Family Fun
The northern European fairytale feel and friendly folks of the village of Solvang seems to put everyone in the family at ease. Where else can you find a giant red clog to sit in (and be photographed)? (Answer-at the corner of Copenhagen Drive and First Street).
One of the most energetic ways for the family to explore Solvang is via bicycles and four-wheeled surrey cycles. Bring wheels of your own or easy-to-ride rentals offer a pedal-powered way to see the sights (Wheel Fun, 688-0091).
The Solvang Trolley (also known as the Honen) is a historic wooden streetcar pulled by a pair of magnificent draft horses providing 25-minute guided tours around the village (794-8958).
Year-round outdoor family fun and picnics are popular in Solvang Park at the corner of Mission Drive and First Street (center of action for September's Danish Days, Julefest in December and Free Friday Night Movies in summer).
Hans Christian Andersen Park on Atterdag Road is a pleasant retreat with picnic areas, public tennis, a playground and the skate park for "boarders."
Kids love the whimsical playground and ball field at Sunny Fields Park on Alamo Pintado Road. For a schedule of area recreational events, call 688-PLAY. And let's not forget the plethora of candy shops and toy stores all within a two-block radius downtown!
Fascinating Fauna is Fun for Kids of All Ages!
Ostrich Land is a 33-acre breeding farm to see/feed more than 100 ostriches and emus up close (610 E. Highway 246).
Flag Is Up Farms is the home of Monty Roberts, the "Man Who Listens to Horses" where visitors are freely welcome to see the equine facilities and trainers in action.
Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch is a fascinating breeding facility for 34-inch and under horses that welcomes visitors daily for free viewing from 10:00 am-3:00 pm.
Twenty minutes away from downtown Solvang, Cachuma Lake Recreation Area offers year-round guided wildlife cruises on a pontoon boat (ages 5 and over),a Junior Ranger program, Nature Center, hiking, picnicking, boating, fishing, snack bar, plus RV hook-ups, tent and yurt camping, too.
