5 Must Do Things in Solvang, California

Travel tipsTravel

Feb 3

"To travel is to live."

-Hans Christian Anderson

You may have heard of Solvang, California from the Oscar-winning movie, Sideways, or perhaps you've just known about this little Danish settlement that looks quite European, but either way, it is worth the trip to see and taste with your own senses.

Solvang was established in 1911 during a time when many Danes were emigrating from Denmark and settling across the United States. The city has been designed with Danish style architecture and does have a feel of a Danish Village. Presently, you can still visit historic Danish churches and little museums that celebrate Danish and American culture and history.

Depending on your travel style you may want to make a weekend of your visit to Solvang, a day trip from another part of southern California, or a full week to take your time and experience all that the area has to offer (there are over 125 vineyards in the area). In this post, you'll get the top 5 things to do if you're making a day trip to Solvang.

Here are the 5 things you should not miss on your trip to Solvang:

1. Eat Danish pastries

There are five authentic bakeries and some do have gluten-free options if you need them, like Birkholm's.

2. Eat at the infamous Paula's Pancakes

The popular item on the pancake house menu is the Danish pancakes.

3. Stroll around town

Check out the windmills and Little Mermaid statue.

4. Wine tasting and yummy restaurant exploring

It's no wonder Miles in Sideways loved Solvang and its Pinot so much. There are 20 tasting rooms around the downtown area and plenty of delicious eateries to explore after you visit Paula's.

5. Pop into a Museum

There are several local museums that will display Danish history and culture. A most popular one is the Hans Anderson Museum.

Bonus!

If you're driving up to Solvang on Highway 154, take a quick stop at the Vista Point over the Santa Ynez Valley for leg stretching and a gorgeous scenic view of these mountains.