25 Best Things to Do in Solvang, California

Solvang is a little town with a charming European spirit located in the heart of California. It is a very special place influenced by Danish and Dutch settlers who arrived in that area hundreds of years ago.

Therefore, if you want to transport yourself to Northern Europe through Danish architecture, food, and culture, Solvang is the place to visit.

One of the best things about this charming, fascinating town is its location: it is located about 4.5 hours south of San Francisco and about 3 hours north of Los Angeles.

While visiting Solvang, you can also travel to Santa Barbara and explore the Santa Ynez Valley which is considered one of the hidden gems of California. 

TL;DR

Do you want to know what to see in Solvang, but don’t want to waste time reading? Here is a list of the main attractions and destinations in Solvang, California:

• Most significant landmark – Old Mission Santa Ines
• Best park – Hans Christian Andersen Park
• Best free activity – Everhoj Museum
• Best activity for kids – Sunny Fields Park
• Best activity for adults – Rusack Vineyards
• Best food – The best three restaurants in Solvang are: Bit O’Denmark, Copenhagen Sausage Garden, and  Mad & Vin. 
• Best nightlife – The best three nightclubs near Solvang are: The Red Piano, Chido Bar, and The Wicked Shamrock 
• Best all-around accommodation – The best three hotels in Solvang are Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, Hotel Corque, and The Landsby. 

Best & Fun Things To Do In Solvang, California

Are you looking for a break from your daily routine? You should visit Solvang is known as a scenic and stress-free gateway in California. If you are currently planning your trip to this Danish-like city, here is a list of different expensive and cheap things to do in Solvang: 

1. Visit Old Mission Santa Ines

Address: 1760 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463

If you enjoy local history and want to know more about it, visiting Old Mission Santa Ines is the right thing to do.

The mission is one of the most popular and most visited Solvang tourist attractions. It is one of the 21 historic old missions in California that was established by Franciscan priests. This happened in 1804.

Missions play an important role in the state’s history because they tell about colonization and the founding of the state. Since Old Mission Santa Ines is one of the oldest missions in California, it is definitely worth visiting. 

Today, this beautiful historic building is an active church, as well as a museum and gift shop. The museum collection features such artifacts as manuscripts, artwork, a selection of vestments, bells, and other things that had been used in the mission for decades. You can also tour Santa Ynez on a wine tour.

You should definitely visit the following parts of the mission: 

• Santa Ines Mission Museum – The collections in the museum will tell your rich history of Santa Ines. In order to explore the museum and its artifacts, you just need to pay $5. There is even a room in the museum that is dedicated to the Madonna Chapel with unique old paintings and a fascinating wood carving on the alter.  
• Chapel – The chapel in the mission is an active church that boasts traditional mission-style architecture. You can also see statues, paintings, and crucifixes in the chapel’s niches. 
• Cemetery and gardens – Once you leave the chapel, you can find yourself in a beautiful garden with different kinds of plants. The garden also features statues and a peaceful fountain. In addition, there is also a cemetery with over 1,700 graves, including the graves of the members of the clergy.  

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2. Go to Elverhoj Museum of History and Art 

Address: 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, CA 93463

The purpose of this unique Everhoj museum (which means “elves on a hill”)  is to collect and preserve the rich history of Solvang and Danish culture.

The museum itself is located in the house of one of the famous artistic families in the town. It was previously owned by a married couple – Viggo and Martha Brandt-Erichsen. 

The museum building is an 18th Century-style former home with impressive Danish architecture, ornamental ironwork, artisan wood carvings, and panels painted by hand.  

It is a community-based museum with collections of valuable artifacts that present Danish and Danish-American culture and spirit. It is interesting to note that the museum’s building itself is a great example of Scandinavian culture.

There are numerous exhibitions throughout the year, so a visit to the museum would be interesting for both adults and kids.

In addition, there are also regular workshops, classes, and various Danish events. You can also purchase Danish-themed and art-related souvenirs and items at the museum’s gift store. 

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Fort Bragg, California

3. Spend a day at Hans Christian Andersen Museum 

Address: 1680 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463

This museum is dedicated to the life and work of famous Danish author Hans Christian Andersen.  He wrote many fairy tales but is also known as a writer of novels, travel books, and plays.

The most popular and famous fairy tales he created are “The Little Match Girl,” “The Little Mermaid,” “The Red Shoes,” “The Snow Queen,” “The Princess And The Pea,” and others. In total, the writer wrote 161 fairy tales. 

The museum hosts various displays and exhibits. You can also engage in various activities offered at the museum, such as festivals, themed parties, and even mini-lectures. 

The museum is located on the second floor of The Book Loft Building and is operated by Ugly Duckling Foundation. It is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. 

See Related: Best California Road Trips

 4. Enjoy Solvang Trolley and Carriage

Address: 1618 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463

If you want to take a trip to the past and look at the main attractions in Solvang, you should get on Solvang Trolley & Carriage narrated tour throughout Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley.

It is a relaxing and old-fashioned excursion in a horse-drawn streetcar, during which you will stop at the famous and historical spots of the town while learning about its history and heritage. The trolley that has 20 seats is pulled by two Belgian powerful horses – Claire and Rita. 

You will have a unique opportunity to see the main attractions and the most beautiful places of Solvang while sitting in a Danish traditional trolley pulled by horses. You will pass stores, wine bars, boutiques, Danish bakeries, windmills, bars, and international restaurants. 

During the excursion, you will learn interesting details about the town and its history. Solvang Trolley & Carriage is a perfect attraction for families and especially kids that has been around for over 50 years.

It is available from Friday to Sunday, from 12 pm to 5 pm, and boarding is in the front of the Solvang Visitor Center. 

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5.   Visit OstrichLand USA

Address: 610 E Hwy 246, Solvang, CA 93463

If you are an animal lover, aviary enthusiast, or you want to know about more places to visit in Solvang with your family, OstrichLand USA is the place to be. 

It is a 33-acre farm with over 100 birds, including emus and ostriches. It is a great experience for the whole family and one of the best things to do in Solvang with kids because you can get up close and very personal with these unique and elegant birds.

There are ostrich eggs available year-round, and emu eggs that you can purchase in the spring and winter seasons. 

At Ostrichland, they provide tours of the grounds and also allow to feed their birds, which makes this place very popular among families. There is also a gift shop, where you can buy ostrich-themed merchandise and souvenirs, as well as special food in order to feed the birds. 

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6. Taste Wines at Rusack Vineyards

Address: 1819 Ballard Canyon Rd, Solvang, CA 93463

If you are looking for the best things to do in Solvang as a wine lover, then the place you should definitely visit is Rusack Vineyards. It is a vineyard and boutique winery that is located in Ballard Canyon’s hills.

This place is known as one of the top producers of world-class beverages in the United States. Rusack Vineyards is especially known for red wines, including Syrah and Pinot Noir. You can enjoy these delicious wines while looking at the magnificent landscapes of the surroundings. 

The winery was established in 1995 and is owned by Alison and Gregg Rusack, and the motto of the owners is to involve the unique mix of family, art, earth, and craft. 

Rusack Vineyards is a perfect place for spending time with family and friends as it has a great picnic area, so you can reserve a space for bringing a group of people. They also have crackers and cheese for sale in the tasting room. 

If you’re into wine tasting. Check out this private wine tour and Santa Ynez biking with a wine tasting tour.

See Related: Best Day Trips from San Francisco, California

7. Spend a day in Hans Christian Andersen Park 

Address: 633 Chalk Hill Rd, Solvang, CA 93463

It is another place in Solvang dedicated to this famous author of fairy tales from Denmark. The park is located on Chalk Hill Road and is filled with large and mature oak trees. The journey to the lovely greenery starts with an entrance – a large gate that resembles a beautiful castle from a fairy tale.

 The park is a perfect place for spending time with kids as it has many playgrounds and activities for children of different ages. There is a skate park, climbing wall, machine-making old-fashioned music, and a playground with tall slides. 

There are also plenty of picnic tables scattered throughout the park, including special smaller picnic tables for kids. Hans Christian Andersen Park has all the necessary amenities for spending a lovely day with your family and friends enjoying the relaxing and fresh Solvang air.  

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8. Check out the Solvang Festival Theater

Address: 420 2nd St, Solvang, CA 93463

Wonder what other Solvang things to do? Check out Solvang Festival Theater. 

Solvang Festival Theater is a 700-seat outdoor amphitheater that is owned, operated, and maintained by the nonprofit Solvang Theaterfest.

The theater usually operates from June to October by providing space for PCPA productions. It was opened in 1974, and for over 45 years it has been supporting and promoting performance art in the state of California. 

Many events have been held there, including fundraising theater shows, jazz concerts, and performances, including such famous and well-known names as Crosby and Nash, Jim Messina, Tommy Castro, Bonnie Raitt, and others. 

The regular family events that occur at the theater are Family Night and Jazz in the Garden. 

Even if you are in Solvang when there are no notable events at the Solvang Festival Theater, this iconic place is still worth seeing and visiting.

It is a great summer location with plenty of modern amenities, a delightful outdoor amphitheater, and rentable staging areas. It is a perfect venue for experiencing the intertwined cultures of Denmark and California while sipping delicious wine.

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9. Enjoy your day at Lincourt Vineyards

Address: 1711 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463

Are you interested in more things to do in Solvang for adults? Then, you should visit another well-known winery Lincourt Vineyards. It is located in Santa Barbara County, right between Buellton and Lompoc. 

It is a wine estate that was founded in 1996 and is known today for distributing various sorts of high-quality wine with rich flavor and high quality. The founder Bill Foley named this winery after his two daughters – Lindsay and Courtney. 

One of the main places at Lincourt Vineyards that you should visit is its tasting room. It was built in the part of the old dairy farm that existed on the estate.

The tasting room has a charming atmosphere, which makes the process of tasting wine more unique and delightful. It is also a very romantic place, so if you are looking for things to do in Solvang for couples, tasting wine at Lincourt Vineyard would be an excellent choice. 

See Related: Best Things to Do in Northern California

10. Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Nojoqui Falls Park

Address: 3250 Alisal Rd, Goleta, CA 93117

If you do not want to spend any money on Solvang attractions and you are searching for free things to do in Solvang, visiting Nojoqui Falls Park is a great option. The park is located between Buellton and Santa Barbara and is less than 10 miles from Solvang, California.

The park features playing fields, picnic tables, a playground for kids, and a short 30-minute hike to an eighty-foot waterfall. Since the trail is only 0.65 miles long, hiking in Nojoqui Falls Park is great for outdoor lovers of all levels and ages, including older people and kids. 

One of the best things about this attraction is that it is year-round. The best time to hike in Nojoqui Falls Park is early spring when the waterfall is at its fullest. However, in the fall and summer, the falls still look elegant in their thinner state.

It is also important to note that Nojoqui Falls Park is completely free to the public. You are also allowed to bring your dog, but your four-legged friend has to remain on a leash. 

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11. Spend time with your Family and Friends at Rideau Vineyard

Address: 1562 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463

Obviously, there is no shortage of good vineyards and wineries in Solvang, and visiting them is one of the top things to do in Solvang. 

Another winery that you should visit if you are in this small spectacular town with a European atmosphere is Rideau Vineyard. It was founded in 1997 by Iris Rideau and quickly became an award-winning estate with the finest wine.

An interesting fact is that this winery became the first one in American history owned by an African American woman. 

 It is situated on Alamo Pintado Road and can boast its lush green grounds and elegant French Victorian architecture that makes the estate look so special. 

Another unique thing about Rideau Vineyard is that it only produces wine, but it does not distribute it. This makes the tasting experience at Rideau Vineyard even more unique and exclusive.

One of the main events that you can attend at the vineyard is one of its famous dinners, Creole-inspired and paired with delicious and exclusive wine. 

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12. See the Solvang Wind Harp

Address: 636 Atterdag Road, Solvang, CA 93463

What is Solvang known for? How about the oldest wind harp in the entire state of California? 

The Solvang Wind Harp (Aeolian harp) was built in 1915 and is one of the symbols of America’s Danish history. It is definitely one of the best things to see in Solvang. Originally, it topped one of the towers of the Danish Pavilion at the Panama Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco in 1915.

When the exposition ended, it was decided to demolish all the buildings. This wind harp was not destroyed and instead was transported to the town of Solvang.

Originally, it was made of bamboo and wood, but the modern version is metal. Today, you can see the Solvang Wind Harp behind the nursing home. This harp is truly unique because it can create a variety of musical tones depending on the weather.

When the wind blows through the harp, you can hear lovely musical notes. The fact that it is located close to a nursing home is very symbolic. It is definitely worth seeing because it is one of the oldest symbols of the town and the 20th Century history of the entire country. 

13. Eat Breakfast at the Solvang Bakery

Address: 438 Alisal Rd, Solvang, CA 93463

Still wondering what to do in Solvang?

How about eating breakfast and drinking coffee at one of the Danish bakeries in town? The good news is that the town is filled with bakeries, so you can always find a place where you can try delicious honey almond tarts, bear claws, gingerbread houses, and coffee. 

One of the best and most famous bakeries in town is the Solvang Bakery. They serve traditional Danish waffles, kringle, butter cookies, and other delicious things that are worth trying. It is also a perfect place in order to pair delicious and fresh pastry favorites with cider or wine. 

The Solvang Bakery is also a perfect place for family gatherings because it makes them very special and memorable. If you are looking for a bakery specializing in wedding cakes, the Solvang Bakery is also ready to help. 

For a side trip, you can join a Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Solvang.

See Related: Most Exotic Places in California to Visit

14. Have Lunch or Dinner at one of Solvang’s Restaurants

Are you thinking about things to do in Solvang today?

How about having lunch or dinner at one of its top-notch restaurants?

Here are the best options in town that you want to consider for your unique gastronomic experience. 

• Copenhagen Sausage Garden – It is a casual restaurant serving burgers and sausages galore. It is a touristy, classy, and casual place for dinner with a great variety of sausages. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options and serves drinks, including beer and wine.  
• Bit O’Denmark – It is the oldest restaurant in Solvang as it was established in 1911. They serve Danish and American cuisine with a great variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. If you want to taste Danish-style food, this restaurant is your perfect choice. 
• Mad & Vin – In Danish, the name of the restaurant means “food and wine.” It is another great place to eat your breakfast, lunch, or dinner that is known for its farm-to-kitchen fresh ingredients. 

These are only three of the most popular and highly rated restaurant options in Solvang, California. However, there are dozens of other places in town with great menus that are worth trying. 

15. Go Shopping in Solvang

Among other things to do in Solvang this weekend is shopping. Shopping is one of the best activities this unique and charming town in California can offer because there are many shops and stores throughout the town. 

Here is a list of the best and most popular stores and shops you can find in Solvang: 

• A Piece Of The Past – In this mall, you can find antique stuff, including furniture and decor. There is over 4,000 square feet of space and more than 28 dealers. 
• The Book Loft – Are you looking for new adult or children’s books? This book store has a lot to offer you. You can even find very rare books from Scandinavia. There are also used books that you can find on the second floor. 
• Artistic Pony Studio – If you are looking for unique stuff created by local artists, this studio is the right place to visit. 
• The Solvang Antiques – It is the biggest and most well-known antique store in Solvang and the entire Santa Ynez Valley. It is situated at the heart of Solvang’s shopping village. At The Solvang Antiques, you can find various antique and precious items, such as jewelry, sculptures, porcelain, and more.
  If you have any questions about the items, you can always ask the professional staff working there. There is also Solvang Antiques Fine Art Gallery with stunning and unique antique pieces, paintings, and various contemporary artworks. 

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16. Carivintas Winery

Address: 476 1st St, Solvang, CA 93463

Carivintas Winery is a fun, family-friendly, and pet-friendly point of interest in Solvang. The mission of the winery is to create great wines and contribute to the local community.

Therefore, it donates to various non-profit organizations that are involved in sciences, art, and humanities. The organizations that Carivintas Winery works with include Best Friends Animal Society, Return To Freedom, and others. 

All the wines on the menu are unique and boast natural scenes and ingredients. There are many red and white wines to taste, which makes your tasting experience at the winery truly unique.

One of the best things about Carivintas Winery is that you can turn your tasting session into a family experience because both kids and pets can come in and have fun with you.

There are plenty of games for children to keep them entertained, and there are also treats for your pets, as well as water and beds. 

There are many wine tours to experience in Solvang that you should not miss, from Santa Ynez Wine County Shuttle Tour, Wine County Tour, and a Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Barbara.

See Related: Tips for Traveling with Pets to Make Your Trip Easier

17. Walk around Downtown Solvang

Just having a walk around downtown Solvang is quite an amazing experience, especially if you have never been to this town before.

The town looks beautiful and charming in any weather and any season. You can walk around by admiring its unique Danish architecture, towers, thatched roofs, and iconic windmills. Since the town is quite compact, you can walk all the streets in less than two hours. 

There are several spots in downtown Solvang that you do not want to miss. They are Alisal Road, 1st Street, Copenhagen Drive, Mission Drive, and Atterdag Road. Make sure to have your camera with you to take fascinating pictures. 

Solvang is truly a unique town because it allows you to immerse yourself in Danish culture. When walking around downtown, make sure to pay attention to the following icons and symbols of Danish architecture: 

• Round tower – It is a replica of the original tower that was built as an astronomical observatory in the 17th Century. 
• Old stock exchange – It is a replica of one of the most beautiful buildings in the capital of Denmark, Copenhagen. 
• Windmills – There are four windmills in Solvang that are considered one of the biggest and most beautiful attractions in downtown Solvang.    

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18. Visit Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch

Address: 1555 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang, CA 93463

Do you want to watch cure miniature horses enjoying their outdoor life? Then you should definitely stop by Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch located in the magnificent Santa Ynez Valley, between Ballard and Solvang. It is a perfect idea for spending a fun family day together. 

The ranch is open daily from 10 am to 3 pm. You can also schedule a ranch tour for a group of 20 people or more for $3 per person. Even though petting and riding are not allowed, you can still get close enough in order to have personal experience with these cute creatures. 

19. Explore the collection of Vintage Motorcycles in Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum

Address: 320 Alisal Rd, Solvang, CA 93463

If you are thinking about a charming small town with a European atmosphere like Solvang, vintage motorcycles probably do not come to your mind.

However, if you are staying in this Denmark-like town for a few days, you should check out the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum located just up the block from Old Mission Santa Ines. The museum has a great collection of motorcycles but mainly focuses on racing models.

Many motorcycles date back to the early 1900s, and the collection contains motorcycles from different parts of the world. Since motorcycles are rotated every month, you can see a new display every time when you come.

You should definitely explore this museum if you are a fan of rare and vintage motorcycles and want to know more about them.  

See Related: Best Museums in the US You Need to Visit

20. Admire art in Wildling Museum of Art & Nature

Address: 1511-B Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463

If you are a nature and fine art lover, you should visit the Wilding Museum of Art & Nature located on the edge of Solvang. The museum hosts permanent collections, as well as different temporary exhibitions. For example, one of the recent exhibitions was a display of photographs of such American nature photographers as Ansel Adams and Alan Ross. 

Visiting this museum is a great idea if you want to spend a day inside, especially if the weather is not good. Going to the Wilding Museum of Art & Nature is a perfect opportunity to learn more about local nature, landscapes, and aesthetics. 

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21. Attend the Annual Events in town

Solvang is a town that has dozens of various festivals and events throughout the year. You should consider attending one of them, especially if you want to understand and learn the local culture better. 

In October, for example, Solvang celebrates the Grape Stomp Festival, where everyone can enjoy wine tastings, try local cuisine, and participate in a traditional annual grape stomp. 

If you decide to come in September, you will have an opportunity to attend Danish Days. The purpose of this festival is to celebrate Danish heritage and culture in Solvang

This festival lasts three days, during which you can dress up like a Scandinavian, sing, and dance traditional Danish folk dances, eat traditional food, and participate in parades. There are also many indoor and outdoor games for both adults and kids. 

From the last week of November to the beginning of January, there is another festival known as Julefest. It is packed with exciting, funny, and entertaining activities for adults and kids.

The second week of December in Solvang is a magnificent time when the entire town is decorated in holiday trappings. It is also around the time of the Solvang Christmas Parade.

See Related: Most Famous Historical Landmarks in the USA

22. Visit Bethania Lutheran Church

Address: 603 Atterdag Rd Solvang, CA 93463

Bethania Lutheran Church is another landmark that makes Solvang look unique. It is a copy of the actual 12th Century Lutheran Church in Denmark that is located in Copenhagen. It is one of the most recognizable buildings and one of the first Danish-like structures to be built in Solvang. 

The church looks like a traditional countryside church in Denmark with beautiful and impressive woodwork. It was created by Jes Smidt from the state of Wisconsin – real Lutheran country. The church is rich in statuary and Christian art. 

23. Spend a day in Gaviota State Park 

Address: 17620 Gaviota Beach Rd, Gaviota, CA 93117

Less than 15 miles drive south of Solvang, you will get to Gaviota State Park – one of several state parks in California. It is located near the tiny town of Goleta which has less than 100 residents.

This park is a beachside paradise with a great variety of natural wonders and geologic features. Here is what you can do at Gaviota State Park, whether you are traveling by yourself, with another person, or with a family: 

• Hang out on the beach – If you want a relaxing day, to enjoy the sun and sunbathe, you can stay on the beach. There are picnic tables on the sand, a few steps from the water. 
• Go on a hike – Gaviota State Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. There are several trails leading to the Gaviota Wind Caves and Gaviota Peak. Gaviota Peak Trail is 6.5 miles long.
  
  If you take it, you will have a chance to enjoy breathtaking views of the Channel Islands and the Pacific Coast once you reach the top. Gaviota Wind Caves trail is only 3 miles long, and it takes you to magnificent sandstone saves with distant water views. 

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Southern California & Things to Do

24. Get closer to wildlife at El Capitan State Beach 

Address: Highway 101 at El Capitan State Beach exit Santa Barbara, CA 93117

This state park is home to diverse Californian wildlife. At the same, it has a good infrastructure for visitors, including picnic tables, trails, campsites, and lookouts.

The sandy beach is a popular place for swimming, surfing, and fishing. If you are not a beach person and want to do something else, there is a 2-mile bike trail that leads you to the Refugio campground.

If you need a more strenuous workout, there are Ridgetop Trail and Bill Wallace El Capitain Trail and Canyon.   

El Capitain State Beach is also perfect for birdwatching lovers. You can see retailed hawks, American kestrels, and hairy woodpeckers that make regular appearances.

25. Try Olive Oil Tasting

If you are searching for free things to do in Solvang and you like olives, you should consider trying olive oil tasting. There are several olive oil shops in Solvang where you can taste olive oil.

The stores that you should definitely visit for olive oil tasting include Sanger Family of Wines, Olive House, Solvang Olive, and Solvang Olive Press. All these shops also provide vinegar tastings. Want to experience olive oil tasting? Join this tour.

Is Solvang Worth Visiting?

The answer is definitely “Yes.” Even though Solvang is just over 2 square miles, it has many things to offer as an iconic Danish town in the middle of California. There are many fun things to do in Solvang with family and friends.

Plus, there are plenty of great tourist attractions to visit, including visiting the Danish village of Solvang, shopping for unique souvenirs, seeing historic churches, tasting wine, enjoying one of the annual events, and other things. 

Where to Stay in Solvang, California

There are plenty and resorts, so finding accommodation is quite easy.  According to reviews, the best accommodation options are Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, Hotel Corque, and The Landsby. 

FAQ 

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