Solvang, CA
Only a 45-minute drive from Santa Barbara, Solvang is a charming Danish-style getaway, nestled in the middle of Wine Country.
Midwestern Danes founded this village over 100 years ago when they traveled to settle around a 19th-century Spanish-colonial mission. I imagine they yearned for some California sun while in the dead of an Iowan winter.
Today, the village treasures its Danish heritage with a bit of kitsch and international flair. Rich in history and warm Christmas spirit, visit in December to soak in the twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Enjoy a stroll along Copenhagen Drive and a taste of Denmark at Solvang Restaurant, home of the Scandinavian pastry: Aebleskiver.
Solvang is an excellent base for exploring the Santa Ynez Valley, with plenty of accommodation to choose from in the village. If you prefer to avoid cutesy motels, The Landsby instead offers a modern Scandinavian aesthetic and is also an ideal starting point for exploring Solvang’s shopping nooks and bakeries.
Visit boutique shops across the street, like The Giving Ink for local crafts. A few blocks away, the Solvang Farmers Market is where California culture meets Danish tradition on Wednesday afternoons.
Small Town USA
Villages like Solvang have so much to offer curious travelers. While it’s difficult to travel internationally this year, we still have a melting pot of cultures right here in our backyard. Bavarian-themed Leavenworth, WA comes to mind as another domestic example. Wherever you are, what are some of your favorite local gems?
Interesting! I thought most Europeans migrated from the East Coast, so I didn’t imagine they crossed and built such a tasteful town in CA. I don’t know why (maybe because it also has winery spots), but it reminds me of Niagara on the lake in Canada. It’s serene as well, and there’s a small theater, which is very admirable! I could visit there in a couple of hours from NY, but it’s hard to go as the border is shut down. Now I feel like discovering hidden gems around here before getting too cold!ha
I’ve never been to Niagara on the lake; it looks gorgeous and now at the top of my list when we can travel to Canada. Thanks!
I had been to there in Oct with family in July. The weather was pretty hot at that time. However, we had great time to look around some decent shops, ice cream, and Germany sausage with draft beer. I would definitely visit this wonderful town again! Thanks for your sharing:)
I love Solvang! My family and I used to go there frequently when we were going to Vandenberg AFB. Solvang was always a “must stop” location along the way!