Discover Santa Barbara’S Timeless Charm: 7 Historic Hotels You Can Still Check Into

Step into Santa Barbara’s Storied Past with Its Iconic Hotels

Santa Barbara’s enchanting allure isn’t just etched in its coastal vistas or its sun-kissed promenades. It resonates through the halls of its historic hotels, which stand as testaments to the city’s transformative journey over the decades. These charming establishments have weathered everything from natural disasters to evolving design trends, yet they remain steadfast in their appeal, offering guests a unique blend of vintage charm and modern luxury.

Some of these storied venues date back over a century, providing refuge to Hollywood’s elite and artistic minds alike. Today, travelers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this timeless elegance, staying in lodgings that have witnessed an era of glamour and cultural evolution.

Santa Barbara’s 7 Historic Gems

Simpson House Inn

Located at 121 E Arrellaga St, this delightful Victorian boutique hotel hails from 1874 and was once the home of Robert and Julia Simpson. Despite surviving the catastrophic 1925 earthquake, it remains a beacon of historical elegance. Glyn and Linda Davies transformed it into a luxury B&B in 1985, ensuring it retained its historic charm while earning accolades like the prestigious Structure of Merit award.

El Encanto Hotel

Perched at 800 Alvarado Place, El Encanto Hotel is a plush retreat boasting stunning Pacific views since 1918. Its historic architecture, including the iconic trellised Arbor and Lily Pond, remains intact. As a favorite getaway for Hollywood stars, El Encanto made waves when Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco chose it for their wedding guests, reflecting its continued allure.

“El Encanto’s history and breathtaking views make it a perfect fusion of past and present, offering guests an unforgettable experience,” shared a recent guest.

The Upham Hotel

At 1404 De La Vina St, The Upham Hotel is one of SoCal’s oldest hotel treasures, dating back to 1871. Known initially as Lincoln House, this property has seen numerous transformations while maintaining its 19th-century allure. Its designation as a city landmark ensures its rich history is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Hotel Santa Barbara

Situated on the bustling State Street, Hotel Santa Barbara traces its origins to 1876. After the 1925 earthquake, it rose from the rubble, becoming a beacon for Hollywood’s brightest. The hotel’s legend includes whispers of hidden Prohibition-era liquor stashes, adding a splash of intrigue to its storied past.

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara

Just steps from vibrant State Street, Hotel Virginia, originally built in 1916, was reborn after 1925 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. As a designated local landmark, it seamlessly merges historic elegance with contemporary hospitality, offering a glimpse into the city's architectural evolution.

Montecito Inn

With roots reaching back to the silent film era at 1295 Coast Village Road, this inn was co-founded by Charlie Chaplin in 1928. It stands as a symbol of Santa Barbara’s cinematic legacy while offering modern amenities like a spa and pool, blending history with luxury in quintessential Cali fashion.

San Ysidro Ranch

Tucked away at 900 San Ysidro Lane, San Ysidro Ranch is a serene hideaway with a history as rich as its natural surroundings. Hosting legends like Groucho Marx and Winston Churchill, it is perhaps best known for being the honeymoon destination of John and Jackie Kennedy, ensuring its enduring place in history.

These historic hotels continue to epitomize Santa Barbara’s remarkable blend of heritage and hospitality, inviting visitors to experience the city’s timeless charm and storied past.