The Danish Capital of America—Solvang, CA
Would you like to go riding in the sunny fields of Denmark? If shipping your motorcycle to Scandinavia isn’t an option, the next best thing you can do is motor to Solvang, CA.
This city in the Santa Ynez Valley is popularly dubbed the Danish Capital of America. Although its surroundings admittedly look nothing like the Danish archipelago, Solvang has a strong and proud Danish heritage.
The town began as a Spanish settlement built around Mission Santa Inés. It, however, was abandoned in the aftermath of California transferring under U.S. control following the Mexican-American War.
In the late 19th century, Danish immigrants began arriving in the area and established the town. It was officially founded in 1911 and named Solvang, or “sunny field” in Danish.
Initially, Solvang looked like any other Californian frontier settlement. Then, in 1928, the Bethania Lutheran Church was built to resemble a 14th-century Danish country church, giving a taste of things to come.
Following World War II, Solvang went full Danish to bring tourist money into the area. Today, virtually every building in town has been converted to the Danish medieval bindingsverk style.
Among Solvang’s most quintessentially Danish sights are its six windmills, built to resemble those that have ground grain in rural Denmark for centuries. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum sheds light on the life of the beloved Danish storyteller, famous for The Little Mermaid and The Emperor’s New Clothes.
Yet, if you visit Solvang only once, you should make sure your trip coincides with the Danish Days. This cultural festival celebrates Solvang’s heritage through Danish music, food, handicrafts, traditional costumes, and more.
For an additional dose of culture, catch a play at the Solvang Festival Theater. This 700-seat outdoor theater was built in 1974 after the runaway success of a Hamlet production in the town park. The Elverhøj Museum of History and Art also displays artifacts from local history.
Solvang is more than just Danish, though. The old Santa Inés Mission from the town’s Spanish days still stands. Meanwhile, the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum showcases the cultural customs of the area’s native Chumash people.
Of special interest to all motorcyclists is the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum. This museum, founded in 2000, displays the private collection of motocross and road racer Virgil Elings. The extensive collection covers motorcycle history from 1910 to the present day, with particular highlights including some truly bizarre racing machines.
And if bizarre is what you’re after, drop by Ostrichland USA just outside Solvang. Ostriches roam freely on this ranch, accepting treats from visitors. You can also buy an ostrich egg to take home with you (if you have refrigerated saddlebags).
Solvang also attracts other types of riders. The city is a popular bicycling destination, with the surrounding varied terrain making for memorable outings.
Now, in the name of complete honesty, I should point out that Solvang represents a tourist-focused, idealized take on rural Denmark. Visiting the real country is an entirely different experience—which isn’t a bad thing at all.
Solvang is a wonderful Andersen-esque fairytale take on Denmark where hygge abounds. And if you don’t know what that is, why don’t you hop in the saddle and head to Solvang to find out?
Facts & Info
Nearby Attractions
- Danish-style buildings
- Hans Christian Andersen Museum
- Solvang Motorcycle Museum
- Danish Days Festival
- Santa Inés Mission
Nearby Roads
The prime motorcycling road right by Solvang is SR 1, or the Pacific Coast Highway. Heading north, it takes you to Big Sur, arguably the most beautiful section of the road. Note that although the Pacific Coast Highway is now officially fully open, it is susceptible to closures due to landslides, so check the road status with Caltrans before you ride.
Another famous northbound road near Solvang is US 101. This highway will take you on a seaside ride that skirts several gorgeous national and state forests and parks. Pay attention to how far you’re going, or you might find that the road has swept you all the way to Washington.
For a more local ride, consider riding around Los Padres National Forest along SR 154, 166, and 33. This route provides thrilling altitude changes and tight mountain curves, interspersed with relaxed, open sections.
Last but not least, should you feel the Mother Road calling, Santa Monica isn’t far away.
Food & Dining
To go along with the city’s Danish theme, Solvang has multiple restaurants serving traditional Danish food. The Solvang Restaurant serves Danish-style meatballs, open-faced sandwiches, and creamed herring, alongside American classics. Find it at 1672 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA.
The Copenhagen Sausage Garden, meanwhile, offers exactly what it says on the label, alongside beer for a post-ride meal. The legendary rød pølse is one of Denmark’s national prides. If you’ve never had a Danish hot dog, I wholeheartedly recommend trying it. Find it at 1660 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA.
For more American eats, drop by the Whiskey ‘N Rye Smokehouse. Once again, the name of the restaurant tells you what its game is—great barbecue. Find it at 442 Atterdag Rd, Solvang, CA.
Best Time to Travel
Solvang is a year-round motorcycling destination, but I recommend visiting in the fall. The weather will be cooler, which makes for more pleasant motorcycling. More importantly, though, you can time your visit so you can attend the Danish Days festival.
Spring is also a good time to come, with similarly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Summers can be hot unless you escape to the mountains. Winters may be rideable as well, but be prepared for snow at higher altitudes.