Los Alamos

Named after the cottonwoods that surrounded the land, it is known as the “heart of the wine country.”

Welcome to Los Alamos

 
Famous for its vineyards and luscious green rolling hills, Los Alamos was founded in 1876. Named after the cottonwoods that surrounded the land, it is known as the “heart of the wine country.” It preserves the rustic charm of a bygone era.
 

What to Love

Los Alamos, CA, nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, is a charming destination filled with activities and places that everyone can love.
  • Stay in Quaint Accommodations: Choose from unique stays like the Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast, Alamo Motel, or the modern Skyview Los Alamos for a comfortable and memorable visit​​​​.
  • Wine Tasting Adventures: The area is celebrated for its exquisite wine offerings. Casa Dumetz Wines offers elegant Rhone varietals, while Bedford Winery and Presqu’ile Winery are also must-visits for wine enthusiasts​​​​.
  • Culinary Delights: Los Alamos has quickly become a foodie destination. Don't miss Bob’s Well Bread Bakery for fresh, artisanal bread and pastries. For a fine dining experience, Bell's French-inspired cuisine is highly recommended, and Full of Life Flatbread is known for its delicious organic pizzas​​​​.
  • Stroll Down Bell Street: The main thoroughfare of Los Alamos, Bell Street is where you'll find a variety of antique shops, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms, offering a blend of vintage and modern experiences​​​​.

 

History & Heritage of Los Alamos

Los Alamos, California has a rich history that dates back to 1839 when José Antonio de la Guerra, a prominent figure from a powerful California family, received the Mexican land grant for Rancho Los Alamos. This expansive land was home to the local Chumash people before it became a hideout for the notorious bandito, Salomon Pico, whose adventures partly inspired the legendary character Zorro. By 1876, recognizing the strategic importance of the area as a stagecoach stop, Thomas Bell, his nephew John S. Bell, and Dr. James B. Shaw founded the town, aligning with the U.S. centennial celebrations.

 

Over time, Los Alamos evolved from a mere stagecoach station into a vibrant community enriched by agriculture and viticulture, reflecting California’s broader transition from its ranching roots to a more diversified economy. The introduction of the Pacific Coast Railway in 1882 further boosted the town’s connectivity and economic prospects, fostering a more dynamic interaction with neighboring regions. Today, Los Alamos is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its growing reputation within the Santa Ynez Valley's wine industry.

 

Things to Do

  • Explore Bell Street: The heart of Los Alamos, where you can find wine tasting rooms, antique stores, and craft beers set against a charming old-west backdrop​​.
  • Wine Tasting at Casa Dumetz: Specializing in Grenache wines, it's a cozy spot that's part of the vibrant Los Alamos wine scene​​.
  • Visit Bedford Winery: Known for its intimate wine tasting experience, offering a variety of wines with a focus on sustainability​​.
  • Relax at Bodega Los Alamos: An open-air beer and wine garden where you can enjoy your choice of beverage with a relaxed setting, picnic tables, and a hammock​​.
  • Antique Shopping at Depot Antique Mall: A treasure trove for antique lovers, offering a wide range of vintage items and collectibles​​.

 

Restaurants in Los Alamos

  • Bob's Well Bread Bakery: Famous for its artisanal breads, pastries, and sandwiches. Expect a line, but it's worth the wait​​​​.
  • Full of Life Flatbread: Offers delicious wood-fired pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients. A must-try for pizza lovers​​​​.
  • Pico Restaurant: Located in the old General Store, it offers a fine dining experience with a local wine list, perfect for a special night out​​​​.
  • Plenty on Bell: Known for its elevated comfort food, including delightful options like the pulled pork sandwich​

 

Wineries in Los Alamos

Los Alamos, California, nestled in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, is a notable hub for wine enthusiasts, boasting a collection of boutique wineries that capture the unique terroir of the region. Among these, Casa Dumetz Wines, Bedford Winery, and Martian Ranch and Vineyard stand out, each offering distinct wine experiences that highlight the valley's diverse grape varieties and winemaking styles. Casa Dumetz focuses on small-batch wines, while Bedford Winery is known for its cozy atmosphere and Martian Ranch embraces biodynamic farming practices. This area, approximately two and a half hours north of Los Angeles, provides an intimate wine tasting experience, making it a delightful destination for those seeking to explore lesser-known vineyards away from the crowded mainstream locales.

 

Arts & Culture

Los Alamos, California, is a vibrant center for arts and culture within the Santa Ynez Valley, fostering a creative community enriched by its historical backdrop and scenic charm. The town hosts numerous cultural events and activities, including the Los Alamos Old Days, a celebration featuring parades and artisan booths that showcase local crafts and traditions. Additionally, the Los Alamos Arts Council actively promotes the arts through various initiatives such as art exhibitions, craft fairs, and educational classes at the Fuller Lodge Art Center. These events not only highlight the artistic talents within the community but also draw visitors from across the region, adding to the town's allure as a cultural destination.

 

Overview for Los Alamos, CA

1,343 people live in Los Alamos, where the median age is 45.3 and the average individual income is $48,471. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

1,343

Total Population

45.3 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$48,471

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for Los Alamos, CA

Los Alamos has 491 households, with an average household size of 2.69. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Los Alamos do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 1,343 people call Los Alamos home. The population density is 1,485.81 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

1,343

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

45.3

Median Age

37.68 / 62.32%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
491

Total Households

2.69

Average Household Size

$48,471

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Los Alamos, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Los Alamos. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
Olga L. Reed Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 8th
2/5

Property Listings

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