Traveling, as fun as it is, takes one heck of a hit to your wallet. Which in turn leaves us in this constant state of “you only live once, but I also have to pay my bills.” But what if could satisfy your travel bug on a budget? Not only is California a great travel destination in general. It also has tons of opportunities to step into other countries without an expensive plane ticket. Solvang, a Danish village, is a great way to feel line you are traveling onto Denmark without leaving Southern California.
More about this city that looks like Denmark
Solvang is a charming city located in Santa Barbara County, California, United States. It is situated in the Santa Ynez Valley, approximately 35 miles northwest of Santa Barbara. Solvang was founded in 1911 by a group of Danish immigrants seeking to create a community reminiscent of their homeland.
The city’s name “Solvang” translates to “sunny fields” in Danish, and it has maintained a strong Danish influence in its architecture, culture, and traditions. This has earned Solvang the nickname “Danish Capital of America.” The town’s unique and picturesque Danish-style buildings make it a popular tourist destination and a delightful place to explore.
What to do in Solvang, California
Solvang, California is a small town. You can walk around the entirety of it and not even break a sweat. That being said, the things to do in Solvang are rather limited. A two-night stay here is plenty to relax and explore this city. But be warned! Because it is a small town, things close pretty early. Keep that in mind as you plan your day.
Ostrichland
Located on the edge of the city, Ostrichland is probably the only real “activity” in Solvang, California. Book your reservation time slot online. From the time that this blog was written in September 2023, adult admission costs $7, military is $5, and child prices are $3. Even better is that you can feed the ostriches and emus while you are there! A feeding tray costs $1, and my husband and I got 3 of them when we went. For us, three was the perfect amount. But be aware that sometimes they will pause public feeding to ensure that their animals are not overeating.
Bottomless mimosas for $23
Ready to really take your small time fun to the next level? Then stop by Coast Range for bottomless mimosas for $23 per person! This restaurant is located right on the main road into Solvang. This restaurant is open Wednesday to Monday, with brunch being 10am to 4pm. One thing to note is that the bottomless mimosas are not on an unlimited timer. You will have 90 minutes to enjoy your bottomless mimosas.
High Roller Tiki Lounge in Solvang, California
This bar was a little out of place in such a small town. But I love tiki bars so I was excited to see one in Solvang! The High Roller Tiki Lounge has such a fun atmosphere and the drinks are amazing. They even host live music on some nights.
Hans Christian Anderson Museum
Stop by The Book Loft and head upstairs to this tiny museum. It features books and exhibits about the legendary Danish author, Hans Christian Andersen. Open from 10am to 5pm, this museum is free to the public. You can even walk across the street to visit Solvang’s very own Little Mermaid Fountain statue!
Overall, Solvang, California is a place you can visit for a short trip. But I wouldn’t plan an entire vacation around staying here for the sole fact that there just isn’t a whole lot to do. It is in the Santa Barbara County though so if you plan on vacationing in the Santa Barbara area, definitely give this small Danish town a looksee!
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