Tanama Tales

California Travel and Lifestyle Blog

You are here: Home / Blog / Things to Do in Solvang, California: Attractions and Food

Blog California Santa Barbara Travel USA

Things to Do in Solvang, California: Attractions and Food

This article discusses the many wonderful things to do in Solvang, the Danish Capital of the United States.

In Santa Barbara County, there is a little piece of paradise nestled among mountains.

The Santa Ynez Valley is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns.  What is surprising to many is that, more than a 100 years ago, a group of Danes settled in a corner of this idyllic place.

Their village, Solvang (sunny fields) became the “Danish Capital of the USA.”  Danish architecture, culture, and food survived the test of time.

For those who are interested in visiting this enchanting place, I have prepared this article with details on things to do in Solvang.

Things to Do in Solvang

Solvang may be small but it offers a lot of things to see and do.  To enjoy the town and area attractions, I recommend putting together a two or three-day itinerary. Find below ideas to fill up your days!

Wander Around Downtown Solvang

If you have not been to Solvang before, I recommend you start your visit by taking a walk around the streets showcasing half-timbered structures, thatched roofs, towers, and windmills.

The area known as Downtown Solvang is where all the action occurs.  Due to its compactness, it is possible to walk the streets of interest in one or two hours (depends on how many times you stop).

Make sure to check out Mission Drive, Copenhagen Drive, Atterdag Road, 1st Street, and Alisal Road.  Have your camera ready since there are tons of photo opportunities on these thoroughfares.

Windmill at Alisal Road in Solvang, California

Spot as Many Danish Icons as Possible

After getting familiar with the town, it is time to take a deeper look.  Many people criticize the entire Solvang concept since they tie it to commercial and touristic purposes.  However, I believe the town can immerse you into Danish culture.

That is why I encourage you to find (and learn about) the Danish icons found in town.  Here are a few.

Round Tower

A 1:3 replica of Copenhagen’s Round Tower (Rundetaarn) is located on Alisal Road, close to the big windmill.  The original tower was built in the 17th century as an astronomical observatory.  Nowadays, the tower counts with an observation deck.

ROund Tower, Solvang, California, What to do in Solvang

Old Stock Exchange

The Old Stock Exchange is one of the most beautiful buildings in Copenhagen.  What we have in Solvang is a replica of its notorious spire which is shaped as the tails of four dragons twined together.  The spire is located at 1st Street and Molle Way.

Windmills

The first windmill in Solvang was built by Ferdinand Sorensen after he returned from a trip to Denmark.  Later on, three more were built.

The four windmills are still standing and they are one of the biggest attractions in town.  I never get tired of photographing them (especially when the sun is setting).  You will have no problem finding these.  Some hotels have built their own windmills in front of their properties.

Note: If you think windmills are not a Danish thing, take a look at this article.

Windmill at Solvang, California

Storks in Rooftops

In Denmark, storks are a symbol of happiness and good luck.  Also, they are associated with babies thanks to a story written by Hans Christian Andersen.

This beloved bird is celebrated on the roofs of Solvang.  You are going to find many wooden and metal replicas.  Look up so you can spot them.

Stork in Solvang's Roof, Solvang What to do

Hans Christian Andersen Statue

Hans Christian Andersen, one of Denmark’s predilect sons, wrote thousand of fairy tales including the Little Mermaid, the Ugly Duckling, and Thumbelina.

His legacy is celebrated in Solvang with a statue located on a park bearing his name.

Little Mermaid Statue

Last but not least, Solvang has a replica of the Little Mermaid Statue located in Copenhagen. The statue is located at one of the corners of Mission rive and Alisal Road.

Gorge on Danish Pastries

Solvang’s bakeries are famous all around the region.  Some of the most popular ones have branched out to Santa Barbara and towns in the San Luis Obispo County.

They sell butter cookies, butter ring coffee cake, cinnamon swirl bread, kringles, strudel, Danish waffles, and a large selection of pastries.  For maximum freshness, I recommend visiting before noon.  Some of the bakeries are fully stocked until later times during the high season.

Olsen’s and Mortensen’s are good places to get your sugar fix. Other bakeries are located along Alisal Road and Copenhagen Drive.  The bakeries have dining rooms.  Therefore, you can enjoy whatever you get with a cup of coffee or another drink of your preference.

Bakeries and restaurants sell buckets of butter cookies (they contain three pounds).  These are ideas to take home or give as a gift.

Cinnamon rolls in one of Solvang's bakery

Try the Aebleskievers

I just described all the wonderful things you can find in the town’s bakeries but the aebleskivers deserve a special mention.

Think about these delicious morsels as a spherical pancake.  Some say the texture is fluffier and lighter.  They can be served with raspberry or strawberry jam.

The Solvang Restaurant has a walk-up window from where aebleskivers can be ordered. The restaurant sells everything necessary to prepare them at home (including the pan).

Eat Danish and Scandinavian Delicacies

Even if you are not familiar with Danish food, there are plenty of dishes to try in places such as The Red Viking, Solvang Restaurant and Bit O’Denmark.

In these restaurants, you may be able to find the following dishes:

  • Pickled Herring
  • Cured Salmon
  • Liver Paste
  • Sausages
  • Swedish Meatballs
  • Wienerschnitzel
  • Hakkebøf – grilled onions, cucumber, lean beef patty, with an over-easy egg on top with brown gravy and mashed potatoes
  • Fisk filet – Fish and chips
  • Open-faced Danish sandwiches
    • Roast beef on pumpernickel with remoulade, horseradish garnished with Danish cucumbers, and potato salad
    • Roast pork with prunes, red cabbage, Danish Tilsit cheese, Danish ham, Italian salad, asparagus, and homemade

Danish pancakes and Belgian waffles can be had at places such as Paula’s Pancake House and Belgian Cafe.

Some flavors may be too strong for unaccustomed palates but I am sure you can find something of your liking.

Pickled herring at The Red Viking, Solvang, California, Things to do in Solvang

Try a Smörgåsbord

Talking about Danish and Scandinavian specialties, if you want to take things to the next level, you can try the Smörgåsbord at The Red Viking Restaurant.

Smörgåsbord is a type of Scandinavian meal served buffet-style with multiple dishes of various foods on a table. It is typically a celebratory meal and guests can help themselves from a range of dishes laid out for their choice. Surprisingly, it originated in Sweden but other Nordic (and Baltic) countries participate in it.

Here is a sample of what’s on offer:

  • Homemade liver pate with mushrooms and bacon
  • Danish Tilsit cheese
  • Danish Ham
  • Danish cucumbers
  • Swedish meatballs
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Red Cabbage
  • Danish sausage
  • Pickled Herring
  • Pickled Herring in Mustard and Dill Sauce
  • Cocktail shrimp
  • Cabbage in Mustard Sauce
  • Potato Salad
  • Italian Pasta Salad
  • Crispy Onions
  • Coleslaw
  • Hard-boiled Eggs
  • Chocolate Pudding
  • Fruit
  • Freshly baked pastries and bread from Olsen’s Bakery

My husband and I love to stop by this restaurant and enjoy these beloved dishes that are often so difficult to have in Los Angeles.

Go Wine Tasting

In case you have not noticed, Solvang is located in wine country.  The Santa Ynez Valley has several American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) and, as a consequence, many wine tasting rooms are clustered in The Valley towns.

Solvang alone has about 15 tasting rooms.  That is more than enough to plan a day around this activity.  The best part is that you can walk from one place to another.  There is no need to involve a car.

The best tasting rooms in town are the following:

  • Lucas & Lewellen
  • Toccata (owned by Lucas & Lewellen, specialize in Italian grapes)
  • Dascomb Cellars
  • Carivintas
  • Lions Peak (serve wine from different houses)
  • D. Volk Wines

Cali Love and Lucky Dogg have a youthful atmosphere. Sort this Out Cellar has a Tiki Bar in addition to wine tasting.

Note: Stop by the Visitor Center to see if you can grab 2-for-1 wine tasting flyers.  This can help you to save a good amount of money.

Read More: Best Solvang Wineries and Tasting Room

Celebrate Christmas All Year-Round

Jule Hus (Christmas House) has been in operation since 1967.  The store specializes in Scandinavian Christmas ornaments.  Artifacts from other European countries are available for sale too.

Stop by to (possibly) be transported to your childhood.  I grew up in Puerto Rico and even there we had nutcrackers.  Seeing the collection in the store brings a lot of good memories.

Jule HUs, Solvang California, What to do in Solvang

Visit a Museum

For a small town of 5,000 residents, Solvang has quite a varied offer of museums.  Here is a list of what you can find in town.

Elverhøj Museum of History & Art

This museum, located in a beautiful structure built in the style of a Danish farmhouse, has exhibits about Solvang’s history, Vikings, and works by local artists.  I find this museum very interesting and it offers the opportunity to learn about the area and the costumes of the Nordic Countries.

Admission is free (suggested donation is $5).

Solvang Vintage Museum

The motorcycles in this museum are owned by collector Virgil Elings.  For the past two decades, Elings have been collecting models from brands such as BMW, Ducati, and Velocette.  Admission is $10.

Hans Christian Andersen Museum

The Hans Christian Andersen Museum is located on the upper floor of The Book Loft, an independent bookstore.  It features exhibits about the life and works of the author.  It highlights how Andersen gained international fame with his fairytales.  This is a very simple place. Do not expect elaborated exhibits.  Admission is free.

Wilding Museum

This small museum is dedicated to showcasing the value and beauty of nature through art.  In addition, it aims to promote wildlife and natural habitat conservation. Their exhibitions change seasonally and they offer different workshops to the community.  Admission is $5.  Entrance is free every third Wednesday of the month.

The Great Hall of Danes and Amber Museum

These two spaces are located at the back of a store called The Copenhagen House.  The first one features the history of Danish Vikings and the second showcases amber antiques and artifacts (even insects encrusted in amber). I find these two spaces excellent and recommend you make some time to visit.  Admission is free.  Remember to take some time to check out the store.  It is always a good idea to be inspired by Scandinavian design.

Hans Christian Andersen Museum California, Things to do in Solvang

Stop by One of California’s 21 Mission

When Solvang founders arrived at the Santa Ynez Valley, the mission giving the name to the entire region had been standing for more than 100 years.

The Danish-Americans ended buying a plot of land next to the Santa Ines Mission (where they started to build the town). The rest is history.  Spanish and Danish heritages have been coexisting for more than a century.

Nowadays, the Mission is open to the public for guided or self-guided tours.  On a visit, the church, museum, and garden can be explored.

It is possible to walk to the Mission from Solvang’s Center.  Parties with kids may decide to reach the place by car.  Ample parking is available.

Note:  The other Mission in the Santa Ynez Valley, La Purisima Concepcion, is located in Lompoc, 18 miles from Solvang.

Mission Santa Ines, Solvang, California

Buy Fresh Fruits and Vegetables at the Farmers Market

If you happen to be in town on a Wednesday, make sure to browse the flower, produce, bread, nuts, and cheese stalls of Solvang’s Farmers Market.  In an agricultural area like these, you are destined to find a wide array of fresh and delectable products.  The market takes place on 1st Street from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Explore the Town by Bike

Hotels in the area often lend bicycles to guests.  If your hotel does not offer this service, you can rent a bike (including electric ones) or surreys at Wheel Fun Rentals.

Many people choose to ride around town but, on request, a route map with points of interest can be provided.  In that way, you can explore nearby towns, wine tasting rooms, and historical structures.

You can also tour the town by trolley, horse cart, and segway.

Half-timbered houses in Solvang, California, Things to do in Solvang

Have a Picnic or Stretch your Legs at a Park

With the overwhelming number of things to do in Solvang, I can understand if you (or your kids) need a break.

Right in the heart of Downtown, you will find Solvang Park.  This is a popular spot to picnic or rest under the shadow of the trees.

Kids will enjoy the Hans Christian Andersen and the Sunny FIelds parks.

Attend One of the Great Events

Solvang knows how to throw a party! If you want to get to know the area a little bit more, I recommend setting aside time to attend a local event.  Here are some ideas.

Taste of Solvang – March

Danish Days – September

Solvang Stop – October

Julefest (Christmas Festival) – December

For more information about local festivities, subscribe to the visitor’s bureau e-newsletter.

Make Friends with the Locals

There are a lot of fun things to do in Solvang but people are the main reason I keep visiting the area.  Locals are a friendly bunch and they are welcoming as hell.

I encourage you to get engaged in conversation and share a bit of your story.  Residents will surely do and it is up to you to respond to that openness.

Nearby Attractions

Wait! There is more!

I cannot write about Solvang and obviate the following attractions:

Ostrichland USA (2.5 miles) – A fun spot where you can feed ostriches and emus

Quicksilver Ranch (2.8 miles) – Ranch breeding miniature horses.  The public is welcome to stop by to take a look at the horses for free

Chumash Casino Resort (3.2 miles) – this is a spot for those who enjoy gambling and buffets

Many, many vineyards – it is impossible to name every single vineyard located close to Solvang.  If you have something specific in mind, you can get recommendations at the visitors center or at the tasting rooms in town. Companies such as Grapeline, Stagecoach, and Artisan Excursion offer wine country tours.

Ostrich at Ostrichland USA, Buellton, California

Nearby Towns

The Santa Ynez Valley is full of beautiful towns. Combining a visit to Solvang with other towns in the area is a good idea.

Los Olivos – This is probably my favorite town in the valley.  Find wine tasting rooms, gardens, and nice restaurants.

Los Olivos: A Tiny Town with a Big Heart

Los Olivos in Photos

Santa Ynez – This is the cowboy town of the valley

Buellton – Another small town with good restaurants and several tasting rooms

Things to Do in Buellton

Lompoc – This town located 20 miles from Solvang is known for its flower fields, downtown murals, wine ghetto, and beaches.

Things to Do in Lompoc

Solvang Restaurants

In this article, I have discussed restaurants and bakeries serving Danish and Scandinavian specialties.  However, here are recommendations for palates interested in other options.

Fresco Valley Cafe – Serves New American dishes such as seared ahi tuna wraps, hot dip sandwiches, and cheeseburgers

Root 246 – Specializes in serving modern dishes with fresh ingredients.  You will find braised octopus, Osso Bucco, and aged steak on the menu

Succulent Cafe – Comfort food with a gourmet twist.  I love their fried chicken, curried chicken salad, and meatloaf sandwich

Panino – Serves sandwiches, soups, and salads in a casual environment

Industrial Eats – This restaurant is located in nearby Buellton but I am including it here because, in my opinion, it has the best food in the valley.  This place is worth the detour or drive. Really, just go!

Sausage Platter at Copenhagen Sausage, Solvang, Califonria, Things to do in Solvang

Solvang Location and Access

Solvang is located 35 miles from Santa Barbara, 70 miles from San Luis Obispo, and 128 miles from Los Angeles.

From Santa Barbara, it is faster to reach Solvang using CA-154.  This scenic route will take you through the San Marcos Pass and the Santa Ynez Mountains.  You can also reach Solvang using US-101 (the freeway). This route affords incredible views of the Gaviota Coast, one of the largest undeveloped coastal areas in California.

A good idea is to take CA-154 to go to the town and return through US-101.  If you are driving at night, I recommend taking the freeway.

Weather and Seasonality

As in other parts of California, the weather in Solvang is nearly perfect. During winter, high temperatures are around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.  Summers can get quite hot with maximum temperatures rounding 90 degrees.

Keep in mind the minimum temperatures can be between 40-50 degrees.  It is a good idea to dress in layers or carry a good jacket on your luggage.

Solvang is open for business all year round.  Summers, the weekend after Thanksgiving, and the period between Christmas and New Years’ are the busiest.  In addition, local festivities can bring hundreds of visitors to the area. I prefer to visit during spring or fall (which is wine harvest season).

Houses on Copenhagen Drive, Solvang, California

Parking

There are two big parking lots along Mission Drive.  There is another lot on Oak Street. Street parking is widely available.  All parking is free.

Accommodation Tips

Prices in Solvang and nearby towns like Buellton and Los Olivos have increased in the last 10 years.  During the week, you should have no problem finding affordable accommodation. Now, everything goes up during weekends.  If you want to get the best price possible, you need to book several weeks before you arrive in town.

I save money by staying at Lompoc, a city located 20 miles from Solvang, on the opposite side of the Santa Ynez Valley.  Hotels are way cheaper in there. Once again, lock in a good rate by booking at least a week before your stay.

Mortensen's Bakery, Solvang, California

More of Solvang

Find more about Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley in my other posts

Solvang Pictures: The Danish Town of my Dreams

Solvang: A Piece of Denmark Close to Home

Solvang’s Sweet Treats Trail

Best Solvang Wineries and Tasting Rooms

More of Santa Barbara

Things to Do, See and Eat in Downtown Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Day Trip

Best Beaches in Santa Barbara

More of Southern California

Find out how to spend one fun-filled day in Los Angeles

Get inspiration by reading my Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List

Ultimate San Diego Bucket List

150+ Places to Go in Orange County

What are your recommendations on things to do in Solvang?

If you enjoyed this article, remember to share!

Pin “Things to Do in Solvang” for later!

Things to do in #Solvang and Santa Barbara – Travel tips and ideas – Solvang, the Danish capital of the US, may be small but it offers a lot of things to see and do. To enjoy the town and area attractions (half-timbered houses, windmills), I recommend putting together a two or three-day itinerary. In this article, find ideas to fill up your days! #California #SantaBarbara

Things to do in #Solvang and Santa Barbara – Travel tips and ideas – Solvang, the Danish capital of the US, may be small but it offers a lot of things to see and do. To enjoy the town and area attractions (half-timbered houses, windmills), I recommend putting together a two or three-day itinerary. In this article, find ideas to fill up your days! #California #SantaBarbara

Things to do in #Solvang and Santa Barbara – Travel tips and ideas – Solvang, the Danish capital of the US, may be small but it offers a lot of things to see and do. To enjoy the town and area attractions (half-timbered houses, windmills), I recommend putting together a two or three-day itinerary. In this article, find ideas to fill up your days! #California #SantaBarbara

Related posts:

Silverwood Lake in San Bernardino County, California Lakes in Southern CaliforniaLakes in Southern California: Ideas for your Next Gateway! South Coast Railroad Museum, Goleta, CaliforniaBest Things to Do in Goleta, California There are thousands, if not millions, of things to do in California. The Golden State, with an area of 163, 696 square miles, truly has it all: beaches, forests, deserts, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, mountains, valleys, vineyards and beds of flowers. Given the facts, how to start planning a trip? Do not worry my friends! I have collected the best things to do in California from experienced traveler. In this article, you will find some of the most exciting activities to do in the state. Get ready since this is going to be a fun ride! Things to Do in California - Northern California There are always going to be differing opinions on how to divide California. For this article’s purpose, we are assuming the northern 48 counties of the state compose Northern California. Drive Around the Redwoods By Pamela Iorg from Travel Hacking Mom One of the biggest tourist draws to the Northern part of California is the magnificent Redwood Trees the area is known for. One of the best places to see them is driving through the Avenue of the Giants. It is a 31-mile section of highway 101 that starts near Phillipsville, California in the south and ends at Stafford in the north end. If you stop at the entrance to Avenue of the Giants, you can pick up a brochure that will tell you about different places to stop and safely view the trees. This two-lane road winds through Redwood National Park, with the Eel River at its side. It will be impossible to keep your eyes on the road while gaping at these awe-inspiring trees. Plan to pull off and enjoy them outside of your car. You can even drive through a huge tree near Myers Flat. The Drive-Through Tree will cost about $8 to go through but is totally worth it – when else will you have the experience of actually driving through a huge Redwood tree? Lady Bird Grove (named after Lady Bird Johnson) is a great place to stop and wander through the Redwoods. It can be a quiet, majestic, and almost spiritual experience. The sheer beauty of these giant trees and the gorgeous scenery that surrounds them will be something you will long remember! Road Trip to Mendocino from SF By Aswani from A Charming Escape Mendocino is a coastal town in Northern California about 3 hours from San Francisco. It is a charming little town with cliffside trails, quiet beaches, ocean view hotels and is perfect for a weekend road trip from SF. The most popular places to stay near Mendocino are Heritage House Resort, Sweetwater Inn and the Stanford Inn but there are also many cute B&Bs. The best and fastest route to get to Mendocino is through Highway 101 and Highway 128 via Sonoma wine country and the redwood forests. Stop at the town of Healdsburg for a quick breakfast. Stroll through downtown before heading into the winding Hwy 128 surrounded by majestic redwood trees. Another great stop on the way to Mendocino is the underrated wine region of Anderson Valley between Boonville and the town of Navarro. This region is home to some of California’s best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wineries. Our favorite wineries in the Anderson Valley are Roederer Estate, Navarro Vineyards, Brutacao Cellars, and Phillips Hill Estates. Once you arrive in Mendocino, hike one of the beautiful trails in Mendocino Headlands State Park for an amazing sunset. Spend the next day exploring the coastal trails and visit the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. It has an impressive collection of camellias, roses, dahlias, magnolias, and many more plants. Catch Firefall in Yosemite National Park By Becky from Bonjour Becky For a few weeks each February, Yosemite's Horsetail Falls becomes Firefall — a stream of red-hot lava glowing in the setting sun. It's every photographer's and sightseer's dream. The phenomenon begins around Valentine's Day every year —exact dates vary— and happens every sunset until March, weather permitting. Plan to stay near Yosemite at least two nights to increase your chance of catching it. The closest parking is a mile away from Firefall, so arrive in Yosemite Valley early and plan to walk a mile along the road to the best viewing spots. You'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of "lava" plunging 3,600 feet down the face of El Capitan. (Bonus: bring a thermos of hot cocoa and some blankets for an extra-cozy evening.) Firefall is a great excuse for a winter trip to Yosemite, which offers year-round hiking and epic views. Snowshoe through a winter wonderland, gaze out at the iconic Tunnel View or go ice skating with views of Half Dome before you head to Firefall in the evening. Once you've seen it, Firefall will burn bright in your memory forever. Photo by Becky Read More: 2 Day Yosemite Itinerary Rent a Cabin in Lake Tahoe in the Winter By Diana from In Between Pictures As many Californians do in the winter, rent a cabin in Lake Tahoe and enjoy the powdery white snow - perfect to snuggle up next to a fire pit with hot cocoa or wine. Lake Tahoe, nestled in the range of Sierra Nevada, is renowned for its breathtaking views and blue water - a sight that you won’t be able to get enough of. While many people visit to hit the slopes, many also like to go to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can go on hikes, enjoy the scenic drive along the lake, or simply relax in the cabin with a good book. If you want to find the best views in Lake Tahoe – though the view is amazing no matter where you go – head to Emerald Bay where you can spot the tiny island Fannette Island. There is no better way to experience this magical place than by staying at a cozy cabin by the lake! Photo by Diana Read More: Lake Tahoe in Pictures Taking the boat to Alcatraz Island By Jo From Discover Discomfort Alcatraz Island (known colloquially as “The Rock”) is just off the coast of San Francisco Bay and is a must-visit if you’re in Northern California. It’s very popular and tickets usually sell out months in advance, so make a reservation well ahead — especially for weekends. Alcatraz Island was turned into a prison in 1934. While it was in operation it was home to the most notorious criminals at the time, including Al Capone, and “Bird Man” Robert Stroud. The conditions of the island — its freezing temperature, turbulent waves and sharp cliffs — made the prison well known for being impossible to escape from… unless you believe the legends! You take a 20-minute tour ferry to the island and then can explore freely, but I’d also recommend the 40-minute audio tour. This audio tour was hands-down one of the most engaging ones I’ve ever experienced. The narration and the dramatic reenactments gives you a glimpse into what life must have been like for the prisoners. You can even take a night tour if you’re looking for an extra spooky vibe. Read More: San Francisco Itinerary: 1, 2 or 3 Days in the City Walk Telegraph Hill and Coit Tower By Rachel from Rachel Ruminations The hills are what make San Francisco a particularly beautiful town: the views of the sea or the bay, the sight of those long, straight downhills that filmmakers so enjoy for chase scenes. Topped by art-deco Coit Tower, Telegraph Hill is a particular joy to climb on a free afternoon. Starting from Washington Square Park, the walk up is pretty, but steep. You will be rewarded by the phenomenal view of the city at Coit Tower’s base, and you can see an even better view if you take the elevator to the top. Make sure to check out the Depression-era murals on the inside of the tower’s ground floor even if you don’t go up. The walk downhill is even prettier than the walk up, if that’s possible. The long Filbert Street steps lead all the way down to sea level near Fishermen’s Wharf, where you’ll undoubtedly meet the tourist throngs. Take your time on the steps, though, and enjoy the lush Grace Marchant Garden and the narrow “streets” leading off on either side. To learn more about this walk, read Coit Tower & Telegraph Hill: An unmissable walk in San Francisco. Ski Lake Tahoe By Christina from Travel2next.com A year-round outdoor playground with amazing beaches, 12 fabulous ski resorts and miles of biking and hiking trails, Lake Tahoe is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. With soaring peaks and stunning lakes, Lake Tahoe is also a skier’s parades that straddles both California and Nevada. One of the unique things about a Lake Tahoe winter is you can ski across the border! One of the benefits of skiing in Lake Tahoe is that the ski areas are within easy reach of one another and you can try several ski resorts in one trip. Sierra at Tahoe has some of the best tree skiing and plenty of powder. NorthStar is an excellent intermediate ski resort with a fabulous base village to hang out at the end of the day. Sugar Bowl is the most convenient resort to get to if you’re coming from San Francisco Bay Area. It has a mid-sized ski area and is excellent for families. Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley are two ski areas covered under one lift ticket. Squaw Valley hosted the 1960 Olympics and is a favorite of many professional skiers. The fifth-largest ski area in North America has a fun party atmosphere is Heavenly Mountain Resort, which has plenty of terrain and is the. Read More: Drive Around Lake Tahoe Bike Across the Golden Gate Bridge By Luda from Adventures with Luda If you’re traveling to San Francisco and looking for a fun (and adventurous) activity, rent a bike and get to pedaling across the Golden Gate Bridge! I recommend this for three main reasons: you’ll see amazing views of the San Francisco bay, work off some calories (psst - Japantown has some pretty great restaurants!), and you can explore other cities. There are plenty of places to rent a bike, but I recommend picking a company in the Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood since it’s closest to the Bridge. The 20-minute bike ride over to the starting point will take you through some fairly flat streets, and you can stop near Crissy Field if you’d like to take a few photos of the waterfront. When biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s important to note that there are two sidewalks: one is for pedestrians, and the other is for bikers. If you don’t know which one to take, just take a look at where everyone else is going or ask one of the employees at the concession stand. If you’re flexible on timing, you can bike all the way across the bridge and explore the neighboring town of Tiburon. This cozy little town is famous for its quirky boutiques, grassy parks, and scenic waterfront. If you plan to make the trip to Tiburon, ask the bike rental employee for a bicycle lock, as there are plenty of bicycle “parking” near the waterfront. Read More: Los Angeles to San Francisco Drive Book a Spot at the Sonoma Wine Trolley By Taima from Poor in a Private Plane If you are looking for a unique way to discover Sonoma then check out the Sonoma Wine Trolley. The tour begins in downtown Sonoma which is a great place to grab a bite before starting your wine adventure. Grab a bite at Sunflower Cafe and then make your way to Sonoma Plaza where you will board your wheels for the day. The wine trolley is a replica of a vintage California Street Cable Car used in San Francisco in the early 1900s. It’s an excellent way to experience Sonoma Valley in the open air trolley. The tour will take you to four different wineries with a stop for lunch. At one of the wineries you will be served a picnic lunch catered by The Girl and The Fig, one of the best restaurants in Sonoma. Once you have visited all four wineries the tour will drop you back off at Sonoma Plaza where you will have your pick of places to have dinner before turning in for the night. Whether it is your first time visiting Sonoma or you’re looking for a new way to experience Sonoma, the Sonoma Wine Trolley is a truly unique and fun experience. Photo by Taima Taste Craft Beer at the Russian River Brewery By Derek from Robe Trotting Napa and Sonoma valleys are rightly world-renowned for the vineyards, but one of my favorite stops in Sonoma valley was actually one of the best craft breweries in the world. Russian River Brewing Company has become world-famous for its Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger IPAs, hailed by many aficionados as the best beers in the world (Pliny the Younger is brewed once a year and is an especially hot ticket to enjoy). But they offer more than just IPAs, as their sours (named Consecration, Supplication, and Temptation) are world-class. Russian River now offers two locations in Sonoma Valley, including their original taproom in Santa Rosa and a new brewery and brewpub in Windsor. The Santa Rosa location can get packed in evenings, but they offer excellent pizzas and wings to pair with the beers. The Windsor location has a little less traffic and offers a broader menu, plus you can take a tour of their brewery. Visit the Mystery Spot By Rosie from Popcuria The Mystery Spot is a fun and quirky addition to any California trip and a great activity for all ages. This classic roadside attraction is now a California Historical Landmark and worth a stop on any drive up Highway One. Tucked away in the redwoods just outside of Santa Cruz, CA, the Mystery Spot is home to strange gravitational anomalies that will make you question your own eyes. Take the Mystery Spot’s guided tour and experience this supernatural phenomenon for yourself. Your tour will take you on a whimsical walk through the redwoods where the basics of physics do not seem to apply. Within the confines of the Mystery Spot, balls roll up hill instead of down and your friends and family appear taller and shorter than in real life. Take Instagram-worthy shots of your friends leaning off tables at unnatural angles inside the Spot’s topsy-turvy house. Snag the Mystery Spot’s bumper sticker at the end of your tour to commemorate your time at this iconic roadside pitstop. Read More: Santa Cruz Boardwalk in Pictures Hold a Baby Goat and Eat Cheese By Constance from Adventures of Panda Bear Harley Farms in Pescadero, CA is goat dairy farm located off of the northern California coast between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. The farm has a variety of animals including chickens, a donkey, guardian llamas, Anatolian shepards, and of course, goats. All of the animals on the farm are working animals, the goats, in particular, provide milk for goat cheese. The farm’s dairy produces a variety of award-winning goat cheeses ranging from plain to cranberry walnut and garden chive, and more. The cheeses alone are well worth the visit! The best thing about visiting Harley Goat Farms is their baby goats. Take a farm tour during the spring months after the baby goats, or “kids” as they’re called, are born. Then, you’ll be able to see and hold a baby goat! The farm tour is also super informative and you’ll learn a lot about how to hold a baby goat, the farm’s operations, animals, and their cheese. The highlight of it all are definitely the baby goats, they are too cute! Stop by a Hot Spring By Athul from Our Backpack Tales Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Glass Mountain Ridge in California is the Crowley Hot Springs also known as Wild Willy's Hot Springs. You can reach the trail close to US 395 by taking the Benton Crossing Road. The Crowley Hot Springs are open 24 hours a day and it is absolutely free. From the parking lot, you can see an elevated wooden walkway. A short walk of around 0.32 km through the beautiful backdrop of mountains is an amazing experience. The walkway slopes slightly downward and ends almost abruptly by the pools. It is about 10 feet wide and 3 feet deep, and you can easily take a dip in it! This hot spring contains one small and one large pool. The temperature in these pools can vary from 95 to 105 degrees. The bigger pool can accommodate a dozen of people but the small pool can accommodate some. The area surrounding the pool is stunning with mountains and grasslands in the backdrop. There are few option for camping in the surrounding area. These hot springs are in a fragile ecosystem so all should follow leave no trace behind policy to keep them clean. Things to Do in California - Central California Here are some of the things you can do around California’s Central area. If you ask me, this is one of the most thrilling parts of the state. Drive Around Big Sur By Dhara from It's Not About the Miles Driving the Big Sur stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway between Carmel and Ragged Point should be high on your list of things to do in California. Considered one of the most scenic coastlines on the planet, the drive gives you the opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Central California coastline. Just a little over 75 miles in length, Highway One hugs the water for most of this route. Where it does not, for short stretches, you will drive through towering redwoods or bucolic countryside. There are numerous pullouts where you can park and enjoy the views at leisure, and take lots of photos. Some of the best places to stop on the Big Sur Coast drive include Point Lobos State park, just south of the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the very wild Garrapata State Park, with hiking trails if you want to stretch your legs, and the historic Bixby Creek Bridge, considered an engineering marvel. Drive the road in late spring after the rains are over, and you will see gorgeous wildflowers along the road. The hills are green at this time as well, and look gorgeous against the blue of the ocean. Ride a Buggy at the Oceano Dunes By Sharon from Daily Dream 360 If you are looking for a little adventure on the beach, you may want to consider a dune buggy ride at Oceano Dunes State Park, which is located 3 miles from Pismo Beach. This activity is a great add-on when visiting the San Luis Obispo region of California. You will find plenty of Dune Buggy rental companies just outside the state park entrance. Once you complete a vehicle orientation, you'll be driven to the site within the state park and get set up with your vehicles. Your tour operator will offer directions, a map and will guide you to the area where you are allowed to drive your buggy. The park has a designated area for off-road vehicles and several restrictions with regards to speed. What I loved about the Dune Buggy ride was that I was able to choose my level of thrill. Some of the Sand Dunes were very high, and there was a high risk from coming down from a dune and getting stuck before moving back up another. For thrill-seekers, there is plenty of challenging dunes to conquer. For those less adventurous, there were some smaller hills and the very scenic ride along the ocean. Photo by Sharon Read More: Things to Do in Pismo Beach Things to Do in Avila Beach Things to Do in California - Southern California This is the part of the state I call home. After more than 15 years living here, I am still discovering new places. Check out the super fun recommendations below! Road Cycle in Santa Barbara County By Clare from Epic Road Rides If you fancy a spot of road cycling, Santa Barbara County in southern California, is a fantastic place to do it. It's a beautiful region that’s warm and sunny for much of the year. Winters tend to be short and mild. Head to the Santa Ynez valley and you’ll find quiet rolling roads that take you through gorgeous vineyards and pretty ranches with wide open fields dotted with well-groomed horses. In the village of Solvang, you’ll find an excellent bike shop that can fit you out with everything you need (you can rent too) and set you off to explore the countryside. There are around 120 wineries in this area, clustered around the pretty towns and villages of Solvang, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. Many cyclists take the opportunity to combine cycling with a wine tour as many of the wineries open their doors to people who want to come and learn about wine and enjoy some wine tasting. Exploring by bike is the best way to really get to know a region, and I highly recommend the Santa Ynez Valley! Photo by Clare Read More: Things to Do in Solvang Mountain Bike at Snow Summit By Heather from That OC Girl If you thought Big Bear’s Snow Summit was only for winter, you got it wrong. In the summertime, the ski lifts at Snow Summit are transformed into mountain bike lifts, taking you up to an elevation of 8,000 feet and dropping you into the coolest downhill bike park in Southern California. Snow Summit has around 18 miles of mountain bike trails, including trails for the beginner all the way to the most advanced riders. The beginner level trail “Going Green” is the longest in the park at 2.5 miles, and is the most basic of all. It’s a great idea to start with this trail to get warmed up! The blue-rated trails are the most fun; this is where you can really let loose and sharpen your skills. The trails rated as black diamond are the most difficult trails in the park. You will find built-in features like jumps and berms, but most of the time you can bypass those features if you are not up for the challenge. Get some practice in at the Base Area to improve your skills before attempting those difficult trails! Day or season passes are available and the park is open to all – kids and adults! Open and closing dates. Photo by Heather Read More: Big Bear Weekend Guide Dive the Channel Islands By James from Travel Collecting One of the top things to do in California is to dive the Channel Islands. There are eight Channel Islands off the coast of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Five of them make up the Channel Islands National Park. The largest, Catalina Island, has places to stay and shore dives as well as boat dives are available. However, you can take day trips straight from just north of LA (Ventura Harbor) to Anacapa Island and just south of LA (San Pedro) to dive sites around Catalina. Dive boats also leave from Santa Barbra to the northern islands, though these are further offshore. The main attraction is diving the Californian giant kelp forests. Kelp stretches from the sea bed up more than forty feet to the surface, creating a magical forest to swim through. Winding your way through a thick screen of golden kelp is an incredible experience. The kelp is home to cheeky seals and sea lions that zoom out of nowhere and right up to your mask, as well as bright orange garibaldi fish. This was one of my favorite dives from the many I have done around the world. It also makes a nice contrast to the other more urban things you can do in Los Angeles. Hike to the Hollywood Sign By Caroline from Pictures and Words Few things scream LA more than the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and the movie industry. One of the coolest things to do in California is to hike up to the Hollywood sign, one of the most iconic sights in LA. Technically, the sign itself is blocked off (and don’t even try to jump the fence) so you are hiking to right behind and above the sign. Still, this is the closest you can get to the sign being able to get so up and close to the iconic monument is such a cool experience! The hike starts inside Griffith Park, from where you can take the Brush Canyon trail. It is a 6.5 mile out and back hike, and is rated moderate difficulty with an 1100 foot elevation gain. Allow about 2 1/2-3 hours to complete the hike. Also be aware that there is hardly any shade on the trail and it tends to get really hot, really fast, so be prepared and carry lots of water with you. Read More: One Day in LA: Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 2 Days in Los Angeles: Downtown-Based Itinerary Self-Guided Multicultural Tour of Los Angeles By Team Hazard Rides Again LA is incredibly diverse. There are people here from every corner of the Earth and LA is happy to give each culture its due. Tim and I once went to 3 cultural events in a single weekend – and we weren't even trying hard. On Friday night we went to a chamber music concert at the big Downtown Library. On Saturday night we were in Hollywood to see Amadou and Mariam, a blind couple from Mali who rocked the Afro-pop scene at the El Rey Theater. And on Sunday we were in Chinatown for a big cultural celebration. There is no single recipe for doing a cultural tour of Los Angeles. There are just too many options. But here are some places to look so you can put together your own multicultural tour of Los Angeles. There are neighborhoods throughout the city like Little Tokyo, Olvera Street, Little Ethiopia, Little Bangladesh and Chinatown, just to name a few. Some of them are a bit touristy, but still fun and there are also many unnamed enclaves where various cultures flourish. They often hold festivals as well. And Long Beach seems to have a festival for something every other week. Keep an eye on local calendars. There are also exhibits and performances exploring different cultures all over town. The Craft and Folk Art Museum on Wilshire almost always has something culturally unique going on, as does the Fowler Museum on the UCLA Campus. You can also check out the USC Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena. Again, to name just a few. Then there are the performances, like Amadou and Mariam we mentioned above, or Prince Diabate whom we saw in some tiny club in Santa Monica. One of the best places to look for these more eclectic events is the LA Weekly. LA's multiculturalism is one of its most awesome features and it's something not to be missed if you're visiting the city. It's easy to stack events that are near you or that suit the dates of your visit. It's LA. There's always something going on! Hike in Joshua Tree National Park By Julie from Family Travel Lifestyle While California is famous for National Parks like Yosemite and the Redwoods, one of our lesser-known parks, Joshua Tree, offers fantastic hiking in a unique desert environment. Located in southern California – just east of Palm Springs, and less than a 3-hour drive from San Diego – Joshua Tree offers numerous trails at every level of hiking. What I love about Joshua Tree is that it isn’t as crowded as many other parks and it’s smaller which means you can do a one-day visit and still get in some great hikes and really feel as though you saw the park. Also, this park offers a lot of loop trails, which I tend to prefer to the ‘out and back’ trails. One of the most popular and can’t-miss trails in Joshua Tree is the Skull Rock loop. It’s pretty easy, good for all levels including children, and you get to see the famous and giant Skull-shaped boulder. There’s a great kids’ nature walk called the Discovery Trail that’s less than a mile if you have really little ones. The bigger hikes offer a great variety of sights. There are several hikes up to different peaks, with outstanding views of the mountains and desert. You can hike out to a palm tree oasis or walk through the boulders and include a little scrambling on your hike. The one thing to watch out for is the heat – it’s no joke at Joshua Tree, so come prepared and enjoy! VIsit the Sunny Jim Sea Caves By April from SoCalFunFamily La Jolla is known for the locals who hang around the beach. And no, I am not talking about the hodads, you know, non-surfers, but the friendly seals lounging right there on the sand. It’s also known as an incredibly fun family area, for its good food, and having the coolest sea caves. However, there is only one cave you can explore without a kayak. And that cave is only accessible through Sunny Jim’s Cave Store. From the exterior it looks just like any other beach themed gift shop, but upon further review you might see the long dark tunnel leading what looks like directly into the ground. This is the access to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave, which was dug out in 1902. To reach the bottom you will pay $5 for adults, and $3 for children, walk down 145 dark, narrow stairs and come out on a damp wooden platform to take in the waves and views from below. This hidden gem is a unique experience if you are in the area. But, make sure to mingle with the locals on the shore below and check out the free, smaller caves right there as well. Read More: One Day in San Diego Pedal Boat At Lake Murray By Martina from Stack Your Dollars One of the best and most relaxing things to do in sunny San Diego is to take a ride on the water at Lake Murray. On a hot day, getting on a pedal boat is a great way to get a nice breeze and cool off. You’ll also be putting those leg muscles to work and getting in some fun exercise! Lake Murray is a 171 acre reservoir with a 3.2 mile shoreline; it can be found on the border of San Diego, La Mesa, and Santee. To rent the pedal boat, you have to go into the concession stand by the parking lot. It costs about $15 to rent per hour, with an additional $15 for a deposit. The boat fits about 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. This low-cost activity is a great way to get out and have fun. It allowed my family to stick to our very frugal budget. If you would prefer, there are also kayaks, canoes, row boats, and motor boats. However, the pedal boat is my favorite because it also has a canopy to block the sun! Whale Watch in Newport Beach By Rebecca from KwaFare One of the most thrilling outdoor experiences you can have in California is to get up close and personal with some of the largest animals on earth. Whale watching in Southern California can put you right in the migratory path of humpback, minke, fin and gray whales. Even orcas are spotted from time to time, as well as sperm whales and blue whales, the largest animal to have ever lived. An excellent spot for whale watching is Newport Beach, which is only about an hour from LAX airport or downtown Los Angeles. Newport Beach is a cozy community where you’ll find Balboa Pier and Island and some great beaches. My go to whale watching company here is Davey’s Locker. And for good reason. First, they regularly have sales for their whale watching tours on Groupon. So, for about the price of a movie ticket you can take a front row seat to these magnificent creatures for over a couple of hours. But what I really enjoy is hearing the excitement of the crew every time we get to see a whale out at sea. This testifies to just how electrifying it is to witness these deep sea giants in their natural habitat. Despite how many times they get to see them, every time it’s a thrill. And the thrill is definitely contagious. You just never know what you are going to see when you get out on the boat. However, if you want to up your chances of sighting whales go out during their migration times. In general, winter and spring are great times to see gray whales, humpback and minke whales. And summer and fall are ideal for blue whales, finbacks, orcas and sperm whales. So whether you find yourself in the middle of a pod of hundreds of dolphins or next to an enormous blue whale, this is one of those things to do in California that is not to be missed! Visit the Center of the World By Theresa from The Local Tourist Just inside the border in the southeast corner of the state, you can put your toes on the officially designated Center of the World. Felicity, California, is home to the Museum of History in Granite and the Center of the World and is a destination worth a visit that's a whole lot less kitschy than it sounds. In 1985, Jacques-André wrote a children’s book titled “Coe: The Good Dragon at the Center of the World.” Somehow, this Frenchman and Father of American Parachuting convinced the Imperial County Board of Supervisors and Institut Géographique National, the French Mapping Agency, that property he owned in Imperial County should be declared the Center of the World. You can visit this town, population two, and not only make a wish inside a pyramid but also browse granite tablets etched with history. They're designed to last 4,000 years and the goal is that they'll preserve the entirety of humanity for millennia to come. It's a quirky destination with a noble promise, and should definitely be on any southern California itinerary. ATV in the Imperial Sand Dunes By Kay from The Awkard Traveler It isn't general knowledge, but California has sand dunes. Some of the best California sand dunes are found in Southern California. Specifically, the Imperial Sand Dunes State Park right near the border of Mexico. Winter is arguable a better season to visit, especially when summer temperatures can easily reach over 110F. But that also means winter is the most busy time to visit. So, pick your poison. From San Diego, the drive is about 2.5hours, 2 hours from Palm Springs, and 3 hours from Los Angeles, making the Imperial Sand Dunes an easy day trip if you do not want to stay nearby. However, there are camping and RV options at the state park! To enter the park, permits are required from October 1 through April 15 each year. Permits are $35 per week in advance and $50 per week if purchased onsite. Season permits are $150. America the Beautiful National Park pass also counts for this park. Once you are all settled into the park, you're ready to ride! But before you get into your off-highway vehicle (whether it is ATV or a bike, or other), make sure to remember the basics. Wear a protective helmet, pay attention to "closed to vehicle signs," and tall visible red flags are REQUIRED on your vehicle for visibility and safety! There you have it! Tons and tons of ideas on things to do in California. Hope you find this article useful when planning your next getaway! More of California Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles Ultimate San Diego Bucket List 150+ Places to Go in Orange County Places to Visit in Santa Barbara What are your favorite things to do in California? Let me know in the comments section below. Pin “Things to Do in California” for later!, Pigeon Point LighthouseThings to Do in California: Golden State Best Colorful building, trees and flowers in Downtown Santa BarbaraDowntown Santa Barbara: Things to Do, See and Eat

Comments

  1. Jill Chapman says

    I’ve been to Solvang once and I really enjoyed it. I wish I could’ve made time to visit again on my last visit to the area but unfortunately didn’t. And just as a good rating, my mom doesn’t like traveling but she loved her visit to Solvang several years ago and always sings it’s praises. (If you want to see a Bavarianish town in the US, Helen, Georgia is the German version of Solvang – though I enjoyed Solvang more.)

    Reply

  3. Karen says

    This is a seriously beautiful place. We are heading to Denmark en route for Norway in the spring, so seeing the architecture in this village has really piqued my interest.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get all the latest goodness straight to your inbox!