Solvang

Solvang, California, United States

With six small towns and pristine natural surroundings, the Santa Ynez Valley is ideal for folks from California and beyond. Two hours from Los Angeles, our corner of the state is both convenient and uncrowded, a getaway at its best. Plan your next visit soon, and enjoy these five top things to do in the Santa Ynez Valley.

1529 Mission Dr
Solvang, CA

Solvang, California, is the kind of town that completely enchants a visitor. The “Danish Capital of America” was founded over 100 years ago, when a community of Danish-Americans set up home base. What resulted is a city infused with Old World architecture, folklore and charm that feels truly transportive. Solvang’s main street, Mission Drive, and its surrounding neighborhoods are dotted with windmills, thatched rooftops and bakeries. Indulge in a traditional sweet treat and stroll the ideal “walking around” town. Or hop on an open-air trolley for a tour highlighting stops like the Elverhøj Museum and Hans Christian Andersen statue.

Santa Barbara County, CA

Book a tour with Sky’s the Limit Ballooning, a family-owned and operated business that knows the area well. Bring along a bottle of wine and your camera for a tour that’s both thrilling and extraordinarily peaceful.

24 Zaca St
Buellton, CA

If you’re into cars, Americana or the fascinating art of collecting, you must visit the Mendenhall Museum of Gasoline Pumps & Petroliana. This private collection in Buellton includes pumps, globes and vintage signs, telling the story of America’s love of the road. Founder Jack Mendenhall spent 50 years compiling his collection, and his son and his wife now maintain the museum. Tours are available by appointment only for just $15, and they do not disappoint.

2449 Baseline Ave
Ballard, CA

More into two wheels than four? No problem. The Santa Ynez Valley has cyclists covered with some of the most scenic guided tours in California. Book a daily or even mutil-day bike tour with Santa Barbara Wine Country Cycling, offering exceptional tours since 2005. This tour operator offers many options, from easy E-bike tours amid wineries to challenging trail rides up Figueroa Mountain. Your day can also include farm-to-table lunch, stops at vineyards, craft beer tastings and much more. Get a look at our valley from a unique perspective, with the help of professional, local guides.

181 Industrial Way
Buellton, CA

Stand in line briefly at Industrial Eats in Buellton, and it won’t be long until you hear something like: “Oh, yes, we’re from San Francisco. We had to come back after our last trip when we tried the most incredible uni and prosciutto.” Industrial Eats is a place to try unexpected new flavors in chill surroundings, curated and prepared by the very best. A walk-up counter and communal tables make for a hyper-casual setting, while the innovative eats seem right out of Food & Wine. It’s an exciting, unforgettable stop for foodies.