Fun Itinerary for: Andy & Jody Gristwood
Fall Break in Solvang, CA
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Itinerary made / last updated: 2025-10-15
Day 1
MORNING:
- Road trip it to Solvang, CA
- Grab some grub at Steaks 'n Cakes.
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AFTERNOON:
- Scenic Stop Along the Pacific Coast Highway
- Arrive in Solvang, CA
- Check into the Royal Copenhagen Inn
- Stop at Cafe Dolce
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EVENING:
- Exploration
- Trolley Tour
- Pet-Friendly Dining
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NIGHT:
- Part at night
- Rest & Reset
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DAY 1 Details
MORNING:
Rise and shine!
Hit the road by 6 AM for a 7-hour road trip to a sun-soaked slice of Danish culture in Solvang, CA!
Fill the Tank & the Tummy!
Stop in at Steaks 'n Cakes in Blythe, CA around 8am for some delicious breakfast. This little gem has been a staple in Blythe for more than 20 years and is definitely a local favorite.
After a full tummy, and maybe a tank top off, head back out on the open road. Just 5 hours to go!
Notes:
* Steaks 'n Cakes does not have a website. Their address is 1871 E Hobsonway, Blythe, CA 92225.
Helpful Links:
• Breakfast Menu Pics
Hit the road by 6 AM for a 7-hour road trip to a sun-soaked slice of Danish culture in Solvang, CA!
Fill the Tank & the Tummy!
Stop in at Steaks 'n Cakes in Blythe, CA around 8am for some delicious breakfast. This little gem has been a staple in Blythe for more than 20 years and is definitely a local favorite.
After a full tummy, and maybe a tank top off, head back out on the open road. Just 5 hours to go!
Notes:
* Steaks 'n Cakes does not have a website. Their address is 1871 E Hobsonway, Blythe, CA 92225.
Helpful Links:
• Breakfast Menu Pics
AFTERNOON:
Wow, What a View!
Stopping for a picture along the Pacific Coast Highway is a must! Pick a good spot (but then again, how could you not?!) After a selfie or two, head back out on the highway to complete your journey.
Welcome to Solvang, CA!
This amazing place is located in southern California's Santa Ynez Valley, but you can easily trick yourself into believing you've somehow teleported to Denmark!
Upon your arrival, check into the Royal Copenhagen Inn. Unpack and get ready for a short walk (5ish mins) to Cafe Dolce where you can get a yummy drink, a delicious sandwich, a sugary treat, or all three!
After your calorie-filled stop, enjoy some free time just strolling around and getting a feel for all that is Solvang!
Note
• Cafe Dolce only has a website for to go ordering. However, you can find pictures of the menu here: Menu Pics It is also next to Panino, which may offer more enticing lunch fare.
Helpful Links
• Royal Copenhagen Inn
• Cafe Dolce To Go
Addresses
Royal Copenhagen Inn: 1579 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA 93463
Cafe Dolce: 475 1st St Unit # 2& unit #3, Solvang, CA 93463
Stopping for a picture along the Pacific Coast Highway is a must! Pick a good spot (but then again, how could you not?!) After a selfie or two, head back out on the highway to complete your journey.
Welcome to Solvang, CA!
This amazing place is located in southern California's Santa Ynez Valley, but you can easily trick yourself into believing you've somehow teleported to Denmark!
Upon your arrival, check into the Royal Copenhagen Inn. Unpack and get ready for a short walk (5ish mins) to Cafe Dolce where you can get a yummy drink, a delicious sandwich, a sugary treat, or all three!
After your calorie-filled stop, enjoy some free time just strolling around and getting a feel for all that is Solvang!
Note
• Cafe Dolce only has a website for to go ordering. However, you can find pictures of the menu here: Menu Pics It is also next to Panino, which may offer more enticing lunch fare.
Helpful Links
• Royal Copenhagen Inn
• Cafe Dolce To Go
Addresses
EVENING:
Get Acquainted
After your afternoon stroll, head over to the trolley stop for your 5:00 trolley tour (25 mins). You'll rediscover the architecture and attractions of the town on a replica of an 1800’s Danish streetcar while a tour guide tells you the history of Solvang. This is a way great way to see the town so that you can get an idea of places you would like to visit during your trip.
After your trolley tour, head back to the hotel to pick up Koa before going to Chomp for dinner. They have a beautiful, pet friendly patio.
Notes
• Solvang Trolley is located at 1618 Copenhagen Dr, which is short walk. You must check in with an attendant and exchange your online reservation prior to boarding. Check in AT THE BLUE WINDMILL right across the street from the station. You cannot board until you have a physical ticket!
• Chomp is located at 1693 Mission Dr, which is also a short walk.
Helpful Links
• Solvang Trolley
• Chomp
After your afternoon stroll, head over to the trolley stop for your 5:00 trolley tour (25 mins). You'll rediscover the architecture and attractions of the town on a replica of an 1800’s Danish streetcar while a tour guide tells you the history of Solvang. This is a way great way to see the town so that you can get an idea of places you would like to visit during your trip.
After your trolley tour, head back to the hotel to pick up Koa before going to Chomp for dinner. They have a beautiful, pet friendly patio.
Notes
• Solvang Trolley is located at 1618 Copenhagen Dr, which is short walk. You must check in with an attendant and exchange your online reservation prior to boarding. Check in AT THE BLUE WINDMILL right across the street from the station. You cannot board until you have a physical ticket!
• Chomp is located at 1693 Mission Dr, which is also a short walk.
Helpful Links
• Solvang Trolley
• Chomp
NIGHT:
Call it a night!
After dinner, walk over to the Solvang Park and take a nightly stroll. Continue walking off dinner calories but checking out downtown at night. Enjoy Solvang as it's lit up while your make your way back to the inn for some R & R. It's time to settle in for the night.
After dinner, walk over to the Solvang Park and take a nightly stroll. Continue walking off dinner calories but checking out downtown at night. Enjoy Solvang as it's lit up while your make your way back to the inn for some R & R. It's time to settle in for the night.
Day 2
MORNING:
- Rise and Shine
- Belgian Breakfast
- Hike & Fly
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AFTERNOON:
- Head back into Solvang
- Fuel Up
- Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum
- Baby Boy Rendezvous
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EVENING:
- Free-Time Exploration
- Solvang Supper
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NIGHT:
- Solvang Nightlife
- Decisions, Decisions
DAY 2 Details
MORNING:
Let the adventure begin!
Get ready for an amazing morning! Head to breakfast at the Belgian Cafe. Yummo! They have an outdoor patio, so Koa can come too!
After breakfast, walk back to the hotel (making sure Koa goes potty) and drop Koa off for some rest by himself.
Hop in the car and head to Highline Adventures for a little 10am Hike and Fly experience (6-minute drive). This is booked as a 3-hour adventure with 2 miles of hiking, so make sure you wear appropriate clothing.
After your hike and exhilarating flight down 3 dual zipline, it's time to head back to the Inn and meet up with Bubba.
Note
• It is recommended to wear pants (or long shorts) and hiking shoes or sneakers. Bring a change of clothes and/shoes so that you can head back into Solvang ready to stop somewhere for lunch.
Addresses
• Belgian Cafe: 1671 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang
• Highline Adventures: 700 E Hwy 246, Buellton, CA 93427
Helpful Links
• Belgian Cafe Menu
• Highline Adventures
Get ready for an amazing morning! Head to breakfast at the Belgian Cafe. Yummo! They have an outdoor patio, so Koa can come too!
After breakfast, walk back to the hotel (making sure Koa goes potty) and drop Koa off for some rest by himself.
Hop in the car and head to Highline Adventures for a little 10am Hike and Fly experience (6-minute drive). This is booked as a 3-hour adventure with 2 miles of hiking, so make sure you wear appropriate clothing.
After your hike and exhilarating flight down 3 dual zipline, it's time to head back to the Inn and meet up with Bubba.
Note
• It is recommended to wear pants (or long shorts) and hiking shoes or sneakers. Bring a change of clothes and/shoes so that you can head back into Solvang ready to stop somewhere for lunch.
Addresses
• Belgian Cafe: 1671 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang
• Highline Adventures: 700 E Hwy 246, Buellton, CA 93427
Helpful Links
• Belgian Cafe Menu
• Highline Adventures
AFTERNOON:
Explore Some More
Around 1:00 PM, head back into the heart of Solvang to snag a quick and delicious lunch at one of the many charming local eateries. Fuel up, because your next stop is a race against the clock!
Your must-see afternoon destination is the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum (320 Alisal Road). Since they're only open on weekends and close promptly at 4:00 PM, this is your exclusive chance to drool over their incredible collection of rare and classic motorcycles—true works of engine art! Plan to arrive no later than 3:00 PM to ensure you have enough time to take it all in.
Once your museum visit wraps up, it’s time for the most important part of the day! Head back to the Inn for a special rendezvous. Our baby boy (Koa) will be patiently waiting for a little quality time before he joins in on your exciting evening adventures!
Note
• The museum costs $10pp
Helpful Link
• Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum
Around 1:00 PM, head back into the heart of Solvang to snag a quick and delicious lunch at one of the many charming local eateries. Fuel up, because your next stop is a race against the clock!
Your must-see afternoon destination is the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum (320 Alisal Road). Since they're only open on weekends and close promptly at 4:00 PM, this is your exclusive chance to drool over their incredible collection of rare and classic motorcycles—true works of engine art! Plan to arrive no later than 3:00 PM to ensure you have enough time to take it all in.
Once your museum visit wraps up, it’s time for the most important part of the day! Head back to the Inn for a special rendezvous. Our baby boy (Koa) will be patiently waiting for a little quality time before he joins in on your exciting evening adventures!
Note
• The museum costs $10pp
Helpful Link
• Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum
EVENING:
At Your Whim
You've conquered the morning and triumphed over the afternoon, and now? Solvang is your oyster!
The sun is setting, the air is buzzing, and the rest of the evening is completely unscripted and yours to explore. Toss out the schedule and let your inner explorer take the reins.
Your Solvang Evening Quest Awaits
Are you feeling:
- Wanderlusty? Go ahead and get lost (in a good way!) among the twinkling streets.
- Ready for Retail Reconnaissance? It's the perfect time to discover those hidden gems and indulge in a little Solvang-style retail therapy.
- Hungry? Don't forget the most important mission: securing a seriously satisfying and delectable dinner! Solvang's restaurants are calling your name.
Seriously, let your curiosity be your guide—you never know what charming, delightful surprise is waiting just around the next corner. Go on, wander! What delicious or delightful thing will you stumble upon first?
You've conquered the morning and triumphed over the afternoon, and now? Solvang is your oyster!
The sun is setting, the air is buzzing, and the rest of the evening is completely unscripted and yours to explore. Toss out the schedule and let your inner explorer take the reins.
Your Solvang Evening Quest Awaits
Are you feeling:
- Wanderlusty? Go ahead and get lost (in a good way!) among the twinkling streets.
- Ready for Retail Reconnaissance? It's the perfect time to discover those hidden gems and indulge in a little Solvang-style retail therapy.
- Hungry? Don't forget the most important mission: securing a seriously satisfying and delectable dinner! Solvang's restaurants are calling your name.
Seriously, let your curiosity be your guide—you never know what charming, delightful surprise is waiting just around the next corner. Go on, wander! What delicious or delightful thing will you stumble upon first?
NIGHT:
It's Time to Make a Decision
The streets of Solvang are calling! Trade your comfy shoes for your dancing ones (or just keep the comfy ones on, no judgment!), because it's time to become a Nightlife Navigator. Head out and see what kind of vibrant, charming Danish fun unfolds after dark. Will you discover a cozy wine bar tucked away on a side street? Perhaps a sweet spot for a final aebleskiver dessert? The evening is young, and the atmosphere is electric. Go forth and enjoy the magic hour!
OR... forget the crowds and the fuss! Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to become an elite Cozy Cuddle Commando. The inn is calling you back to a state of pure relaxation. Slip into something comfy, grab Koa, and settle in for some serious shut-eye and snuggle time. There's no better happy hour than one spent spooning with bubba. Sweet dreams and happy cuddles await!
The streets of Solvang are calling! Trade your comfy shoes for your dancing ones (or just keep the comfy ones on, no judgment!), because it's time to become a Nightlife Navigator. Head out and see what kind of vibrant, charming Danish fun unfolds after dark. Will you discover a cozy wine bar tucked away on a side street? Perhaps a sweet spot for a final aebleskiver dessert? The evening is young, and the atmosphere is electric. Go forth and enjoy the magic hour!
OR... forget the crowds and the fuss! Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to become an elite Cozy Cuddle Commando. The inn is calling you back to a state of pure relaxation. Slip into something comfy, grab Koa, and settle in for some serious shut-eye and snuggle time. There's no better happy hour than one spent spooning with bubba. Sweet dreams and happy cuddles await!
Day 3
MORNING:
- Breakfast/Morning Fuel
- Nojoqui Falls Park Trail
- Gaviota State Park
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AFTERNOON:
- Solvang Oil Press
- Picnic in the park
- Wine Tasting
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EVENING:
- Chumash Casino Resort
- The Sports Bar
- Bingo
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NIGHT:
- Float Your Boat
DAY 3 Details
MORNING:
Danish Delights & Nature Trails
First order of business: a fantastic breakfast at Paula's Pancake House! Snag a table on their lovely pet-friendly patio so our baby boy can join you for the feast. Fuel up with their famous Danish pancakes—it’s the perfect start to the day.
Afterward, it's time to work off those delicious calories with a bit of scenic hiking. Head over to Nojoqui Falls Park for a short, easy walk to the beautiful Nojoqui Falls. It’s a great chance to stretch our legs and snap some stunning pictures of the cascading water!
If were still feeling energetic and craving a coastal view, we can make the quick drive down to Gaviota State Park. Take a refreshing walk or short hike to get some extra exercise while enjoying the ocean air and scenery.
Once we’ve had our fill of nature and fresh air, we can turn your focus back to town, arriving in Solvang for an afternoon dedicated to "taste bud titillation"—in other words, some serious afternoon treats!
First order of business: a fantastic breakfast at Paula's Pancake House! Snag a table on their lovely pet-friendly patio so our baby boy can join you for the feast. Fuel up with their famous Danish pancakes—it’s the perfect start to the day.
Afterward, it's time to work off those delicious calories with a bit of scenic hiking. Head over to Nojoqui Falls Park for a short, easy walk to the beautiful Nojoqui Falls. It’s a great chance to stretch our legs and snap some stunning pictures of the cascading water!
If were still feeling energetic and craving a coastal view, we can make the quick drive down to Gaviota State Park. Take a refreshing walk or short hike to get some extra exercise while enjoying the ocean air and scenery.
Once we’ve had our fill of nature and fresh air, we can turn your focus back to town, arriving in Solvang for an afternoon dedicated to "taste bud titillation"—in other words, some serious afternoon treats!
AFTERNOON:
Take it In
Let's kick off our Solvang afternoon with a quick stop at the Solvang Olive Press for a refreshing olive oil tasting.
Next, we'll head over to the Solvang Market to curate our perfect picnic spread. Once we've secured our gourmet provisions, we'll swing by the Inn to grab Koa and a blanket before settling in for a relaxing afternoon picnic at the beautiful Hans Christian Andersen Park.
To cap off a wonderful afternoon, we'll transition from park relaxation to a bit of local flavor by visiting one of the many dog-friendly wineries for a well-deserved tasting!
Notes
• There are a cluster of wineries near each other near Atterdag Rd and Fir Ave (Alma Rosa, McClain, Casa Cassara, Dascomb, etc.).
• Solvang Market is located at 475 5th St.
• Hans Christian Andersen Park is located at 633 Chalk Hill Rd.
Helpful Links
• Solvang Oil Press
• Dog-Friendly Solvang
Let's kick off our Solvang afternoon with a quick stop at the Solvang Olive Press for a refreshing olive oil tasting.
Next, we'll head over to the Solvang Market to curate our perfect picnic spread. Once we've secured our gourmet provisions, we'll swing by the Inn to grab Koa and a blanket before settling in for a relaxing afternoon picnic at the beautiful Hans Christian Andersen Park.
To cap off a wonderful afternoon, we'll transition from park relaxation to a bit of local flavor by visiting one of the many dog-friendly wineries for a well-deserved tasting!
Notes
• There are a cluster of wineries near each other near Atterdag Rd and Fir Ave (Alma Rosa, McClain, Casa Cassara, Dascomb, etc.).
• Solvang Market is located at 475 5th St.
• Hans Christian Andersen Park is located at 633 Chalk Hill Rd.
Helpful Links
• Solvang Oil Press
• Dog-Friendly Solvang
EVENING:
Your Evening at Chumash Casino Resort
Let's get this exciting evening started! We'll plan to depart for the Chumash Casino Resort around 4:00 PM.
Our first stop is dinner at The Sports Bar, the perfect place to start your night. Drawing inspiration from the rich flavors of the Santa Ynez Valley, this unique venue isn't just one eatery—it houses five distinct dining concepts. With a variety of delicious options, there's truly something to satisfy almost any craving. While you enjoy the great food, you'll also have the ability to catch practically every sporting event imaginable on their screens.
Once dinner is wrapped up, we'll head over to the Casino's Bingo Hall for a game! Bingo starts promptly at 6:00 PM, so we'll want to get settled in before then. Best of luck on your numbers!
Should you need a boost of energy while playing, you'll be happy to know that the casino also houses Grains & Ground, which is open 24 hours for a pick-me-up any time.
Notes
• Chumash is an approximate 7-minute drive from the Copenhagen Inn (3400 CA-246).
• The cost of bingo is $35/$55 (depends on what payout you choose).
Helpful Links
• Chumash Casino Resort
• bingo schedule
Let's get this exciting evening started! We'll plan to depart for the Chumash Casino Resort around 4:00 PM.
Our first stop is dinner at The Sports Bar, the perfect place to start your night. Drawing inspiration from the rich flavors of the Santa Ynez Valley, this unique venue isn't just one eatery—it houses five distinct dining concepts. With a variety of delicious options, there's truly something to satisfy almost any craving. While you enjoy the great food, you'll also have the ability to catch practically every sporting event imaginable on their screens.
Once dinner is wrapped up, we'll head over to the Casino's Bingo Hall for a game! Bingo starts promptly at 6:00 PM, so we'll want to get settled in before then. Best of luck on your numbers!
Should you need a boost of energy while playing, you'll be happy to know that the casino also houses Grains & Ground, which is open 24 hours for a pick-me-up any time.
Notes
• Chumash is an approximate 7-minute drive from the Copenhagen Inn (3400 CA-246).
• The cost of bingo is $35/$55 (depends on what payout you choose).
Helpful Links
• Chumash Casino Resort
• bingo schedule
NIGHT:
Do whatever you wish. Whether you choose to go back to the Inn and get some shut eye before heading out to Thousand Oaks tomorrow or hit the town for a night stroll and/or visiting some of the local nightlife establishments, it's totally up to whatever floats your boat.
