Discovering Solvang: Things to See and Do

Did you know that Solvang means ‘sunny field’ in Danish? It was founded by three Danish immigrants way back in 1911 who all shared the dream of creating a Danish town.

Solvang offers a unique cultural experience for people who are used to relating the United States with skyscrapers and bustling cities. Solvang has vibrant streets, picturesque architecture with half-timbered houses, charming windmills, and traditional Scandinavian cuisine. Let’s see what are the things to see and do in Solvang, America’s Danish capital.

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How much time should I spend in Solvang?

This is a great one-day-trip destination, and a wonderful stop when traveling between Northern and Southern California. We stopped in Solvang on our way to Los Angeles before visiting Santa Barbara. One day is absolutely enough for you to explore, try some amazing food, walk around, and check out their most interesting spots. Whether you’re a foodie or you like history, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, this charming Danish village has enough to convince you to go. Of course, you can always take more time and stay longer for deeper exploring and more spots to visit!

Let’s check the highlights of this absolutely adorable small town. Solvang’s charming atmosphere will for sure steal your heart.

What is the famous street in Solvang?

Solvang’s Danish heritage is reflected all around the village, but nowhere is it more apparent than in its main streets.

• Mission Drive is the main one and all lined with colorful storefronts, different shops selling authentic Danish souvenirs, and restaurants.

• Alisal Road offers a more quiet, residential feel. Still packed with tourists, there you can often see the Solvang Trolley & Carriage, showing people around.

• Finally, Copenhagen Drive is another bustling street in the heart of the village, offering a mix of local shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Whether you’re looking for Danish treats, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak up the atmosphere of this lovely town, Solvang’s main streets are a pleasure to walk on.

What to see in Solvang?

Solvang Windmills

There are five windmills at different locations in Solvang. They are one of the most recognizable landmarks for the town and they definitely add to its European feel. Built in the early 1900s, the windmills serve a primarily decorative purpose today, but they were originally inspired by Danish windmills that harnessed the power of the wind to grind grain into flour during an earlier era.

Four of the windmills are located on the main streets of Solvang and the fifth one is placed in a residential area. Three of them are home to local businesses such as an ice cream shop, a tasting room, and a brewing company.

Round Tower (Rundetaarn)

The Round Tower in Solvang, California is a charming replica of the original tower located in Copenhagen, Denmark (the Rundetaarn). The replica tower is smaller than the original, measuring one third of its size and lacks a spiral ramp or observatory.

Solvang Founders

Check out The Copenhagen House. It was initially constructed as a bank in 1913 by Danish immigrants and served as the office for the Danish-American Colony Company. Unfortunately, it burned down in 1925 but was reconstructed in 1926.

Solvang Park and Bust of Hans Christian Andersen

Solvang Park is a lovely small public park. One of the things people go there for is the bust of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous Danish author. The bust is a stunning tribute to the author and poet, who is renowned for his classic fairy tales such as “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling.” The statue was gifted to the city by the Danish-American community and is a beloved landmark in Solvang. 

Right next to the park, you will find The Hans Christian Andersen Museum. The museum is a fascinating tribute to one of the most celebrated authors of all time where visitors can explore exhibits that showcase Andersen’s life and legacy. You can check rare first-edition books, manuscripts, and artwork inspired by his famous fairy tales. 

Old Mission Santa Ynez

Old Mission Santa Ynez is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture that dates back to the 18th century. The mission was founded in 1804 and played a significant role in the early history of California. Today, visitors can tour the mission and learn about its rich history.

Solvang Trolley

This unique tour offers an old-fashioned way to explore the town’s streets. You’ll be seated in a 1915 replica Honen (a Danish word for a hen) trolley, giving you a sense of how things used to be before cars and motorcycles took over. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience!

OstrichLand

OstrichLand is open daily and it draws in countless visitors with over 100 fascinating ostriches and emus. It’s a perfect spot for animal lovers and people traveling with kids, as you have the opportunity to feed the ostriches. Interesting fact is that OstrichLand was featured in The Simpsons back, as their own version called “Ostrich World”back in 2010.

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What desserts to try in Solvang?

Solvang has a variety of authentic bakeries that offer amazing pastries, breads, and other baked goods. The town’s bakeries feature a wide range of treats, from classic Danish butter cookies and fruit tarts to savory meat pies and fluffy, buttery croissants. Among the most popular bakeries in Solvang are:

• Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery, which celebrates their 53rd anniversary this year! Everything we got from Olsen’s was absolutely mind-blowing (I wish I remembered the exact desserts I got, but… I ate them so fast that I didn’t even have time to think about their names).

• Birkholm’s Bakery & Cafe is another popular spot with yummy treats. Don’t forget to check out the wall outside the bakery, which features interesting historical facts and timelines about Denmark’s monarchs. 

• Solvang Bakery – A charming family-owned boutique bakery that offers a wide range of sweet treats. They have been an iconic dessert spot for Solvang for over three decades.

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Where to eat in Solvang?

If you’re in Solvang, you absolutely have to try Danish pancakes- a local specialty that is fluffy, delicious, and a perfect way to start your day. Or to highlight your lunch. Or an afternoon snack. 

• Paula’s Pancake House is a cozy restaurant located in the heart of Solvang which offers a variety of pancakes, including traditional Danish pancakes, omelets, waffles, and French toast. Paula’s Pancake House is always bustling with customers, the line is big but for a reason! I also love their staff’s uniforms!

• Solvang Brewing Company is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of locally brewed beers and tasty pub food. The brewery also has a spacious outdoor patio perfect for enjoying a cold pint on a sunny day.

• If you’re looking for a wine tasting experience, Cali Love is a really cool place to check out. Their handcrafted wines are made with grapes, selected from local vineyards. The interior of the place is super colorful and fun as well! They often have different events, such as karaoke nights, pink parties, and reggae nights.

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Solvang, California is a charming town that offers a unique taste of the Danish heritage. From its windmills and Round Tower to its delicious pastries and delightful wines, there’s enough to make you fall in love with such a cute place. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, Solvang’s vibrant atmosphere will make your trip better!. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem in the heart of California’s Central Coast!

What other places in the US do you know that make you feel like you’re in Europe? Let me know in the comments below!