When you’re in search of an enthralling European-style escape proper right here in California, head to Solvang in Santa Barbara County’s Santa Ynez Valley.
This picturesque village, referred to as the “Danish Capital of America,” was not too long ago named No. 7 in USA Right now’s 10Best Readers’ Alternative Awards for Greatest Small Cities within the West for 2026. It beforehand ranked within the No. 1 spot in 2025, persevering with its robust exhibiting amongst prime Western locations.
With a inhabitants of round 6,000, Solvang was based in 1911 by Danish-American settlers who wished to protect their Scandinavian cultural heritage in sunny California.
The identify means “sunny fields” in Danish, and the city delivers on that promise with its storybook vibe — colourful Nordic-style structure, historic windmills, and a placing mix of Outdated World attraction with Golden State wine nation.
Positioned round two hours northwest of Los Angeles off the 101 freeway, it’s a straightforward day journey or weekend getaway.
Stroll by “Little Denmark” for boutique procuring with distinctive European imports, on-trend clothes and native artwork galleries. Meals lovers will benefit from the genuine Danish bakeries serving conventional pastries and sweets, whereas wine fans can discover family-owned vineyards and tasting rooms within the Santa Ynez Valley.
Guests can hire four-wheeled cycles, journey the horse-drawn trolley, or go to Ostrichland to hand-feed ostriches. The city provides one thing for everybody — whether or not you’re a day-tripper from LA, a wine fanatic, a Europhile, or just in search of the enjoyable vibes of a weekend getaway.
Solvang continues to face out as a one-of-a-kind vacation spot that has been charming guests for over a century — well-deserved nationwide recognition for this European-style gem within the coronary heart of Southern California.
Right here is the complete listing of the Greatest Small Cities within the West for 2026 in line with USA Right now’s 10Best Readers’ Alternative Awards:
- 10. Anacortes, Washington
- 9. Friday Harbor, Washington
- 8. Healdsburg, California
- 7. Solvang, California
- 6. Astoria, Oregon
- 5. Breckenridge, Colorado
- 4. Cody, Wyoming
- 3. Grants, New Mexico
- 2. Large Bear Lake, California
- 1. Palisade, Colorado
Obtain The California Publish App, observe us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters
California Publish Information: Fb, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedIn
California Publish Sports activities Fb, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, X
California Publish Opinion
California Publish Newsletters: Join right here!
California Publish App: Obtain right here!
House supply: Join right here!
Web page Six Hollywood: Join right here!
