We like the cool roadhouse vibe, southwestern charm and rustic minimalism of this mid-century motor court. It's vintage Americana lodging at its retro best!

For an interview with the owner of the Alamo, visit our Stories here.

Hospitality experts Shelter Social Club have added another great retro property to their expanding portfolio with their signature rustic minimalism, southwestern desert aesthetics and chic vintage modern style.

Located in wine country just north of Santa Barbara, the site is a former stage coach stop and one of many charming businesses in the tiny town of Los Alamos. Shelter Social Club founder Chris Sewell knew he had found a gem in the slightly run down relic and began an extensive preservation effort to update it while preserving its vintage charm.

Designed to highlight the bygone era of the motor court of the 1950s, the classic motel is arranged around a central courtyard and communal spaces to encourage intimate gatherings around the firepit and share in the small production vintages from local vintner Municipal Winemakers. Each of the twenty one en-suite rooms has been transformed with fresh and minimal western style and can sleep between two to four guests. Some are outfitted with full kitchens and claw foot tubs.

The artisanal gift shop and wine tasting cottage are part of ongoing plans to host intimate bespoke dinners with the best of the areas local food and wine, creative workshops, movie nights and pop up events showcasing local artists. Offering the intimate charms of small town life and an inviting and convivial atmosphere, The Alamo is a unique and nostalgic slice of Americana.  

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Wifi throughout, Cable TV. Housekeeping and coin laundry facilities. Communal outdoor firepit, wine tasting room. Parking.  

AROUND

The tiny town of Los Alamos is the kind of quaint whistlestop outpost that reminds you of yesteryear. Just one strip of road dotted with charming shops and cafes, it's got that early Americana charm. 

An hour north of Santa Barbara, the area is adjacent to wine country and the Santa Ynez Valley and is within walking distance of gourmet farm-to-table restaurants, wine tasting rooms and taverns. 

A 20-minute drive to the Foxen Canyon wine trail and nearby Los Olivos, it's an off-the-beaten path alternative to exploring wine country. Los Angeles is two and a half hours south.  

LOCATION

Los Alamos, California. Nearest airport: Santa Barbara (50 miles)  

BEST TIME TO VISIT: May through October