Solvang, California
In 2011 the city turned 100 years old. Many celebrations throughout the centennial were added to a staple of events that attract tourists from around the region and U.S. Taste of Solvang in the Spring and Yulefest at Christmas are two of the most popular.
Weekends the streets going into the city from I-101 are often busy with lines of traffic from the freeway. Several noteworthy attractions are Solvang's windmills, its Danish themed rooftops and architecture, and Mission Santa Ines located next to downtown. Be sure to stop during your drive into town and see one of our favorites, Ostrichland USA.
The historic mission and a Danish museum in the city provide points of interest during a visit, but the food is really one of the top attractions. The Danish treat, Aebleskivers, round donuts cooked in hot oil till the crust is slightly crisp are drizzled with raspberry flavor and sprinkled with powdered sugar, making them look like little snowballs. The city is one of the few places you may be able to find a hot iron utensil that can be used for cooking aebleskivers.
Solvang is also home to at least one smorgasbord and the famed Swedish meatballs, and redkraut (sweet, red cabbage).
Ice cream shops, donuts, cookies, snacks, and our favorite stop before heading out of town, Solvang Bakery, all are part of what makes Solvang so cheery.
You might see a parade heading down the street, watch a horse-drawn cart roll by, or watch tourists lick ice cream cones in delight.
Whether heading for Solvang to stay overnight, or just dropping by, be sure to stop in the park and say hi to the bust of Hans Christian Andersen.
At the turn of the 20th century, three Danish-Americans had a vision--to find a place in California where land was fertile and their heritage could prosper. In 1911, that vision became reality with the founding of Solvang (sunny field in Danish), a 9000+ acre enclave in Santa Ynez Valley just 125 miles north of Los Angeles. Solvang, known as the "Danish Capital of America" and recognized as a "Preserve America" city welcomes visitors with hospitality.
