Solvang Day Trip: Your Guide to America’s Charming Danish Village
Introduction: Find Denmark in the Heart of California
Did you know you can visit a picture-perfect European village without ever pulling out your passport? Tucked away in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang, California, is known as America's Danish Capital - and it truly transports you. This unique town, with its half-timbered homes, authentic windmills, and world-class bakeries, makes for the perfect California day trip.
I recently visited Solvang to put together the definitive itinerary for first-time visitors. This guide, summarized from my full video, covers all the Top 10 Things to Do in Solvang, from finding the best pastries to uncovering the region's Spanish history.
Here is the full guide and a breakdown of everything you need to know before you go!
💬 Disclosure: Some of the links in this post could be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work and allows me to keep creating free travel content. I only recommend places, products, and experiences I truly love and think you’ll enjoy too.
Watch the Full Video: Top 10 Things to Do in Solvang
If you prefer to see the vibe, the food, and the sights in action, you can watch the video guide right here:
Your Solvang Day Trip Itinerary: The Top 10 Must-See Stops
This guide is structured as a walkable loop, starting and ending at the convenient public parking behind the Visitor Center on Copenhagen Drive.
1. The Vibe and the Vital First Stop: Bakeries
Your trip starts on Copenhagen Drive, the heart of the village. Before you do anything else, you have a crucial decision to make: which bakery to hit first!
Aebleskiver: You must try these traditional Danish pancake balls. They are soft, sweet, and usually dusted with powdered sugar and jam. The Solvang Restaurant is known for their Aebleskiver and this is also where I got lunch. I went with the Open-Face Sandwich Platter - while it was tasty, I was hoping for it to be more like the delicious smørrebrød you can get in Denmark. I would say this was the Americanized version of the Danish classic.
Danish Bakeries: Solvang is known for its many Danish bakeries. It’s really hard to pick a favorite, but for me, the standout was the Princess Cake from Danish Mill Bakery. It's marzipan-topped and absolutely divine. It's so good, I recommend saving a piece for later... (more on that in the Pro-Tips section!).
Architecture Tip: As you stroll, remember to look up! You'll spot the iconic ornamental storks on many of the rooftops - they are a Danish symbol of good luck.
2. History and Contrast at Old Mission Santa Inés
From Copenhagen Drive, head over to Alisal Road for more bakeries and Danish architecture including one of the several windmills in town. Take the path behind Birkholm’s Bakery, and you'll find the majestic Old Mission Santa Inés. This is a powerful historical contrast to the Danish architecture, reminding you of California's deep Spanish roots.
Budget Tip: The exterior grounds and the front of the Mission building are completely free to walk and admire.
The Full Experience: I highly recommend paying the small admission fee for the self-guided tour. You gain access to the beautifully restored church, the fascinating museum artifacts, and the peaceful interior gardens and historic cemetery.
3. The Hidden Gems on Mission Drive
As you make your way down Mission Drive, you'll encounter some of Solvang's most unique stops.
Iconic Sights: You’ll pass the Little Mermaid Fountain (a nod to Copenhagen), the Hans Christian Museum, and a park where you can find a bust of the famed storyteller. This park is also the central hub for the annual Julefest Christmas celebration. Click here for the dates and details.
The Rare Ansonia Clock: Keep your eyes peeled for this unusual sight. The four-dial street clock is a rare American antique from the 1880s - one of only three known to exist! It's a fun "hidden gem" to look for.
Unique Shopping: Don't miss the Jule Hus, a charming shop that sells Christmas items year-round.
4. Pro-Tips: Wine, Cake, and a Perfect Ending
This part of the trip is where you can truly relax and apply some insider knowledge.
The Wine Tasting Hack: Solvang is in the Santa Ynez Valley, a world-famous wine region. I highly recommend stopping at Sanger Family of Wines. They have a nice tasting room and patio.
Here is the Pro-Tip: They allow outside food! Pair a glass of local wine with that Princess Cake you saved or grab a new pastry from Mortensen’s Bakery next door - it is the perfect way to unwind.
The Beer Alternative: If wine isn't your speed, head a little further down the street to the Solvang Brewing Company. Their beer garden is a great place to enjoy local craft beer under a towering windmill.
From there, a short walk takes you back to the start of the tour passing one more windmill on Copenhagen Drive at Hamlet Square.
Ready to Go? Download the FREE Digital Guide & Map!
While this blog post hits the highlights, the easiest way to guarantee you don't miss a single stop is by using my custom walking guide.
The Solvang Day Trip: Self-Guided Walking Tour Map includes:
A step-by-step, easy-to-follow route map.
Pinpoint locations for all the Top 10 sights.
Clear directions for the 1-mile loop.
All my pro-tips for parking and dining, right on your phone!
👉 Click Here to Download Your Solvang Walking Tour Guide & Map:
Conclusion
Solvang is a destination that delivers on its charm, history, and food. Whether you are coming for a seasonal event like Julefest or just need a unique weekend escape, following this itinerary ensures you experience the very best of California's little Danish village.
Happy travels, and enjoy your trip to Solvang!
— Chris at Trip Tips with Chris