Welcome to the charming Danish village of Solvang, where the streets are lined with windmills, the architecture is reminiscent of a quaint European town, and the smell of freshly baked pastries fills the air.
Solvang is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, California, and it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a budget-friendly getaway. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a traveler passing through, Solvang has something for everyone.
From wine tasting to outdoor adventures, Solvang offers a plethora of activities that won’t break the bank. So, grab your friends, family, or significant other and get ready to explore this charming village.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 23 fun things to do in Solvang that are budget-friendly. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, we’ve got you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the list and discover all the exciting things Solvang has to offer. Get ready to indulge in delicious Danish pastries, sip on local wines, and explore the beautiful countryside. Solvang is waiting for you!
23 Fun Things To Do in Solvang: Budget-Friendly
Solvang, California, offers a variety of budget-friendly activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in exploring Danish culture, enjoying the outdoors, or indulging in local cuisine, there are plenty of options to suit every taste. Here are some fun and affordable things to do in Solvang:
1. Visit the Old Mission Santa Ines
Founded in 1804, the Old Mission Santa Ines is a historic landmark located in the heart of Solvang. Imagine the Spanish missionaries landing in California in the 1700s, ready to spread the word of God and convert the locals. One of their first stops was the present-day town of Solvang, where they built a mission they named Santa Inés.
Here, you can wander the mission grounds, soak up the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the beautiful architecture.
As a visitor, you can learn about the history of the mission and its role in the development of the Santa Ines Valley.
Also, the mission also has beautiful gardens and grounds you can explore.
Visit this great place at 1760 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
2. Tour the Hans Christian Andersen Museum
If you’re a fan of fairy tales, then you’ll love the Hans Christian Andersen Museum. This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous Danish author of fairy tales.
As visitors, you can see exhibits on Andersen’s life, his writing process, and his famous fairy tales. The museum also has a children’s library with a variety of Andersen’s books.
You can see his original manuscripts, learn about his inspirations, and even take a photo with a life-size statue of the man himself.
Visit this amazing place at 1680 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States
3. Discover the Elverhoj Museum of History & Art
This museum tells the story of Solvang’s Danish heritage and culture.
Visitors can see exhibits on Danish immigration to the United States, Danish folk art and crafts, and the history of Solvang.
You can tour round the museum which has a beautiful garden with sculptures and other works of art.
You can also learn about the history of Danish immigration to California and the cultural impact of Danish settlers.
Visit this place at 1624 Elverhoy Way, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
4. Visit The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature
If you’re looking for something a little different, then check out The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature. This museum features exhibits on the natural world and its intersection with art.
You can explore the exhibits on wildlife, plants, and the environment. The museum also has a nature trail where visitors can spot birds and other wildlife.
You can also see paintings, sculptures, and photographs of nature.
Visit this amazing place at 1511-B Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
5. Take a stroll through Solvang Park
Solvang Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of the city. The park has a variety of amenities, including a playground, a picnic area, and a walking path.
You can relax and enjoy the beautiful California weather at this park. You can also take a boat ride on the lake or see a performance at the park’s amphitheater.
Visitors can also enjoy the park’s beautiful gardens and flowers.
Visit this great place at 1630 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
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6. Explore the beautiful Nojoqui Falls Park
Nojoqui Falls Park is a short drive from Solvang and features a beautiful waterfall.
Admission to the park is free. There is also a picnic area in the park.
You can hike to the top of the falls for a breathtaking view, or you can relax in the picnic area and enjoy the sound of the water.
Visit this place at 3250 Alisal Rd, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
7. Enjoy wine tasting at Rusack Vineyards
Rusack Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in the Santa Ynez Valley. You can taste a variety of Rusack’s wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The winery also has a beautiful patio where you can enjoy their wine and the views of the surrounding vineyards.
You can also take a tour of the winery, and learn about the winemaking process.
This great place is located at 1819 Ballard Canyon Rd, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
8. Visit Ostrichland USA
Ostrichland USA is an ostrich farm located just outside of Solvang.
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, then you need to visit Ostrichland USA. This working ostrich farm is home to over 50 ostriches, and you can take a tour to learn about these fascinating birds.
You can also feed the ostriches, ride an ostrich, and even buy ostrich eggs and feathers.
There is also a gift shop and a restaurant on the farm where you can get some souvenirs to remember your visit.
This unique place is located at 610 E Hwy 246, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
9. Shop for Danish items at The Copenhagen House
The Copenhagen House is a Danish gift shop located in the heart of Solvang. The shop sells a variety of Danish items, including clothing, souvenirs, and food products.
As a visitor, you can find everything they need to bring a little bit of Denmark home with them.
This unique place is located at 1660 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
10. Attend community gatherings and special events at Solvang Park, such as Winterfest, Danish Days, and Free Friday Night Movies
Solvang Park hosts a variety of community gatherings and special events throughout the year.
You can attend the Winterfest in the winter, which is a celebration of Danish Christmas traditions. You can also attend the Danish Days in the spring, which is a festival with traditional Danish food, music, and dancing.
Also in the summer, you can attend the Free Friday Night Movies, which are shown in the park’s amphitheater.
These events are a great way to experience Solvang’s culture and community.
11. Visit the Solvang Festival Theater
This theater hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including Broadway musicals, concerts, and plays. Tickets to performances vary in price. The theater offers discounts for students, seniors, and military members.
There are some fun things to do in this theater. You can attend a concert, play, or musical.
You can also take a backstage tour of the theater. Additionally, you can see a movie at the theater.
Visit this great place at 420 2nd St, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
12. Explore the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum
This museum features a collection of over 150 vintage motorcycles from all over the world. Visitors can see motorcycles from all over the world in this museum.
There are many fun things to do in this museum such as taking a tour of the museum to learn about the history of motorcycles, seeing some of the rarest and most unique motorcycles in the world, and also taking a photo with one of the motorcycles.
This unique place is located at 320 Alisal Rd, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
13. Visit the Sunny Fields Park
Sunny Fields Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Solvang. The park has a variety of amenities, including a playground, a picnic area, and a walking path.
If you need nice and fun places to visit in Solvang, Sunny Fields Park should be one of them in your list.
You can have a picnic, lunch or dinner in the park. You can also play a game of frisbee or catch.
Furthermore, you can let the kids play on the playground. Also, take a walk or bike ride on the trails.
Visitors can also enjoy the park’s beautiful gardens and flowers.
This amazing place is located at Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
14. Visit the Solvang Visitor Center
The Solvang Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to Solvang. The center has a variety of information about Solvang, including maps, brochures, and event calendars.
You can do some fun things here such as getting information about the town, including maps, brochures, and souvenirs especially if you are a researcher.
Also, you can talk to the staff and get recommendations on things to do in Solvang.
Additionally, you can watch a video about the history of Solvang in this visitors center.
Visitors can also purchase tickets to attractions and tours at the visitor center.
This amazing place is located at 1637-1639 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
15. Explore the Jule Hus (The Christmas House Building)
Jule Hus is a unique store that sells Christmas decorations and gifts all year round.
If you are looking for fun things to do in Jule His, then you can do things like walking through the beautifully decorated Christmas store.
You can also browse the selection of Christmas ornaments, decorations, and gifts.
Most interestingly, you can take a photo with the Christmas tree.
Visitors can find everything from traditional Christmas ornaments to unique Danish Christmas items. The store also has a beautiful window display that changes throughout the year.
This great place is located at 1580 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
16. Go to the Solvang Amber & Viking Museum
This museum features exhibits on amber and Viking culture. Visitors can see exhibits on the formation of amber, the history of amber jewelry, and the role of amber in Viking culture.
One of the fun things you can do here is learn about the history of amber and the Vikings.
You can also see some of the most unique amber artifacts in the world.
Another fun thing is that you can take a photo with a Viking helmet and keep it for memory’s sake.
The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase amber jewelry and other Viking-related items.
You can visit this amazing place at 1660 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
17. Go for Wine Tasting at the McClain Cellars
McClain Cellars is a family-owned winery located in the Santa Ynez Valley.
You can have some fun things to do here such as taking a tour of the winery and learning about the winemaking process.
Also, you can sample some of the award-winning wines.
You can also taste a variety of McClain’s wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah.
Furthermore, the winery has a beautiful patio where you can enjoy their wine and the views of the surrounding vineyards.
Don’t forget that you can also buy a bottle of wine to take home.
This amazing place is located at 1623 Mission Dr Suite B, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
18. Visit the Rideau Vineyard
Rideau Vineyard is a family-owned vineyard and winery located in the Santa Ynez Valley.
You can enjoy Wine Tasting as they offer free tastings of up to 6 of their current releases and their current reserved wine. Visitors can taste a variety of Rideau’s wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
You can also have a Wine Education Experience as you will get to taste through their entire portfolio and also receive education on varietals, blends, food pairing, and winemaking.
Additionally, you can attend their Summer Concert Series, Wine & Swine, and other special events that combine local wines and barbecue in the summer, and they also usually host events around Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, and the 4th of July weekend.
The winery also has a beautiful picnic area where you can enjoy your wine and the views of the surrounding vineyards.
Visit this unique place at 1562 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
19. Explore the Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery
Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery is a popular bakery in Solvang that sells a variety of Danish pastries and other baked goods. Visitors can find everything from traditional Danish pastries like wienerbrød and kanelsnegle to more unique items like Danish sausage rolls and apple fritters.
Some fun things you can do at Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery include:
Grabbing a bite to eat before starting your day’s adventure as they can be pretty packed if you go there for breakfast.
Having an ice cream as they have a full-service ice cream counter to keep you cool throughout the day.
The bakery also has a cafe where you can enjoy their pastries and coffee.
This fun place is located at 1529 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
20. Visit the Solvang Olive Press
Solvang Olive Press is an olive oil mill that produces a variety of olive oil products.
The Solvang Olive Press is more than just a place to buy olive oil; it’s an educational experience on the process of extracting olive oil. Here are some fun things you can do at the Solvang Olive Press:
Take a tour of their small factory on how to create their Extra Virgin, Cold Pressed olive oil.
Do a tasting of their Extra Virgin, Cold Pressed, garlic-infused, lemon-infused, and blood orange-infused olive oils.
Shop for their oils, which come in 187ml, 375ml, and 750ml bottles.
This fun place is located at 463 Alisal Rd, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
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21. Check Out the Esko’s European Solvang Bazaar
Esko’s European Solvang Bazaar is a unique shop that sells a variety of European goods.
Some of the fun things you can do in Esko’s European Solvang Bazaar include walking through the maze of booths to find unique and interesting items. They have everything from cuckoo clocks to beer steins to Danish souvenirs.
Visitors can find everything from traditional European clothing and souvenirs to more unique items like European food products and antiques.
The shop also has a cafe where you can enjoy European coffee and pastries.
You can visit this fun place at 1642 Copenhagen Dr. Unit C, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
22. Explore the American Vogue Accessories
American Vogue Accessories is a boutique that sells a variety of women’s accessories. The boutique sells everything from jewelry and handbags to scarves and hats. American Vogue Accessories also has a personal styling service to help customers find the perfect accessories for their wardrobe.
You can do some fun things here such as buying clothes and shoes from popular brands like Vera Bradley, Brighton, and Kendra Scott.
You can shop for jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Also, you can shop for home decor items, such as candles, frames, and lamps.
This great place is easily located at 1604 Copenhagen Dr. Solvang CA 93463.
23. Ignite your Taste Buds at the Copenhagen Sausage Garden
Copenhagen Sausage Garden is a popular restaurant in Solvang that serves a variety of Danish sausages. Visitors can find everything from traditional Danish sausages like røde pølser and frikadeller to more unique items like elk sausage and boar sausage.
You can ignite your taste buds in this perfect sausage garden with some of its traditional Danish sausages.
The restaurant also has a beautiful outdoor seating area where you can feel the coolness of the air while you enjoy their sausage and beer.
You can locate this amazing place at 1660 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA 93463, United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are a number of discounts available for budget-minded visitors to Solvang. For example, the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art offers a free day of admission every Wednesday. The Mission Santa Inés also offers a discount on admission for seniors and military members.
There are a number of ways to save money on food in Solvang. For example, you can pack your own lunch or snacks to eat while you’re out exploring the town. You can also take advantage of the many happy hour specials offered by Solvang’s restaurants.
There are a number of ways to save money on accommodations in Solvang. For example, you can stay at one of the many budget-friendly hotels or motels in Solvang. You can also consider staying at a bed and breakfast or vacation rental.
Conclusion
Solvang is a budget-friendly destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. From exploring the charming Danish architecture and windmills to indulging in delicious Danish pastries and local wines, Solvang has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags, grab your friends and family, and head to Solvang for a fun-filled and budget-friendly adventure!
References
- tripadvisor.com– Best Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Solvang
- Thedigitalsuitcase.com– – 28 Fun Things to Do in Solvang, California!
