Solvang Windmill — Attraction in Solvang

Visiting Solvang, California: A Taste of Denmark in the Heart of California. Solvang is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Here is how you get started on this journey.

Getting to Solvang By Car: • From Los Angeles (North): Take US-101 North for about two hours, exit at CA-246 in Buellton, and head east to Solvang.

• From San Francisco (South): Drive US-101 South for approximately four hours, exit at CA-246, and follow signs to Solvang.

By Bus or Shuttle: • Several bus and shuttle services connect nearby cities like Santa Barbara and Solvang, making it accessible for travelers without a car.

Parking • Street Parking: Free and available throughout the village, though it may fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.

• Public Lots: Free parking lots are located near downtown Solvang, including one on Copenhagen Drive and Alisal Road.

Exploring Solvang

Copenhagen Drive • Shops and Boutiques: Stroll along Copenhagen Drive, Solvang’s main street, lined with unique shops selling Scandinavian gifts, handmade crafts, and home décor.

• Restaurants and Bakeries: Enjoy Danish cuisine at charming eateries. Be sure to try local favorites like aebleskivers (pancake balls) and kringle (a flaky almond pastry).

Outdoor Activities • Walking and Biking: Explore the village and surrounding countryside on foot or by bike. Scenic trails and quiet streets make for a relaxing journey.

• Wine Tasting: Solvang is in the heart of wine country, so stop by tasting rooms like Carivintas Winery or Casa Cassara Winery to sample local varietals.

Historical Sites • Elverhøj Museum of History & Art: Dive into Solvang’s Danish roots with exhibits featuring traditional crafts, artifacts, and stories of the town’s founding.

• Old Mission Santa Inés: Established in 1804, this historic mission offers beautiful gardens, a museum, and a peaceful retreat from the bustling village.

• Hans Christian Andersen Museum: Celebrate the life of the Danish author of beloved fairy tales like The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling.

Seasonal Events • Danish Days Festival: Held each September, this event features parades, folk dancing, and traditional food.

• Solvang Julefest: In December, the village transforms into a winter wonderland with holiday lights, carolers, and a Christmas market.

What to Eat in Solvang • Danish Pastries: Visit bakeries like Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery or Mortensen’s Bakery for authentic treats.

• Smørrebrød: These open-faced sandwiches are a Danish staple, served at local restaurants like The Copenhagen Sausage Garden. • Local Wines: Pair your meals with award-winning wines from nearby vineyards.

• Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Try seasonal dishes at upscale spots like Mad & Vin in The Landsby Hotel.

Where to Stay in Solvang • The Landsby: A boutique hotel with modern Scandinavian design and an on-site restaurant.

• Wine Valley Inn & Cottages: Offers cozy European-style accommodations, perfect for a romantic getaway.

• Hadsten House Inn: Known for its comfortable rooms and relaxing spa services.

• RV Parks and Campgrounds: Flying Flags RV Resort in nearby Buellton provides glamping options.

Tips for Visiting • Weather: Solvang enjoys mild weather year-round, but summer and fall are particularly delightful. Bring a light jacket for cool evenings.

• Timing: Weekends and holidays are busy; consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.

• Reservations: Book accommodations, dining, and activities in advance, especially during festivals and peak seasons

Have a...

We visited this small city on July 15, 2024 when leaving Santa Barbara traveling Carmel-by-the-Sea. I truly enjoyed the time I spent here and wish I had more to explore and take in all it has to offer. The windmills are very nice and a staple of the city. They have a very unique history!!

They also have a very nice park and the famous mermaid statue which is quite small.

The flowers and greenery are simply beautifully even the yards are filled with color. The Elverhog museum has a beautiful garden with tables to sit and have lunch. This city has so much to offer if looking for a beautiful place to relax and enjoy life!

I highly recommend visiting this peaceful and quaint city. I truly love how they have held on to the unique and rich history of its Dutch settlers ❤️❤️

I was able to visit the Hans Christian Andersen and Elverhog Museums as well as visit its famous bakery.

History from cities website:

Eventful Dates 1804 - Mission Santa Ines is founded in the present day city of Solvang, and named after St. Agnes of Rome.

1911 - Solvang was founded by three Danish immigrants who purchased nearly 10,000 acres of prime land in the Santa Ynez Valley.

1912 - Construction of irrigation systems and farms began, crops planted.

1914 - Construction of Atterdag College.

1928 - The Lutheran church. It was the first building to incorporate traditional Danish architecture, and in the 1930s, residents started building their homes in the Danish medieval style.

1939, 1960, 1976 - Solvang visited by Danish royalty.

1947 - Solvang was made famous nationwide by being featured in a Saturday Evening Post article.

1951 - The Solvang Municipal Improvement District (SMID) was formed.

1961 - Solvang celebrated its Golden Jubilee.

1985 - Solvang incorporated as a general law city..

2011 - Solvang celebrated its Centennial.

For more details and images please visit the...

We arrived later than planned, around 4:45pm, right when the sun was going down. There was such a long time of cars exiting Solvang, but it was still very crowded in the town. We found street parking really quickly and saw a long line at one bakery and went in line to join the crowd, assuming this bakery must be really good. The town is really cute looking and the lights turn on at dusk and makes it look more festive. It’s pretty but not as pretty as Harry Potter World with Christmas decor, in my opinion. The windmill is very small and was not very impressive for us. The Danish pastries were yummy but on the sweeter side. I think stopping by Solvang is something cute to do for just a quick walk through for coffee and pastries before heading to your next destination on a road trip. I wouldn’t spend a whole day...