Location: Solvang
Top Things to do in Solvang
Countries
What to do and see in Solvang, California (CA): The Best Things to do Good for Kids
Solvang (/ˈsɒlvæŋ/; Danish: [ˈsoːlvɑŋˀ]; Danish for 'sunny field') is a city in Santa Barbara County, California. It is located in the Santa Ynez Valley. The population was 5,245 at the 2010 census, down from 5,332 at the 2000 census. Solvang was incorporated as a city on May 1, 1985.
Restaurants in Solvang
1. Old Mission Santa Ines
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 520 reviews
Reviewed By CleopatraBunny - Flagstaff, United States
This active Catholic Church has a well-curated collection of old mission tools, vestments, furnishings and other items from the 1800s mission life. Cemetery has over 1000 people buried here but most graves are not marked. What’s worthwhile is the self-guided audio tour. You push little buttons on the wall in seven areas to hear the history and backstory on each room and the church itself. Plenty of free parking and charming gift shop staff.
2. Seein' Spots Farm
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Another great farm to stop at while touring the Santa Ynez Valley...home to miniature donkeys.
Reviewed By mintchip17 - Beverly Hills, United States
This was truly the highlight of my weekend in Los Olivos! It's a wonderful little farm/animal rescue sanctuary that has a charming variety of animals - mini donkeys, sheep, goats, a turkey, chickens, a tortoise...I could go on. I am absolutely obsessed with a 2 week old baby donkey that I bonded with - he is insanely adorable, so sweet and if I could have taken him home to Los Angeles I would have! We enjoyed speaking with the owner who gave us the back stories on some of their animals. If you love interacting with animals, this is a must visit sanctuary. There's no charge but you can make a donation so please consider doing the same to help them care for all these little creatures. We visited during their open Saturday hours but check in advance as it's mostly by appointment.
3. Wildling Museum of Art and Nature
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 49 reviews
The Wildling Museum is where art and nature meet! Through beautiful art exhibitions and programs, we hope to inspire the next generation of artists and conservationists. We feature 3-4 art exhibitions at any one time as well as offer many art classes and lectures for all ages throughout the year. Our hand-painted Valley Oak wall mural is a beautiful way to become acquainted with our local landscape and wildlife. We also have a wonderful gift shop full of unique gifts and nature and hiking guides and maps (proceeds support the museum). The Wildling is a nonprofit, 501 (c) (3) organization.
Reviewed By consolef - San Diego, United States
On the main street near Holiday Inn, this 2 story, accessible museum is a treasure of photography, art and special events and exhibits. Admission cost is small, kids admitted free. There's a splendid little gift shop. Mon. Wed. Thu. Fri. 11-5 Sat. Sun. 10-5 Closed Tuesday.
4. Sunny Fields Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 82 reviews
Reviewed By D9447PXjohns - California, United States
We were first drawn to Sunny Fields Park because it looks like a Danish Village. Of course we were pleased to find that it's clean and safe. The younger kids will love it but there are other features as well. There are volleyball nets (at least when we were there), picnic tables with shaded eating areas, benches, grills, restrooms, and a nice "track" which surrounds the perimeter of the park. There is plenty of parking and informational flyers listing local events. There is also a number there if you wish to reserve a spot for larger functions. Finally, the park is on Alamo Pintado Road which is conveniently located near downtown Solvang! Continue on the same road and you'll find wineries, apple farms, nut and berry farms, an olive stand, a lavender farm, and a miniature horse ranch! You can really make a fun afternoon of it and let the little ones (or you) burn off some energy.
5. Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 72 reviews
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
While we were in Solvang, we visited the Visitor center. its in the heart of the downtown area. There is a walking map of Solvang, plus brochures for Solvang and the surroundung area. The staff is very helpful.The visitor center was welcoming with its decor and holiday decorations.
6. Swedish Candy Factory
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 14 reviews
Reviewed By nicolejG9100IE - Bakersfield, United States
We happened upon this place while walking along the street. So glad we stopped in! We spoke with who I think was the owner. He was making candy and explaining the process, how the finished product comes out, and the history behind it. So interesting! He gave us some samples, gave us some touring tips, and told us about an event they were having later that night (Black Friday). Wonderful service and delicious candy! This would be a great place to take kids.
7. Quicksilver Ranch
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 143 reviews
Reviewed By colleenc967
Easy to find. It was just a short ride out of Solvang. Miniature ponies grazing, some close enough to pet.
8. Nojoqui Falls Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 211 reviews
Reviewed By MrSo57 - Los Angeles, United States
We visited in January, before rainy season and the waterfall was so beautiful! The drive down Alamo Pintado to the park was glorious. We saw wild pigs, deer, cows & horses. Along the hike to the waterfalls, we saw wild turkeys! The waterfall is a hidden treasure. I absolutely recommend this hike to the water falls for beginners.
9. Hans Christian Andersen Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 200 reviews
Reviewed By 716sachink - Plainview, United States
Hans Christian Andersen Park is an awesome park filled with large live oak trees. To enter this park, one needs to drive through a castle arch. It has a skating section. There is a small wooden playground behind the skating section. There are several benches for public seating. Certainly worth visiting when in Solvang.
10. Solvang Trolley & Carriage
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 75 reviews
Discover Solvang with the timeless elegance and fun that a horse-drawn conveyance offers! You can take a 25-min guided tour on the historical Solvang Trolley, which has been taking visitors and locals alike for rides since 1964. The Trolley is a replica of a 1900's Danish Street Car, pulled by Belgian Draft Horses. The tour is guided by multi-lingual, costumed Tour Guides that are consantly educated on local special events and history of the town.We also offer private carriage rides! Our carriages are available for wine-tasting or private tours. A 24 hour-notice is required on most days, but keep in mind that summer and holiday months book quickly, and many groups book their tours with months in advance. Our wine-tasting tours include a visit to two wine-tasting rooms within Solvang, and we offer complimentary drinks or dessert from our Ice Cream Parlor!Our Carriages are available for special events at your location. Please call for details!
