Have you seen Santa Barbara like this? These colorful buildings are hidden all around downtown, yet many visitors miss them. They’re easy to find once you know though! They’re designed by local architect Jeff Shelton. His whimsical style is easy to recognize with bright tiles, rounded shapes, hidden details, and fun designs. There are about 12 of his buildings around downtown, and you can find a free Jeff Shelton map online to follow them. Some of my favorites (in order of the carousel): 📍 El Zapato (The Shoe House) – 529 East Cota St 📍 Ablitt House – 13 W Haley St 📍 Vera Cruz House – 521 Chapala St 📍 Fig Tree House – 1331 1⁄2 Santa Barbara St 📍 El Andaluz – 531 Chapala St 📍 The Pistachio House – 519 Chapala St You’ll find even more Shelton touches across the city, so keep an eye out for unusual windows, balconies, and courtyards. Check my reel from yesterday for a beautiful California Central Coast road trip. If you’re driving from LA, Santa Barbara will be on your way, so you can swing by and check out these gems! . . . Unique places in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara architecture, Jeff Shelton buildings, best things to see in Santa Barbara, Unique places in California, California hidden gems