the same folks who farm the nearby vineyards. Los Alamos brings a little more edge, with vintage shops, standout food, and a quirky Western feel. Just two and a half hours from LA and 30 minutes from Santa Barbara, it’s an easy getaway where you can pack a lot of great meals, wine, and local shopping into a laid-back 36 hours.
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Where to stay in Los Olivos & Los Alamos
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Things to do in Los Olivos & Los Alamos
The Perch on Bell Street—where locals sip wine and catch up surrounded by antiques, oddities, and Old West charm
Wander Bell Street in Los Alamos
Bell Street is just a few blocks long, but it’s packed with character. The vibe is old Western town meets wine country, with a handful of tasting rooms, beloved restaurants, and one-off shops like Sister’s Gifts & Home. It’s an easy place to explore on foot, and a great spot to slow down between meals or tastings.
Shop & stroll in Los Olivos
In between tasting rooms, check out Los Olivos General Store for locally made goods, gifts, and pantry items. For something more classic, swing by Jedlick’s Saddlery for Western wear, and don’t miss a wander through J. Woeste, a whimsical garden shop filled with fountains, sculptures, and oddities.
Take a scenic drive on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail
Just outside Los Olivos, this vineyard-lined road winds past scenic hills and connects to Alisos Canyon Road near Los Alamos. It’s a beautiful route to drive during golden hour, and a nice break between tastings. Even if you don’t stop, the views alone are worth it.
Los Alamos Old Days Festival (every September)
This quirky, small-town festival that celebrates the town’s Western roots includes a chili cook-off, artisan booths, a car show, and a Sunday morning parade and 5K. There’s even cow pie bingo.
Los Olivos Jazz & Olive Festival (every June)
This annual event features local wine and bites from over 30 chefs, local olive oil producers, and live jazz. It’s one of the best ways to experience the town in full swing. Bring a blanket and settle in.
Places to eat & drink in Los Olivos & Los Alamos
Bodega Los Alamos, where a curated wine bar meets a relaxed garden—tucked right off Bell Street in the heart of town
Strange Family Tasting Room (Los Olivos)
One of my go‑to spots in Los Olivos for easygoing wine tasting—great coastal pinot and chardonnay, and zero pretension. They don’t serve food, so it’s a good time to swing by one of the nearby markets.
Carhartt Family Wines (Los Olivos)
Tiny tasting room with a big personality. Food isn’t regularly available—except for occasional food‑truck nights—so if you’re hungry, head to the deli across town.
Bells (Los Alamos)
A one‑Michelin‑star French‑style bistro. Reservations for dinner often book weeks in advance, but walk‑in lunch is usually available—and absolutely worth it.
Los Olivos Grocery (Los Olivos)
A full-service gourmet market with breakfast pastries, deli sandwiches, cheese and charcuterie, and grab‑and‑go options. An easy spot to pick up snacks, coffee, or a box lunch for the drive home.
Priedite BBQ (Los Alamos)
This trailer behind Bodega Los Alamos serves next-level brisket, ribs, burgers, and housemade pickles. It’s casual, it’s smoky, and it sells out quickly.
PICO (Los Alamos)
My favorite dinner in Los Alamos for how personal it feels. When I visited for a friend’s birthday, they surprised us with dessert and a handwritten card. Oysters, seasonal vegetables, thoughtful wine list—always reliable.
Bodega Los Alamos (Los Alamos)
Part wine bar, part curated shop, all backyard charm. It’s a great afternoon spot to linger with a glass—or three—of something local and low‑key.
Need to know
Tasting room hours: Most spots are open Friday through Sunday year-round, with a few open Thursday or daily. Walk-ins are the norm, but if there’s a place you’re set on, it doesn’t hurt to check if they take reservations.
Parking: Free and easy in both towns. You’ll usually find a spot just a short walk from wherever you’re headed.
Restrooms: Public options are limited, so use the ones at tasting rooms or restaurants when you can.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal—milder weather, fewer crowds, and seasonal releases and events.
Crowds: Weekends can get busy, especially midday. If you want things a little quieter, aim for earlier starts or visit midweek.
Travel Advisor
Liz Lee
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