A Dreamy Getaway

Santa Barbara, CA

A Cottagecore Escape

One of the most enchanting stays you can have is at the Simpson House Inn, a delightful bed and breakfast that embodies peak cottagecore aesthetics. From its quaint architecture to its serene garden, this place is a perfect retreat for anyone seeking elegance with a touch of nostalgia. The cozy atmosphere, impeccable service, and romantic charm made it the perfect place for our engagement celebration.

The Simpson House Inn, built in 1874, has a fascinating history. Originally a private residence, it was later transformed into a bed and breakfast while maintaining much of its original Victorian charm. The main original house and its addition of a small village of cottages are nestled in the back of the property, offering guests an intimate, peaceful retreat. Its lush garden, classicly cozy architectural style, and homey feel make it a sanctuary for those looking to experience the slower pace of Santa Barbara life. We spent our stay in one of the cozy cottages with a fireplace and central bathtub, ideal for winding down after a long, exciting day.

Though you would think we’d spend most of the time in our little heaven, the garden was where we spent most of our time, eating meals and enjoying the breeze. Breakfast was taken in the garden with food served on delicate floral China, accompanied by bottles of bubbly champagne and actual bunnies hopping by. Tea time was more of the same. What I would imagine heaven to be like. We were treated to warm chocolate chip scones and freshly made whipped cream. Though not plant-based, it was a treat I couldn’t resist—it was a special occasion, after all. Sometimes, vacation is about those indulgences that make the experience even more memorable. And it certainly was. It was like a dream that I wouldn’t mind recurring every night for the rest of my life.

Culinary Delight

Speaking of food. No visit to Santa Barbara is complete without indulging in its culinary offerings. Since this trip was for a special occasion, we opted for an exceptional Italian restaurant that served authentic cuisine. The flavors were fresh, bold, and deeply satisfying. Nothing beats the warmth of freshly made pasta. For more information on this culinary gem, you can find the details here.

As with many of our California trips, we gravitate towards both Asian and Mexican food options and alternate between the two. California is a melting pot of diverse cultures, and the food scene here is no different. We couldn’t resist indulging in everything from Vietnamese to Chinese cuisine during our visit, with some of the most comforting and addictive flavors. Every stop we made hit the spot.

Exploring the City's Scale and Green Spaces

One of the things that makes Santa Barbara so appealing is its scale. The city strikes a perfect balance between urban sophistication and small-town charm. It’s large enough to offer a diverse range of activities and dining experiences but small enough that you feel connected to the landscape and community. The pace here is slower, more deliberate, which makes it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.

During this visit, we discovered the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, which felt more like stepping into an ancient woodland than a curated garden. With its towering trees and tranquil paths, it was a refreshing escape into nature. Botanical Gardens are not only one of my favorite places to lose myself, but also one of my favorite places to pick up things to take home. Here I bought some jalapeno jelly. For more inspiration on where to grab goodies when you travel, check out my souvenir blog.

This visit also left me thinking about how crucial it is to protect these green spaces in the face of development. The challenge of maintaining Santa Barbara’s charm while providing affordable housing is one that needs careful consideration, ensuring that the city’s growth doesn’t lead to overpopulation or environmental degradation.

Architectural Inspiration from Jeff Shelton

Santa Barbara's unique charm is greatly enhanced by its distinctive architecture, particularly the works of Jeff Shelton. Shelton's imaginative designs blend whimsical elements with functional beauty, creating spaces that are not only visually stunning but also wonderfully livable. Jeff Shelton is, for me, the epitome of everything I aspire to be as an architect. He defines the very feel of a place, his work embraces creative freedom, the use of bold shapes and vibrant colors, and the ability to customize every detail down to the tile and hardware. His designs represent a marriage of artistry and practicality, and his approach to architecture is a perfect example of how spaces can elevate the human experience.

My ultimate life goal is to achieve a level of craft similar to Jeff Shelton’s—not only in architecture but in interior and product design, pattern making, and landscape design. Shelton's work continues to inspire me to push creative boundaries in every aspect of design. If you want to explore his creations in Santa Barbara, I highly recommend checking out his walking tour map, which highlights some of his most iconic works around the city. Each stop on the map tells a story of how architecture can shape a city and leave a lasting impression.

Santa Barbara continues to captivate with its blend of natural beauty, architectural wonder, and culinary excellence. Each visit brings something new and exciting, whether it’s the charm of the bed and breakfast or the vibrant food scene. The city’s balance of urban sophistication and small-town feel makes it a place we love to return to.

Inspiration continues to strike from Jeff Shelton’s work, the tranquil gardens, and the diverse food culture. I am forever grateful for the memories we’ve made here and look forward to future visits. Santa Barbara truly embodies the magic of a getaway that connects the heart, the mind, and the spirit.