The picturesque Santa Ynez Valley encompasses six communities clustered closely together like wine grapes. From the charming, tiny gem of rural Ballard, the bustling gateway city of Buellton, the vintage western town of Los Alamos, the arts-influenced wine-infused town of Los Olivos and the turn-of-the-20th-century township of Santa Ynez, to the northern European atmosphere of the city of Solvang founded by Danish-Americans in 1911, it’s relaxing and refreshing to meander and experience them all. Just two hours up the coast from Los Angeles, it feels like a world away with endless possibilities... VIEW MORE
In the vintage township of Santa Ynez (population 4,418), it’s sometimes hard to tell if it’s 2014 or 1884 with its period-style false-front building facades housing shops, saloons, feed stores and random horses hitched to posts. However, this rather sophisticated cowboy town also boasts plenty of conveniences for modern-day trail riders. A variety of restaurants serve up delicious options from casual burgers, pancakes, and waffles (beloved by locals), to steaks, seafood, regional Italian fare, Latin fusion and locavore cuisine. Modern shops and galleries line streets with horse-shoe embedded crosswalks. Don’t miss the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society Museum and Parks-Janeway Carriage House for a fascinating does of Old West heritage and myriad events year-round such as the Vaquero Show & Sale in November. The Chumash Casino Resort is adjacent to the township with 24/7 gaming, live entertainment, dining and a luxurious hotel. Old Santa Ynez Day every June is just one fun time to visit, when the town celebrates with a street fair, parade and country-western entertainment. Cyclists gravitate to Santa Ynez as well for a world-class training center, tours or just the chance to ride a bike along serene country roads – there’s plenty to see and do in the town that gave the Valley its name... VIEW MORE
Founded in 1911, the community of Solvang holds Danish-American charm and tradition, while thriving year-round as a destination loved by families, couples and people of all ages. Only two hours up the coast from Los Angeles, Solvang has carried on the Danish traditions of language, folk dancing, music and cuisine. The streets are flanked with Danish farm-style architecture and windmills of all sizes catch the first and last light throughout the village. The Danish Days annual festival emerged in 1936 and continues to commemorate Solvang’s heritage every September. Festivals and celebrations are traditional parts of Solvang’s charm – including Julefest (Yule-fest) each December. Be drawn into Scandinavian culture strolling Solvang’s flower-lined streets or stepping into five authentic bakeries and more than 30 restaurants and cafes – featuring not only Danish cuisine but also wine-country, international and traditional American favorites. Dozens of wine and beer tasting rooms, wine bars and gourmet food shops tempt palates with the bounty of nearby vineyards and farms... VIEW MORE
California history melds with modern-day wine tasting rooms, art galleries and upscale shops in this picture-perfect country town in the northeast part of the valley (population 1,132). Centered by an iconic flagpole, Victorian homes and businesses cluster nearby around the community hub at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Alamo Pintado Avenue. Vineyards, lavender farms, orchards, ranches and horse trails surround Los Olivos. This is a charming place to visit for a one-stop wine country experience. It’s a laid-back place where locals sit on wooden porches and chat with friends and visitors; and most people wear jeans, cowboy boots and casual attire. The town dates back to the 1860s, when the stagecoach route began to pass through. County Historical Landmark Mattei’s Tavern was built to house and feed those passengers and still stands today. Many historic structures hold distinctly modern enterprises where you’ll discover retail treasures or can sip local vintages at a tasting room (choose among more than 30 within a 5-block area). The annual Jazz & Olive Festival every June attracts name performers and creative olive-centric cuisine from local chefs. Dine at a casual café or gourmet restaurant. Discover special annual events such as the Day in the Country (October) and Olde Fashioned Christmas... VIEW MORE
Buellton sits in the shadow of the Santa Rita Hills, an American Viticultural Area known for its world class grapes. Abundant sunshine year round and cool nights shrouded in coastal fog create the perfect atmosphere for delicate pinot noir. You’ll quickly notice how friendly and accommodating Buellton is for everyone, including the kids and dogs. A respite from the big city lights, Buellton is a perfect vacation destination... VIEW MORE
Buellton sits in the shadow of the Santa Rita Hills, an American Viticultural Area known for its world class grapes. Abundant sunshine year round and cool nights shrouded in coastal fog create the perfect atmosphere for delicate pinot noir. You’ll quickly notice how friendly and accommodating Buellton is for everyone, including the kids and dogs. A respite from the big city lights, Buellton is a perfect vacation destination... VIEW MORE
Surrounded by ranches, farms and vineyards at the northern “entry” to the Santa Ynez Valley, Los Alamos (population 1,890) is located at the junction of US Highway 101 and State Route 135 (the main thoroughfare known as Bell Street) It’s only seven blocks long yet reflects as much Old West heritage as any small town on California’s Central Coast. Founded in 1876, two ranchers each donated part of their land to create the town site. Named Los Alamos (Spanish for “the cottonwoods” that still grace the area) it looks and feels vintage yet with a burgeoning food, wine, arts & antiques scene. One-of-a-kind lodging includes the historic 1880 Union Hotel, a Victorian-style bed & breakfast with six incredible theme suites, an inn with a view and a classic motor court. Buildings old and new house art galleries, antique shops, food and wine tasting rooms and a surprising variety of restaurants for every type of diner from locavore to carnivore. The Los Alamos Third Saturday Stroll every month offers themed special events. During the last weekend of September, Los Alamos Old Days honors the town’s western heritage with a celebration including arts & crafts fair, BBQ, car show, dance and parade – an excellent time to wrangle a visit with free fun for the whole family... VIEW MORE
This phrase is perfect for Ballard, California. With a population of only 467, Ballard is the smallest of the region’s towns. However, it also holds some of the Valley’s most treasured gems. A genuine “Little Red Schoolhouse” has been educating young Ballard residents since 1883. The bell still rings to summon students, and it is one of the top-performing schools in Santa Barbara County. Ballard is also home to The Ballard Inn & Restaurant, one of the most romantic B&Bs in the region, where you can enjoy delectable wine-country fusion meals. With an abundance of historic homes, churches, miniature donkeys and more, this town is certainly well worth the visit. Experience the serenity and charm of a well-preserved country town and visit Ballard, California today!... VIEW MORE