Image 1 of 3
Image 2 of 3
Image 3 of 3
Solvang Day Trip: Self-Guided Walking Tour Map & Top 10 Must-See Stops (FREE GUIDE)
Explore America's Danish Village at your own pace with this essential self-guided walking tour. Discover authentic European architecture, iconic windmills, and the Top 10 Must-See Stops with this guide to Solvang, CA. This easy-to-follow route is perfect for first-time visitors and designed to help you find the best bakeries, history, and pro-tips for your unforgettable day trip!
Explore America's Danish Village at your own pace with this essential self-guided walking tour. Discover authentic European architecture, iconic windmills, and the Top 10 Must-See Stops with this guide to Solvang, CA. This easy-to-follow route is perfect for first-time visitors and designed to help you find the best bakeries, history, and pro-tips for your unforgettable day trip!
Highlights Include:
Danish Architecture & Windmills: Step into "Little Denmark" as you wander streets lined with authentic half-timbered buildings, thatched roofs, and the village's four iconic windmills. The scenery is truly transportive.
Old Mission Santa Inés: Explore the fascinating history of California's 19th mission, founded by the Spanish Franciscans in 1804. Walk the peaceful grounds and, if you take the tour, discover the beautifully preserved church and historic cemetery.
The Rare Ansonia Clock: Discover a unique piece of industrial history! Your guide points you to one of only three remaining four-dial Ansonia Street Clocks from the 1880s—a surprising non-Danish gem!
Iconic Sights: See the famous Little Mermaid Fountain, the Hans Christian Andersen Bust, and the location of the annual Julefest Christmas celebration.
Unique Shopping: Browse the European imports at boutique shops, including the year-round festive Jule Hus Christmas store and local favorites like Ingeborg's Danish Chocolates.
Food & Drink Favorites
Aebleskiver: A must-try! Discover where to find these fluffy, traditional Danish pancake balls, usually served with raspberry jam and powdered sugar.
World-Class Bakeries: Follow my lead to the Danish Mill Bakery (bakers to royalty!) to try the delicious Princess Cake, and learn where to find other famous spots like Birkholm’s and Mortensen’s.
Solvang Restaurant: Get my honest review of the open-face sandwiches and learn what to order at this classic dining establishment.
Wine Tasting Pro-Tip: Visit the Sanger Family of Wines tasting room and use my insider hack for enjoying outside food (like that Princess Cake!) with your wine.
Solvang Brewing Company: Recommended stop for beer lovers, featuring local brews and a relaxing outdoor beer garden overlooked by a massive windmill.
Why Choose This Digital Guide?
Explore at Your Own Pace: No need to rush with a group. Stop for photos, grab a bite, explore detours, or spend extra time at your favorite bakery.
Optimized, Seamless Route: The walking path is organized into easy-to-follow segments, flowing naturally from the Visitor Center, hitting all the Top 10 sights, and bringing you right back to your car.
Local Insights & Pro-Tips: This guide includes history, fun facts (like the Ansonia Clock and storks), and my personal food and wine hacks to make your visit smoother and more memorable.
Instant & Easy to Use: Download the PDF and access it on your phone, tablet, or laptop.
Tour Quick Facts
Starting/Ending Point: Public Parking Lot at the Solvang Visitor Center (Copenhagen Drive)
Approx. Distance: 1 miles / 1.6 km
Estimated Time: Plan for around 4 hours, but this varies based on bakery and restaurant stops, museum visits, and whether you take the full Mission tour.
Ready to explore this picturesque little piece of Denmark in California? Download your guide and start planning your perfect Solvang Day Trip today!
See a Preview of Your Adventure!
Watch the full video tour below to see what you can expect on this tour of Solvang.