Santa Barbara County, CA

The terms “wine country” and “family friendly” don’t often go hand in hand. But the Santa Ynez Valley is no ordinary wine country destination — a rare place that is as appealing to families as it is to foodies and wine-lovers.

Los Olivos

Los Olivos, California, United States

Hike rolling hills and take in the breathtaking vistas offered along hundreds of miles of Santa Ynez Valley trails, or visit an 80-foot waterfall at Nojoqui Falls Park. View native bald eagles, osprey, and hawks, or learn about the region’s cultural history, with boating and nature tours of Cachuma Lake.

2178 Mora Ave
Santa Ynez, CA

This is horse country, and there’s no better way to tap into Santa Ynez Valley’s Old West roots than with a horseback ride. With Vino Vaqueros, KAP Land & Cattle, and SYV Horseback Rides — just to name a few — the Valley offers no shortage of opportunity to create a memory that everyone in the family will be sure to cherish.

1624 Elverhoy Way
Solvang, CA

Founded in 1804, Old Mission Santa Inés has a rich history to unearth. And with its traditional Danish architecture and authentic bakeries, downtown Solvang itself is a testament to the Northern European roots of its early settlers. The Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum and Elverhoj Museum of History and Art are among the many museums that will both enlighten and entertain.

610 E Hwy 246
Solvang, CA

Ever feed an ostrich? It’s possible, along with Emus at Ostrichland USA, one of the many one-of-a-kind attractions in the Santa Ynez Valley. Spend time at Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch, introduce the kids to the works of Hans Christian Andersen Park, or rev things up at the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum.

Solvang

Solvang, California, United States

Turn Solvang into a giant game board with this fun scavenger hunt adventure. Combine the excitement of the Amazing Race with a two/three hour city adventure. Guided from any smart phone, teams make their way among well known and overlooked gems of the city, solving clues and completing challenges while learning local history. Your adventure takes you to see the great windmills, towers and bakeries as well as historic and cultural sights of this Danish town while you solve puzzles and challenges associated with the places you see. You will also visit the famous Mission grounds on your Quest and explore the history while having fun.

151 Sycamore Dr
Buellton, CA

The botanic garden is dedicated to bringing beauty, serenity and the joys of the physical environment to the community in which we live in ways that encourage appreciation and educations in the arts, a deeper understanding of the order of the natural world and the significance of nature in our lives.

3250 Alisal Rd
Solvang, CA

Walking the short trail to gaze at the falls makes what is already a stimulating setting even more memorable. Able to accommodate large groups, Nojoqui has become a favorite site for company and family outings. Its location is convenient, yet far enough from civilization to be refreshing. Nojoqui Falls is 1 &1/2 miles east of Highway 101 near Gaviota Pass. From Highway 101, take the Old Coast Road to Alisal Road; from Solvang, follow Alisal Road south to the park.

Santa Ynez, CA

Farm tours offer a window into what makes the Santa Ynez Valley the breadbasket of California’s Central Coast. Pick up produce at Finley Farms' honor stand where local chefs gather daily produce, or visit an olive oil sommelier such as Theo Stephan of Global Gardens and taste some of the most sought-after olive oils anywhere. Or visit Clairmont Farms, an entirely organic lavender farm, for an altogether different experience.

180 Ave of Flags
Buellton, CA

Whether interested in a dude ranch experience at the Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, a casual stay at the King Frederik Inn, “glamping” in a safari tent or vintage Airstream trailer at Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground, or something in between, the Santa Ynez Valley has family-friendly lodging options to fit an array of budgets and interests.