Day Trip to Solvang From Los Angeles: A Complete Guide
If you are looking for a perfect day trip from Los Angeles, look no further than Solvang. Located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is a unique Danish town with historic architecture, wine-tasting rooms, art galleries, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. This picturesque Southern Californian town is just a few hours’ drive from Los Angeles. It offers a charming blend of Danish and Californian culture, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and wine enthusiasts.
We asked Bernadette from Explorer Chick to create this guide for taking a day trip to Solvang from Los Angeles.
How Far is Solvang From Los Angeles
Solvang is about 141 miles north of Los Angeles up the coast. It takes about 2.5 hours to drive or about 4 hours by train.
Getting to Solvang From Los Angeles
Getting to Solvang from Los Angeles is relatively easy. The most convenient way is to drive; the journey takes approximately two to three hours, depending on traffic.
Head north on US-101 and then take CA-154, which will take you through the scenic Santa Barbara County and the stunning coastal landscape of Southern California. Driving along the Central California coast, you are treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding rolling hills.
The next best option is to take the Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner train from Los Angeles Union Station to the Santa Barbara Amtrak Station where you can transfer to Solvang. The trip costs about $37 one-way.
You can also take the Greyhound bus from Union Station or Downtown Los Angeles to Santa Barbara to transfer onto the Amtrak. A one-way bus ticket costs about $14-$18.
Keep in mind that traveling by public transportation takes around 4 hours, which makes it a bit tricky to use for just one day. You will likely want to consider staying the night in Solvang or Santa Barbara if you go with this option. For a day trip to Solvang from Los Angeles, you will really want to drive.
Is 1 Day Enough in Solvang?
Yes, one day is enough for a day trip from Los Angeles to Solvang. Visitors can explore the main attractions of Solvang, such as its Danish-style architecture, museums, and unique shops, and enjoy local wine tasting, a stroll in Hans Christian Andersen Park, and indulge in Danish pastries. However, to fully immerse in Solvang’s cozy atmosphere and enjoy its culture, it’s recommended to stay overnight.
Top 19 Sights and Things to Do on a Day Trip in Solvang
One of the highlights of a day trip to Solvang is exploring the town’s unique Danish architecture and charm. Solvang was founded in 1911 by a group of Danish immigrants. Walking through the streets of Solvang feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with its picturesque buildings, flower-lined streets, and Danish flags waving in the breeze.
The town square of Solvang, also known as “Copenhagen Drive,” is the heart of the town and a bustling hub of activity. Here are some of the key attractions and sights you can see in Solvang’s town square:
1. Danish-style Architecture: The town square of Solvang is lined with buildings that feature unique Danish-inspired architecture, including half-timbered facades, thatched roofs, and colorful murals. The buildings are adorned with Danish flags, flower boxes, and traditional Danish decor, creating a picturesque and charming atmosphere.
2. The Round Tower: A replica of Rundetaarn, a famous 17th-century Danish structure. The tower houses a delicious pizza shop.
3. Danish Capital Statue: In the center of the town square, you’ll find the Danish Capital statue, a bronze statue of a Danish soldier standing atop a granite pedestal. The statue was a gift from Denmark to Solvang in 1971, commemorating the town’s Danish heritage and status as the “Danish Capital of America.”
4. Windmills: Solvang is famous for its windmills, which are iconic symbols of the town’s Danish heritage. You can find several windmills in and around the town square, including the vintage Solvang Windmill, a functioning windmill that houses a gift shop and a museum showcasing Danish antiques.
5. Danish-style Fountains: The town square is adorned with several, including the famous Little Mermaid Fountain, a replica of the iconic statue in Copenhagen, Denmark. The fountains add to the charm and ambiance of the town square, providing a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery.
6. Flowers and Gardens: Solvang is known for its beautiful flower-lined streets and gardens; the town square is no exception. You’ll find colorful flower beds, hanging baskets, and well-manicured gardens throughout the town square, adding to the overall ambiance.
7. Danish-style Street Signs: As you wander through the town square, you’ll notice that the street signs in Solvang are written in both English and Danish, adding to the town’s unique Danish charm. The Danish-style street signs are adorned with decorative elements and provide an interesting cultural touch to the town’s atmosphere.
8. Horse-drawn Trolley Rides: One of the popular attractions in Solvang’s town square is the horse-drawn trolley rides. You can take a leisurely ride on a quaint horse-drawn carriage around the town, offering a unique perspective of Solvang’s Danish architecture and picturesque streets.
9. Festive Decorations: Depending on the time of year, the town square of Solvang may be decorated with festive decorations, such as Christmas lights during the holiday season or Danish flags and flowers during special events and festivals. These decorations add to the cheerful atmosphere of the town square.
Or, for a taste of Christmas all year round, stop into Jule Hus, where you will find an impressive exhibit of blown glass ornaments, wooden nutcrackers, nativities originating from various parts of the world, and more.
10. Go Shopping: The town square is lined with plenty of shops offering Scandinavian gifts, souvenirs, and handicrafts for some shopping. In fact, Solvang is home to more than 150 one-of-a-kind shops.
Some of the best stores include:
11. Enjoy the Museums: Solvang boasts several museums that showcase the town’s Danish heritage. The Elverhøj Museum is a Danish-American museum that exhibits Danish artifacts and artwork. And the Hans Christian Andersen Museum pays homage to the famous Danish author with exhibits about his life and works.
A few other notable museums include:
12. Explore Delicious Danish Food: If you are a foodie, Solvang is definitely a place to satisfy your taste buds. When it comes to dining, Solvang has various options to suit every palate.
👉🏽 Take a food-tasting tour of Solvang with a nice balance of trying unique foods and learning some history and fun facts about Solvang.
✔️ LEARN MORE & BOOK HERE
The town is known for its Danish bakeries, where you can indulge in delicious pastries and fresh bread. Birkholm’s Bakery is known for its wide range of Danish treats, including the famous aebleskiver (round pancakes). You’ll see many people walking around with a plate of fried dough covered in powdered sugar with a side of jam. The sweet treat is an excellent snack but can be pretty messy to eat!
Various restaurants serve Danish and Californian cuisine and other international flavors. When it’s time for lunch, you can choose from cozy cafes serving open-faced sandwiches to upscale restaurants offering Nordic-inspired dishes; there are options to suit all tastes. You can also find local farm-to-table restaurants that highlight the region’s fresh produce and local wines.
Some of the best restaurants to check out are:
13. Go Wine Tasting: Wine tasting is a popular activity in Solvang, and the town is home to over 120 wine-tasting rooms where you can sample local wines such as Royal Oaks Winery Tasting Room or CrossHatch Winery. The Santa Ynez Valley is renowned for its wine production so wine enthusiasts will be satisfied.
Solvang wineries offer varietals, like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, and many have beautiful vineyard views. You can also take a wine-tasting tour to nearby Los Olivos, a charming wine-country town known for its boutique wineries and tasting rooms.
👉🏽 Looking for a wine-tasting tour in Solvang? Here are the top three options:
✔️ Private 4-Hour Winery Tour in the Santa Ynez Valley
✔️ Santa Ynez Valley Biking and Wine Tasting Tour
✔️ Private Guided Pedicab Tour of Solvang with Wine Tasting
14. Take a guided walking tour of Solvang: to learn about the town’s history, culture, and architecture from knowledgeable local tour guides.
15. Visit the Art Galleries: If you’re interested in arts and culture, Solvang won’t disappoint. The town is home to several art galleries that showcase local talent.
16. Feed the Ostriches: Another unique outdoor activity is visiting Ostrichland USA, where you can get up close with the over 100 ostriches emus to feed them and buy fresh eggs.
17. Mission Santa Inés: For history buffs, a visit to Mission Santa Inés is a must. The church is the largest of the California missions and is considered one of the finest examples of Spanish Colonial architecture in the state. The mission’s rich history is integral to California’s cultural heritage.
Mission Santa Barbara is another Spanish mission in the area. Located about 45 minutes south of Solvang, Mission Santa Barbara is one of the oldest Spanish missions in California, dating back to the 18th century. The mission features beautiful Spanish architecture, stunning gardens, and a museum showcasing the region’s history.
18. Enjoy the Incredible Scenery: If you’re interested in outdoor recreation, the town is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the nearby Los Padres National Forest, which offers hiking trails for all experience levels. Or, simply take a horse-drawn trolley ride around town and enjoy the sunny fields, rolling hills, and coastal live oak trees that dot the landscape.
Also nearby is the Santa Ynez River Trail, which provides scenic views of the surrounding hills and countryside. These are just some of the great hiking in California, which include Yosemite National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, and the epic Pacific Crest Trail.
19. Catch a Local Festival: Special events and festivals are held throughout the year, including Danish Days, a celebration of Solvang’s Danish heritage with live music, dancing, and traditional food. Christmas is also a popular time to visit the cute town since you feel transported to a European Christmas village. The town hosts a slew of activities to make visitors feel the holiday spirit.
Where Can You Stop Between Los Angeles and Solvang?
If you’re driving from Los Angeles to Solvang, there are several great stops along the way to break up the journey and see some of the sights in the surrounding areas. Some recommended stops include:
- Malibu: A beachfront city known for its beautiful coastline and celebrity homes.
- Ventura: A charming coastal town with a vibrant downtown, great shopping, and beautiful beaches.
- Ventura Pier: A historic pier with stunning views of the coastline and the nearby Channel Islands.
- Downtown Ventura: A lively area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
- Ventura Botanical Gardens: A beautiful garden with hiking trails and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.
- Santa Barbara: A beautiful coastal city with a historic downtown, great shopping, and beautiful beaches.
- Stearns Wharf: A historic pier with great restaurants and beautiful views of the coastline.
- State Street: A vibrant street with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
- Santa Barbara County Courthouse: A beautiful historic building with stunning 360 views of the city from its tower.
- El Capitan State Beach: A scenic beach park with hiking trails, tide pools, and picnic areas.
- Gaviota State Park: A popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, offering beautiful views of the coastline.
- Buellton: A small town just outside Solvang, home to several great wineries and restaurants.
These stops offer a chance to explore some of the unique and beautiful sights of the Santa Ynez Valley region and make the drive from Los Angeles to Solvang more enjoyable.
Where to Stay in Solvang
Sold on visiting Solvang? In case you decide to stay for longer than just one day, here are the top three places to stay in the night in Solvang, or you can stop in Santa Barbara and come up for a day trip from there.
💎 High-End: The Genevieve ★★★★ | 🏆 Rating: 9.6/10
The Genevieve is a dream destination for a relaxing vacation. Not only does it offer breakfast included in the stay, but it’s also a pet-friendly establishment. The onsite fine-dining restaurant, The Victor, is a highlight of the hotel experience. The restaurant boasts an impressive brunch and happy hour, with an array of delectable dishes to choose from. Additionally, The Genevieve’s location near all the vineyards makes it the perfect spot for wine enthusiasts.
⭐️ Mid-Range: Mirabelle Inn and Restaurant ★★★★ | 🏆 Rating: 9.2/10
The Mirabelle Inn is a hidden gem in the heart of Solvang. Its prime location makes it an ideal choice for exploring the town’s many attractions. The hotel offers a unique experience with its attached winery, coffee shop/cafe, and garden. The onsite fine-dining restaurant, First & Oak, serves up modern European cuisine, creating a memorable culinary experience. The luxurious and comfortable accommodations, combined with the exceptional amenities and services, make the Mirabelle Inn and Restaurant an excellent choice for a relaxing getaway.
💲Budget: Hamlet Inn ★★ | 🏆 Rating: 8.6/10
The Hamlet Inn is a great budget option for those looking to explore Solvang’s charming amenities. The hotel’s location is ideal, situated close to everything the town has to offer. Guests can enjoy free self-parking and take advantage of the complimentary bicycle rentals to explore the area at their own pace. The friendly and attentive staff are always ready to assist with any needs, making the Hamlet Inn a comfortable and convenient choice.
FAQs For a Day Trip From Los Angeles to Solvang
Yes, it is worth visiting Solvang for its charming Danish-style architecture, unique shops, museums, and wine tasting. The town’s cozy atmosphere, beautiful parks, and delicious Danish pastries are also a draw. Visitors can immerse themselves in Solvang’s culture and enjoy a fun day trip from Los Angeles or a more leisurely overnight stay.
To see the main attractions of Solvang, such as its Danish-style architecture, museums, and unique shops, one day is enough. Visitors can also enjoy local wine tasting, a stroll in Hans Christian Andersen Park, and indulge in Danish pastries. However, to fully immerse in Solvang’s cozy atmosphere and enjoy its culture, an overnight stay is recommended.
The best time to visit Solvang is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. During these seasons, visitors can enjoy Solvang’s outdoor activities, such as hiking and wine tasting, without the summer heat or winter crowds.
Weekdays are generally the best days to visit Solvang to avoid the weekend crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, plan your visit during the off-season in the spring or fall.
Yes, Solvang is a walkable town, and visitors can easily explore the main attractions on foot. The town’s Danish-style architecture, unique shops, and beautiful parks are all within walking distance of each other. Additionally, visitors can rent bikes or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore Solvang’s scenic countryside.
Solvang is known for its Danish-inspired cuisine, with several bakeries and restaurants offering traditional pastries, bread, and other Scandinavian delights. Some of the most popular foods in Solvang include:
Aebleskiver: A Danish-style pastry that is similar to a pancake but is round and ball-shaped.
Kringle: A sweet, flaky pastry filled with fruit, nuts, or other sweet ingredients.
Smorrebrod: An open-faced sandwich that typically features fish, cheese, and vegetables.
Danish sausage: A flavorful pork sausage seasoned with traditional Danish spices.
Meatballs: A classic Scandinavian dish that is often served with lingonberry sauce and boiled potatoes.
When visiting Solvang on a day trip from Los Angeles, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the town is very walkable. In addition, you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater, especially if visiting during the cooler months. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery, and some cash or a credit card to purchase souvenirs, food, and drinks.
Solvang is not located directly on the beach but is approximately 30 minutes away from the coastal city of Santa Barbara. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to reach several beautiful beaches, including Butterfly Beach and El Capitan State Beach.
Solvang is a small town, and its nightlife options are limited. However, visitors can enjoy wine tasting at local wineries, which often have evening events such as live music or wine-pairing dinners. There are also a few bars and pubs in the town, offering craft beers and cocktails.
The Solvang Festival Theater hosts theatrical performances, live music concerts (jazz, country, rock, etc.), the Julefest Nativity Pageant, and a variety of other events. Still, visitors should not expect a bustling nightlife scene in Solvang, and the town tends to be quieter in the evenings.
The cost of wine tasting in Solvang varies depending on the winery and the number of tastings. On average, a tasting fee ranges from $15 to $30 per person, and some wineries offer free tastings with the purchase of a bottle of wine. It’s best to check with individual wineries for their current pricing and tasting options.
CONCLUSION: Day Trip to Solvang From Los Angeles
Solvang is a vibrant and bustling area with unique Danish-inspired architecture, windmills, fountains, gardens, shops, and other attractions. It’s a perfect place to take a stroll, soak in the town’s ambiance, and experience the charm of a Danish village in the heart of Southern California. The short drive from Los Angeles makes it perfect for a quick day trip that will leave you feeling like you have been transported to Europe!
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☀️ California FAQs ☀️
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☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit California?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
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Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
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I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California?
I very highly recommend renting a car in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option.
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