Having lived in Southern California for basically my entire life, I can honestly say we have some truly unique and wonderful places to visit, from sprawling cities to tiny towns, and everything in between. The little European village I am about to share with you literally feels like walking through the pages of a storybook and it’s a place that brings me back again and again. With a small population of only about 6,000, there are a surprising amount of things to do in Solvang, CA.

So, what is Solvang known for? Where are the must-visit spots in town? What is the best way to explore? Keep reading for the answers, along with some of the many reasons why I love this small town so much.

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History Of Solvang

The “Danish Capital of America” has a rich heritage. Though Mission Santa Ines was built at the edge of what is now Solvang in 1804, it was in 1911 that the town itself was founded by immigrants from Denmark who made their way to the Golden State by way of Iowa. These intrepid settlers purchased some 9,000 acres of land and established their little farming community next to the historic mission. Wanting to preserve their Danish roots and promote their culture, they built a Danish folk school and a church (the original building is now home to a Danish restaurant). In 1946, plans for a “Danish Village” were implemented and the town’s facade was redesigned to showcase the authentic Danish style architecture, thatched roofs, and traditional windmills that visitors now enjoy in what has become a vibrant tourist destination.

Is Solvang Worth Visiting?

The answer to this is simple - a resounding yes! This may be the cutest and most picturesque town in SoCal. It is full of history and culture, making visitors feel like they have been transported to Old Europe but also seamlessly blends the old with the new. There are wonderful shopping and dining options (including amazing baked goods and wine - more on that later), fun things to see and do, and proximity to the beautiful vineyards of Santa Barbara County’s wine country. I have enjoyed many getaways to Solvang over the years and it remains one of my favorite small towns to visit.

How To Get To Solvang

Solvang is easily accessible from Santa Barbara in the south or San Luis Obispo in the north. From either direction, you exit Highway 101 onto East Highway 246 and continue about three miles to the downtown area. From Santa Barbara, you can also take a scenic drive up San Marcos Pass Road (also known as State Route 154) to Highway 246 and head west to enter town from the opposite side. Amtrak offers transportation to Solvang by way of its Motor Coach bus service. In Santa Barbara, you can purchase a ticket from Carpinteria to Solvang, board the bus at the Santa Barbara Amtrak Station, then get off at the Mission Drive bus stop in Solvang. If you happen to be flying into the area, the closest commercial airport is in Santa Barbara.

Getting Around Solvang

This is the epitome of a walkable town, so the best way to explore, by far, is to do so on foot. The short blocks are lined with shops, restaurants, bakeries, museums, etc. It is very easy to find your way around and there are benches along the sidewalks to sit and rest or enjoy a snack. Another fun way to get around is by pedaling. Wheel Fun Rentals has a wide selection to choose from including road bikes, electric and hybrid bikes, tandem bikes, and surreys (or pedal cars) that seat two, four, or six people. They even rent a road bike with an attached child seat, baby strollers, mobility scooters, and wheelchairs. If you are driving in for a day trip to Solvang or not staying within walking distance, there are three public parking lots (on Copenhagen Drive, Alisal Road, and Oak Street) as well as street parking throughout the town. All parking in town is free.

Best Time To Visit Solvang

There genuinely is no bad time to visit Solvang. When you visit really depends on personal preference as far as weather, crowds, and activities. If I had to choose, I would say that spring and fall are the best times to visit, both bringing lovely weather and pretty colors - changing leaves in fall and displays of colorful flowers around town in the spring. April and October are probably the least crowded and offer the most comfortable temperatures. If you’d like to avoid rain, the wettest month is usually February, but even then there is less than a week’s worth of rainy days on average. And if you don’t like the heat, the hottest month is August, with temperatures reaching up to about 90 degrees. As far as festivals and events, there is generally something happening nearly every month of the year, from music to food and wine to cultural events. Noteworthy events include Taste of Solvang Weekend in March, the Danish Days weekend in September, and the month-long Winterfest in December.

Where To Stay In Solvang

There are a lot of options when it comes to hotels in Solvang, but my go to is the Royal Copenhagen Inn. I have stayed here several times over the years and have never been disappointed.

I love the hotel’s traditional esthetic (it looks like an entire Danish Village!) and the incredible location. It is right in the heart of town so you can park your car and walk anywhere you want to go.

I have never stayed at the unbelievably cool Hygge Tower Apartment, but I have seen it and it is on my list. Located right in town, the one-of-a-kind two-story, three-bedroom apartment is a replica of a famous round tower in Copenhagen.

Not only is it spacious and beautifully stylish inside, but it is full of amenities including WiFi and a fully-equipped kitchen. You will also enjoy an incredible view from the patio at the top of the tower and a pizzeria and bakery right downstairs.

Solvang Sights & Landmarks

There are picture-worthy sights throughout the town, and depending on your interests, there are several fascinating landmarks, museums, and structures. These Solvang attractions are definitely worth checking out.

The historic Mission Santa Inés is one of the original Spanish missions founded by the Franciscans along the California Coast. The mission is over 200 years old, has been through devastating natural disasters, social and financial upheavals, neglect, decay, and restoration, and it continues to operate as a church here in Solvang.

Visitors can walk around the beautiful gardens, the well-maintained cemetery, the historic chapel, and the on-site museum, or schedule a guided tour to learn more about the mission. There is a small fee to tour the Mission Santa Inés - at the time of writing the cost for adults is $8 for self-guided tours and $12 for docent-led tours. History lovers will enjoy the incredible collection of restored paintings and artworks, artifacts, original mission bells, etc. There is even a gift shop so you can take a souvenir home to remember your visit.

Many of us grew up loving the fairy tales written by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen - the Ugly Duckling, The Little Mermaid, The Princess and The Pea, and so many more. So what better place for a museum in his honor? This small museum and bookstore is free to enter and explore. Learn some things you may not have known about this talented storyteller and amazing artist (who knew?), see some cool exhibits including a printing press, and even pick up a copy of one of your favorite titles.

Pronounced “Elverhoy” and meaning “Elves’ Hill,” this museum takes its name from a famous play in Denmark, written in 1828 and still being performed today. Just outside of the touristy center of town, the structure itself is as worthy of a visit as the museum. Elverhøj Museum’s art and exhibits are housed in a historic hand-crafted farmhouse. It showcases the history of Solvang and is one of the few museums outside of Denmark itself to focus on the country’s culture and the experience of Danish Americans.

You will notice at least a few of them without seeking them out, but Solvang’s iconic windmills are worth mentioning. They not only add to the town’s distinguished character, Danish architecture, and Old World charm but they are inspired by a past era in Denmark when windmills were traditionally used for energy to grind grain. There are a total of six windmills in the town, four of which are in the downtown area. Arguably the most photographed structure in town is known as Solvang Windmill, located on Alisal Road, and though not functional, it does have iron sails that can turn in the wind. The other three windmills in downtown Solvang are located on Mission Drive and Copenhagen Drive.

Solvang Activities & Attractions

Wondering what to do in Solvang? Aside from shopping, eating and wine-tasting (which, believe me, you can and will do a lot of here), there are plenty of fun and interesting activities in Solvang to keep you entertained.

Also known as Theaterfest, Solvang Festival Theater is a unique performing arts center offering a variety of outdoor plays, concerts, and events in its 700-seat amphitheater throughout the year. From June through September each year, the theater is home to a theater company known as PCPA, a vocational training program that produces a huge variety of quality plays.

The family-owned and operated Solvang Trolley and Carriage Company offers two ways to get to know Solvang in a fun, old-fashioned way. The first is Solvang’s original horse-drawn trolley, also known as The Honen and modeled after an 1800s streetcar in Copenhagen, which operates on weekends and holidays. It is one of the last operating horse-drawn streetcars on an open street in the entire world. The other is a motorized trolley operating every day except for Tuesday. Whichever open-air trolley you board, you will discover the incredible architecture and sights throughout the town, hear fascinating stories of Solvang’s history and folk tales from costumed tour guides, and learn about local activities and events. You can also meet, pet, and learn about the beautiful horses that pull The Honen. Tickets are first-come, first-served and sold at the company’s Solvang Trolley Ice Cream Parlor (which, incidentally, serves up scoops of delicious McConnell’s ice cream!)

Enjoy a truly unique experience just outside of downtown at this amazing Ostrich ranch. I always bring first-timers to town here to see and feed these huge, quirky birds. Rare in this part of the world, the over 100 ostriches and emus at OstrichLand USA wander free on a spacious plain that resembles their native habitat. The highlight is being able to feed them. You can buy bowls of food in the gift shop and head outside for a one-of-a-kind experience that is as much fun as it is to watch (you’re going to want to have your camera ready.) The ostriches are very strong and attack the food like it’s their first one, so be sure to hold the bowl tight! If you visit between late winter and early spring, you will often be able to see adorable emu chicks and during summer, you the ostrich babies are usually ready for public viewing. Don’t miss the gift shop where you will find unique items and even fresh eggs.

Shops & Boutiques In Solvang

Vinhus has long been one of my favorite shops in town. I have never been to Solvang without stopping here and, in fact, I have many times made a detour on a trip past the area just to do a little shopping here. Vinhus is essentially a wine and cheese shop with a divine assortment of unique items. They have some beautiful wines that I haven’t seen elsewhere and the cheese selection makes me want to live here.

Do you love charcuterie, picnics, or making custom gift baskets (even for yourself!)? This will be your new favorite spot because they also carry all sorts of meats, crackers, cookies, snacks, pasta, jams and sauces, coffee beans, specialty candies and chocolates, assorted gifts, and tons more - all in a tiny shop with friendly staff.

If there is a true one-stop shop in Solvang, it has to be The Copenhagen House. If you look it up on Google, it is classified as a jewelry store, but that is a huge under-explanation of what this place is. What you will actually find is a browsing wonderland. Yes, you can shop for stunning jewelry, but you will also find home goods, quirky gifts and trinkets, traditional and imported items from Denmark, legos and toys, and a small museum - The Viking Museum, to be exact. Here you will find a collection of genuine historic Viking artifacts including swords, coins, jewelry, and a replica of a 9th-century Viking ship.

Solvang Toyland is another of my favorite shops in town. It is an old-fashioned toy store where you can’t help feeling a bit nostalgic. It is a small space full of stuffed animals, toys, puzzles, and games, including some you may have forgotten about and you don’t often find anywhere else. Whether you have kids to shop for or want to feel like a kid again yourself, this is a worthy stop.

Restaurants In Solvang

As with any tourist town, Solvang has developed over the years and there are now many dining options, from traditional Danish goodies to international cuisines. It’s not hard to find a delicious meal in town.

Solvang is known for its bakeries and one of the most popular, for good reason, is Olsen’s. Owned and operated by a third-generation baker with his great-grandfather’s recipes from Denmark, Olsen’s has won many awards. Enjoy authentic Danish pastries, breads, cookies, and cakes either in the shop with a wonderful cup of coffee in the morning, for dessert after dinner, or packed up to take with you.

I cannot talk about local eateries without mentioning Solvang Restaurant. If you’re a movie buff, you will get a kick out of the fact that the restaurant was featured in the movie Sideways (in fact, there is a little plaque at the booth that appears in the dining scene.) The restaurant serves delicious Danish breakfast and lunch in a relaxed dining room.

Every time I visit, I stop by the walk-up window for some traditional Aebleskiver - Danish ball-shaped pancakes served with raspberry jam and powdered sugar. If you have never had them, they are a must-try. They are perfect for a light breakfast, a mid-day re-fuel snack, or dessert (you can get them piled with ice cream!)

If you ask 10 people where to have breakfast in Solvang, I am fairly confident that seven or eight of them will tell you to go to Paula’s Pancake House. Always busy and worth the wait, this homey restaurant has an old-fashioned country cafe vibe and generous portions of delicious food. The Danish pancakes are, not surprisingly, very popular and a must-try. The menu is pretty extensive and includes four yummy versions of Eggs Benedict. Breakfast is served all day and there is a lunch menu with lots of great sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

For dinner, we recommend Mad & Vin at The Landsby hotel. It has become a favorite and features fresh wine country-inspired fare using seasonal ingredients from right here on California’s central coast. The restaurant also offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options - truly something for everyone. Enjoy your meal in the lovely dining room or on the outdoor patio and pair it with a great selection of local wines, specialty beers, and craft cocktails.

Coffee, Wine, And Dessert In Solvang

I mentioned that Solvang is known for its bakeries, and the truth is this is where Danish culture really shines. One of my personal favorite bakeries in town is Birkholm’s. Not only are the pastries crave-worthy (I love the Napoleon and chocolate iced cream puffs!), but the espresso bar makes a mean latte. Birkholm’s also has some really good sandwiches, so if you happen to be stopping for just a short time in Solvang, you can get a coffee, lunch, and dessert in one delicious spot.

If you have a serious sweet tooth, you’ll want to stop by the Old Danish Food Farm’s Fudge Kitchen. Choose from at least a dozen flavors of fresh-made, gourmet fudge. The shop also makes caramel apples, salt water taffy, turtles, peanut brittle, Danish butter cookies, and other goodies. It is a great spot to grab a gift for a fellow sweet lover. You can also grab a fresh waffle cone stacked with creamy ice cream at their ice cream shop next door.

One of the many well-reputed places to enjoy wine tasting is Arrowsmith’s Wine Bar. This friendly business is operated by a European couple who make wine right here in Solvang. The wine bar specializes in small-batch local wines as well as international wines, European beers, and shrubs. There is a menu of light food bites such as cheeses, salads, panini, and pastries. Even with its wine country locale, it may be surprising to know that this tiny town has over 25 wine tasting rooms each offering a unique experience! There are also a few spots to sample craft beers, including a cool speakeasy called The Backroom, hidden inside a wine and beer shop.

Nature In And Around Solvang

There are some wonderful opportunities to explore and enjoy nature in and around the darling town of Solvang.

Just north of downtown, you will find the delightful family-friendly Hans Christian Anderson Park. You will drive through a storybook castle archway to enter the park to find beautiful green spaces full of California Live Oak trees, scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for the kiddies.

If you are up for a little adventure, make your way to Santa Ynez Valley Horseback Rides in the next-door town of Buellton. There are a bunch of experiences for all ages, including an amazing 90-minute trail ride through the Santa Ynez Valley to the Santa Ynez River. You’ll experience up to four seasonal river crossings, one of which is a deep-water crossing near a cool beaver dam. The ride offers plenty of incredible views and lots of wildlife and is an unforgettable way to enjoy this region’s natural beauty.

The gorgeous blue Cachuma Lake, only about 10 minutes from downtown Solvang, is a must-visit in my opinion. I have camped here several times and enjoyed picnics in the stunning day-use area overlooking one of the prettiest bodies of water in SoCal. Whether you want to enjoy a tranquil afternoon taking in the views, go for a long walk, do some fishing, play a round of frisbee golf, or hit the water by boat or kayak, you will love this lake. There is a restaurant at the marina and a cute little general store with gifts, fishing and camping supplies, snacks, ice cream, etc., and even a little gas station with prices that rival those in town.

So, are you ready for an amazing small-town getaway that will make you feel a world away? With so many fantastic things to do (and eat) in Solvang - and this handy Solvang travel guide to help you plan - what are you waiting for? I adore this picture-perfect little town, and I just know you will, too!