Solvang Travel and Things to Do Guide

Lovingly called the "Danish Capital of America," Solvang is a charming destination in Santa Ynez Valley wine country that's perfect for business and leisure travel. Perched along California's Central Coast between Los Angeles and San Francisco, about 30 miles outside of Santa Barbara, Solvang is home to dozens of unique venues for indoor and outdoor events with scenic views. After meetings are over, business travelers have their pick of local museums, art galleries, outdoor activities, shopping spots, and restaurants serving a wide range of — not to mention plenty of wine tasting — throughout this welcoming Danish village.

Meeting travelers can reach Solvang via scenic U.S. Highway 101 or State Route 154, or via the nearby Santa Barbara Municipal Airport or Santa Maria Public Airport. Once in Solvang, groups can navigate the area via the Clean Air Express deluxe bus service and enjoy free parking throughout the town. Meeting venues include the downtown Veterans Memorial Hall, a Spanish-mission-style facility with vintage pendant lighting, open rafters, and space for up to 200 guests. The luxurious Hotel Corque, features modern rustic décor, as well as 7,500 square feet of meeting and event space, including a ballroom, brick-paved courtyard, and open-air patio.

Solvang attractions and activities geared toward groups range from a historic mission and championship golf course to an ostrich breeding farm and wine country cycling tours. Feel like being shown around? Groups can enjoy guided tours of the Old Mission Santa Ines, Elverhoj Museum of History & Art, and Wildling Museum of Art & Nature, or they can hop aboard a historic horse-drawn trolley, surrey, Segway, or bicycle to see more Santa Ynez Valley sights. Plenty of entertainment and gaming fun can be had at the nearby Chumash Casino, while Solvang's restaurants — many with group dining and event space — serve up Danish, American, international, and wine country cuisine.