3 Hours in Solvang California

There are a ton of little towns scattered across the US that don’t look like America, like, at all. Sure, they take the US dollar. No – you don’t need your passports to get in. They’re rare, far-and-few between, but never-the-less: delightful. Which is why I’m super excited to finally write about my 3 Hours in Solvang California adventure.

On a road trip, from San Diego to Seattle, my friend and I decided to take a short detour to check off a bucket list item. Honestly, Solvang delivered. #WorthIt. It was the perfect destination to stretch out legs and enjoy.

Phonebooth in Solvang California — Phone booth in Solvang, CA

Solvang Windmill California — Little Dutch Town of Solvang California

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3 Hours in Solvang California

Okay, my friends. SO – you’ve got 3 hours in Solvang California and you’re not sure what to do. Maybe you’re on a road trip. Maybe you’re just swinging in because you’ve got some time to burn. Maybe you drove up for the day for a change the scenery. Whatever the reason, you wanna know what’s good. Well, get excited, I’ve got you covered!

Stretch your legs

The Hans Christian Anderson Museum

A great space to walk around a bit and also learn about Anderson’s life and work. Anderson left for Copenhagen and began publishing his fairytales in 1835. It’s also a bookstore!

The Solvang Windmill

It’s safe to say that The Solvang Windmill is the perfect photo op (see above) and quintessential icon of all of Solvang. It’s plastered over Instagram and TikTok. A bit of a tip: Get there either very very early or around closing. There will be significantly less people in your shot.

The Elverhøj Museum

Officially re-opened from the pandemic, this community operated history and art museum has special exhibits rotating in and out. So, definitely check their site calendar. Their ongoing exhibits includes a vikings exhibit.

Solvang Trolley & Carriage Rides

This is such a cute idea for a quick tour around Solvang. $14 for adults and $9 for the kiddos, not a terrible way to spend a few hours getting a personal tour around this little Danish town.

The Mermaid Fountain

Another classic photo op for Solvang. This mermaid is a bronze replica of the one in Denmark, only half the size!

Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum

A fine collection of US and European vintage motorcycles can be found at this museum. Some of the bikes rotate out every month and others are for sale. Either way, my dad would love this museum.

Copenhagen Sausage Garden Wine — Wine from Copenhagen Sausage Garden

Wine Tasting

You guys know me better. I can’t write a post without mentioning a few amazing wine tasting rooms. Especially because Solvang is full of them! Here are some of them around town:

_{Note: If you’re there for longer than 3 hours, there is a wine tour that takes you to all of the local vineyards in the area!}

Food

Stopping in for a bite to year? Oh gosh, where to start! There are so many fun place to sit back and carb up with a pretzel as big as your face, and have a pint or a nice glass of wine. Alright, here are a few!

Copenhagen Sausage Garden

For huge pretzels to hold up for instagram (haha!) and a great pint or glass of wine. Absolutely get the sausage sampler (3) option. You will not be disappointed in the Italian with goat cheddar or the bratwurst or all beef frank.

Peasants Feast

Amazing patio dining with a huge menu of fan favorites from a Gold Coast Grilled Cheese and a spicy Solvang Hot Chicken Burger, this place won’t let you down.

Solvang Trolley Ice Cream Parlor

The best sweet treat before getting back into the car. This place is so cute and tasty to boot.

Good Seed Coffee

For Organic coffee and vegan/gluten free bakery options!

Olsen Danish Family Village

For a cult/town favorite and the perfect place to get Danish butter cookie for the road.

Hemlet Square Solvang California — Hamlet Square

Relax

Lastly – if you’re looking to get away from the car for a bit, and not do much:

Solvang Park

Swing by the Valley Fresh Market and grab some meats, cheese and drinks for a picnic in Solvang Park! It’s too cute and the perfect place for a stroll.

That’s it, my friends! I hope you found a few things to go on your pitstop for 3 Hours in Solvang California. Can’t wait to hear what you do.