If you’re looking for an easy day trip in Southern California, it doesn’t get much better than the little town of Los Alamos. It’s located in the Santa Ynez Valley and has a population of just under 2,000. Before the area became a town, it served as a hideout for famed bandit Saloman Pico, the inspiration for the character Zorro. The quaint tiny town has no postal delivery and residents still pick up their mail at the post office. With such a charming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this little town in SoCal makes for a perfect day trip.

"Los Alamos" means "the cottonwoods" in Spanish, and there are plenty of them in the area. How cute is this charming sign?
Richie Diesterheft/Flickr
The annual Old Days Festival is a great time to plan a visit. It's held the final weekend of September and honors the town's western heritage. There's a parade, car show, barbecue, and arts and crafts fair. It's a great time for the whole family!
Los Alamos Old Days/Facebook
The main roadway in Los Alamos is only about seven blocks long, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. You'll feel like you stepped right onto the set of an old Clint Eastwood movie!
Richie Diesterheft/Flickr

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Over the last few years, Los Alamos has become really popular with antiquers. The Depot Antique Mall is a great spot to pick up some bargains on old treasures.
Dajana Häusler/Google Maps
Los Alamos also has several wineries. Bedford Winery is a great little locally-owned delight where you can even have a chat with the chief winemaker.
Chuck Abbe/Flickr
For a small town, Los Alamos has some great food! Plenty On Bell is a delicious spot with food so good you'll think you're in the big city.
Captain Jim/Google Maps
Have you been to Los Alamos? Tell us your experiences in the comments!

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Los Alamos, CA, USA