California is one of the places in the United States Of America that embraces
diversity. And one good example of this is a city called Solvang.
It is a city in southern California's Santa Ynez Valley. It's known for
its Danish-style architecture and many wineries. It is also called the
Danish Capital of America because when you are there, you immediately feel
that you in a some Danish city with all the architecture, food, and just
simply the vibe of the place. We have seen a lot of good things online
about Solvang, so we decided to take a weekend trip there.
Immersing To The Danish Architecture
One good thing to do here in Solvang is just walking around the streets and
enjoying the cool weather and Europe vibes. Be amazed of the
architecture of some of the establishments that feels like you have been
transported to a Danish village. It's architecture is a big part of
what gives the town, which Danish immigrants founded in 1911, its unique
charm. Solvang has a unique style with thatched roofs, old-fashioned skills,
and windmills that make it stand out in California.
The Hans Christian Andersen Museum
The Hans Christian Andersen Museum is a small Solvang museum space located
above the local bookshop, The Book Loft. The Book Loft is an independent
bookstore and has been a staple of Solvang since 1970, specializing in local
authors and Danish works. The museum is operated by the Ugly Duckling
Foundation, a non profit organization established to foster public
understanding and enjoyment of Hans Christian Andersen and his work. It
also has a collection of Hans' paper cuttings on display. Often while telling
stories he would be cutting a folded paper as one would cut a paper snowflake,
and as his story went on he continued to cut more so that by the end of the
story, he’d open it up to reveal a charming scene in paper lace.
Exploring & Walking Around Solvang
Walking further more around the village, you can discover more iconic land
marks like Little Mermaid Fountain, Hamlet Square, Windmills, Giant Red Clog &
Round Tower. You can also ride a horse carriage and trolley to discover
the area.
Enjoy the Solvang Christmas Festivities
When we went here, it was on the Christmas Season and the whole town is full
of Christmas spirit. You can really feel the Holidays in air when you
walk around the streets. They have a lot of yuletide activities that you
can participate it. Some are free and some comes with a cost. We
participated at the Christmas Caroling activity wherein you sing Christmas
songs in several stations. Solvang really creates a festive environment
for visitors during the Christmas season.
Solvang Shopping
You can also shop in their many stores and souvenir boutiques in the
town. Solvang is also well known as a shopping district specially during
the holiday season.
Savor The Food In Solvang
Solvang offers a wide variety of restaurants within the town. Step
into Solvang’s restaurant scene with authentic Danish bakeries and
sample a range of international and domestic cuisines, including Danish,
Italian, Mexican, Asian and traditional American favorites. Below are
some of the food that we experienced in Solvang during our visit.
Watch this YouTube Video of our experience in Solvang CA U.S.A.
Solvang CA U.S.A.
Here are some travel tips when you are visiting Solvang California:
- Solvang is a small city in the Santa Barbara County in Central California. You can probably explore the area within the day so spending overnight there is probably enough.
- It is best to visit Solvang during the Christmas Season. The city is bustling during that time. You can join the multiple activities and programs they have in that season.
- I suggest to do at least an overnight to the many quaint hotels there. That way you need not to worry about parking and you can have a rest after walking around the city.
- There's a lot of restaurants in Solvang that you can choose from. But, they are well known for their Danish bakeries so make sure you try it. Also try out the Aebleskiver in Solvang Restaurant as it is one of the food unique to Solvang. As all restaurants in California, it is mandatory to give a "TIP" in bars and restaurants. The tip should not be less than 10% of your bill.
- Weather in Solvang is quite cold during the winter months so it is best to layer up.
- Expect a lot of tourist in Solvang during the holiday season. So getting that perfect Instagram shots will be challenging.
- If you are going to shop in Solvang, bring your own shopping bag. Most shopping establishments charge $0.10 per plastic bag as part of a new law in California state.
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