Solvang

You don’t have to fly to Europe to experience a European vacation. In Solvang, Europe will come to you in the form of a quaint, charming little village nestled in a small California valley. Denmark is its country of origin. The streets are crowded with bakeries, wineries, chocolate shops and shoe cobblers; the buildings are designed with the red bricks and sloped ceilings of real Danish architecture. An old-fashioned windmill slowly turns on top of the main square. If you’re a fan of Hans Christian Anderson, his museum is here. If you’ve always wanted to try ableskiver pastries or medisterkorv sausage, there are designated “Danish Days” where residents come together to celebrate the music, art, food, fashion and dances of their homeland. Solvang is one of the best California attractions for lovers of the quirky and unique. You’ll be transported right back to an 18th-century European village without even having to leave the west coast!