California is known for its West Coast beach vibes, LA culture, and free-spirit personality. If you travel down the state from the woodsy North end to sunny SoCal, you’ll find some of the most unique and enticing towns. Solvang, California is a quaint town located in Santa Ynez valley. Solvang is established as a picturesque Danish town, filled with European architecture, Danish food, museums, and some of the most desirable wineries. 

Appearing like a scene out of a fairytale storybook, the town is both mesmerizing and exciting. Consider traveling to Solvang during Christmas season to experience a Danish holiday ambiance, or participate in some wine tasting at the countryside’s enchanting vineyards. To help guide you through your trip to Solvang, here are some essential things to put on your itinerary:

Solvang, California – Travel Itinerary 

Solvang Grape Stomp

The Solvang Grape Stomp is a large street festival in which visitors can make wine all on their own. Additionally, guests can taste wines derived from all over Southern California, as well as small plates and snacks. Street markets and live entertainment flood the downtown area as the festival continues, which makes for a great all-day celebration. 

Boutique Shopping

Given that Solvang is centered around Danish culture, the shopping scene is as eccentric as could be. Gift shops, handmade goods, Danish toys, and fine arts are common to find in Solvang, along with incredible book stores and retail shops.

Notable Stores in Solvang

For kids: 

• Solvang Toyland
• The Sock Loft 
• Atterdag Kids

Speciality & Gift Shops 

• Jule Hus
• Vinhus 
• Rassmussen’s Solvang

Bakeries & Candy Shops

• Swedish Candy Factory
• Old Danish Food Farm Fudge Kitchen
• Danish Mill Bakery

Home Decor

• The ARTS Connection
• The Home Connection

Retail

• European Fashion and Gifts
• Solvang Shoe Store
• Esko Esko 

Horseback Riding, Cycling, and Scenic Hikes

Discover the heights of the Santa Ynez Valley with a horseback riding tour. This is one of the best ways to experience the countryside, and it’s also one of the most glamorous. Certified trainers will guide you through brief lessons on how to ride your designated horse, and in a group you will travel alongside the trails.  

On the Santa Ynez Valley Horseback Riding website, you can find all horseback riding tours of different routes, difficulty, and time.

Two other exceptional ways to see the countryside are by cycling and hiking. There are various trails just outside of Solvang that are popular for sightseeing, and some tours on Viator even include a ride through wine country (which features tastings, of course). 

Theater and Live Performances

Theater is a huge part of Solvang’s charming personality, so shows are held on a frequent basis. Musicals, dramas, comedy, you name it – Solvang is the center for entertainment when it comes to the performing arts. Additionally, concerts are recurring in the area, which you can find a schedule for on the Solvang Theater Fest website. 

Solvang Danish Days 

One of the most elaborate festivals in Solvang is Danish Days. Parades, performances, dancing, and lots of beer flood the streets of Solvang in the multi-day event. The exuberant festival features authentic Danish food and live entertainment throughout the party’s entire duration. 

The schedule for Solvang Danish Days can be found here

Wineries to Visit in Solvang 

If you end up in Solvang, you have to visit at least one of the many wineries in town. The wine scene is part of what makes Solvang so reputable, and people travel from all over to experience it. Solvang is propped right on the countryside, about 2 hours from Santa Barbara, which is one of the most dreamy vineyard locations in the country. Here are some of the best wineries in or around Solvang: 

Rideau Vineyards

An old-cottage style home centered in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley is transformed to a tasting room and vineyard. Rideau also offers a wide selection of fines, including locally grown options. Its intimate setting makes it the perfect spot to get away and relax, not to mention the vineyard fields are absolutely breathtaking. 

Buttonwood Farm Winery and Vineyard

Billowing orchards and delightful farms are what make up Buttonwood Farm. This winery is perfect for families, couples, and groups alike, and it’s even a pet-friendly establishment. It’s one of the best places to enjoy the rural scenery and sip on some incredibly crisp wine selections, such as Sauvignon Blanc.

Sevtap Winery Tasting Room

Sevtap Winery Tasting Room is located directly in Solvang off of Copenhagen Drive, depicting the town’s Danish culture. It’s a fun, eccentric establishment that’s propped beside an old-school windmill. Outdoor seating is available for guests to enjoy the plethora of red and white wine options as well as delicious plates. 

Rusack Vineyards

One of the most magical vineyards on the list is Rusack. Located only 10 minutes from Solvang, you don’t have to travel far from the Danish wonderland. The endless hills that surround the winery make you feel as if you’re in a different land – one that consists of almost 50 acres. 

Rusack also boasts an impressive list of wines to choose from, so there’s no lack of enjoyment there. Consider tasting their small plate or snack collection to pair with your favorite beverage.