10 things to do in Santa Ynez Valley that don't involve wine
Tucked between the Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains in Santa Barbara County, the Santa Ynez Valley is often synonymous with wine, thanks to nearly 300 wineries and tasting rooms (and a little movie called "Sideways"). But there's far more to the region than pinot noir and chardonnay.
Just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles (or 45 minutes from Santa Barbara), this sun-drenched stretch of rolling hills, horse ranches, cowboy towns, and one Danish village is full of charm, wide-open skies, and plenty of things to do that don't involve vino. If you're like me, you might need a break from the tasting rooms; if you're like my friends, you have kids in tow who need to be entertained. It's good to have some balance.
Here are 10 ways to spend the day around the Santa Ynez Valley without wine, including family-friendly activities, restaurants, and museums in Solvang, Los Olivos, Buellton, and surrounding areas. Plus, we offer some hotel recommendations, which you'll need, whether you're drinking wine or not.
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Windmills, Danish pastries, and half-timbered architecture give Solvang its fairy-tale vibe. Wander Mission Drive through the center of town for charming boutiques, clog shops, and old-world bakeries (my favorite for Danish is Mortensen's Bakery). Duck into one of the museums — from the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to the Solvang Motorcycle Museum — or grab an abelskiver before grabbing a photo beneath the windmill in the center of town. Go full cowboy in Santa Ynez
The tiny town of Santa Ynez feels like a sepia-toned postcard. Think frontier-style storefronts, dusty wooden boardwalks, and hitching posts with actual horses. But the vibe is elevated with art galleries, coffee bars, and excellent restaurants.
At KJ Murphy's Custom Hatter & Mercantile, get a custom-made hat that's shaped to fit your head and styled just for you. Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum to explore the Old West and the area's rich ranching history. Every June, Old Santa Ynez Days features parties, parades, and a rodeo. Learn about the native people and lands
This museum and cultural center preserves the rich history and vibrant culture of the Chumash people – Photo courtesy of Mimi Fuenzalida / Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center
At the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center, go back in time before the ranchers arrived. The museum and cultural center honors the 8,000‑year legacy of the Chumash people. Designed to echo traditional tule 'ap, the LEED-certified building weaves immersive galleries, native gardens, and community‑inspired storytelling into a soulful, thought‑provoking visit. Hit the spa
Pampering is part of the valley pace. Find massage services, facials, and relaxing vibes at the Lavender Barn at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern in Los Olivos. The spa at Chumash Casino Resort offers luxe treatments and private cabanas, while small boutique hotels like The Genevieve have more intimate experiences. Think eucalyptus steam, lavender oils, and vineyard views — without the vino.
OstrichLand USA is a quirky, fun, and definitely unforgettable experience in the Santa Ynez Valley. Feed ostriches and emus, learn about the giant birds, and snap pics as they strut like runway models with feathers to match. It's part roadside attraction, part educational stop, and an easy hit with kids and grown-ups alike. For more animal fun, visit the farm at Vega Vineyard and Farm, where kids can feed chickens, goats, and more. Hike the trails
The rolling hills around Santa Ynez Valley are filled with trails and views for days – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla
Framed by mountains and rolling hills, there's no shortage of hikes around Santa Ynez Valley, from easy walking paths to challenging hikes surrounded by wildflowers and views as far as the ocean. The in-and-out Lake Cachuma Sweetwater Trail offers stunning lakeside vistas, and the easy hike at Nojoqui Falls Park is always a popular choice. You'll find more rigorous trails with wow-worthy views along Gaviota Peak and Grass Mountain.
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At Vino Vaqueros, saddle up for a guided ride through rolling hills, shady oaks, and golden meadows. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, the views and pace are pure California calm. Rides are private and tailored — just you, the horse, and the Santa Ynez sun. If you do feel like sipping wine, rides come with two complimentary tastes after the trek (not during). Guests of the Alisal Guest Ranch can also enjoy horseback riding on the property. Take a hot air balloon ride
Sky's the Limit Ballooning offers rides above vineyards, ranches, and coastal mountains around the valley. The two-hour experience (one hour in the air) is peaceful, magical, and a breathtaking way to see the landscape unfold. Keep your eyes peeled for foxes, deer, and other wildlife below.
If you stay at the Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort in Solvang, the members-only Ranch Course is a premier setting with ancient oaks lining the fairways and mountains framing every hole. La Purisima Golf Course, located in nearby Lompoc, is a local favorite, boasting rolling terrain and a peaceful, uncrowded feel that's perfect for both casual and serious golfers. Eat like a local
Bell's in Los Alamos offers some of the best food in the Santa Ynez Valley – Photo courtesy of Carter Hiyama
Each town in the Santa Ynez Valley has its unique character and charm, and the restaurant scene follows suit. A few highlights include Michelin-worthy meals at Coast Range in Solvang, notable Bell's in Los Alamos, and sibling Bar Le Cote in Los Olivos. The latter has an incredible happy hour. A platter of freshly shucked oysters and killer fries are my go-to.
Family-friendly stalwarts include Full of Life Foods, where pizza reigns supreme (but don't miss the seasonal menu items). For breakfast pastries, stellar sandwiches, and grab-and-go delights, get to Bob's Well Bread in Los Alamos and Ballard early. Things sell out fast!
Seasonal salads, handmade pastas, and pizza are hallmarks of S.Y. Kitchen – Photo courtesy of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley
Dinner at Hitching Post 2 in Buellton features Santa Maria-style steaks, hearty side dishes, and a down-home crowd; it's also the most "Sideways" famous restaurant in the valley. S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez offers a unique blend of farmhouse vibes and handmade Italian specialties, including wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads.
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Where to stay in Santa Ynez Valley
A stay at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern is a perfect Santa Ynez Valley getaway – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla
The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection: This historic 1886 stagecoach-turned-luxury retreat in Los Olivos boasts a laid-back, elegant country-chic vibe. The Inn at Matttei's Tavern features reimagined cottages and studios with patios, spa, poolside cabanas, fire pits throughout the property, and a fantastic restaurant and bar. Don't miss experiences like a watercolor class under the water tower, making hats and olive oil, and the weekly winemakers' event at the bar, which brings locals and guests together for a lively happy hour.
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Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort: Nestled on 10,500 acres in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, Alisal Ranch blends the Old West with modern-luxe comfort. Think cozy cottages with fireplaces, a lake for fishing, tennis, plus 50 miles of horseback trails. Nightly rates include breakfast and dinner at any of the three all-day restaurants.
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Fess Parker Wine Country Inn: A staple in the heart of Los Olivos, the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn features 19 boutique-style rooms, a restaurant, a garden with firepits, and a heated pool.
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The Skyview Hotel is full of vibes in Los Alamos – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla
Skyview Los Alamos: You'll see the big, yellow sign from Highway 101 beckoning like a retro roadside motel, but the Skyview Hotel is a boutique stay with desert-cool vibes, a refreshing pool, and starlit patios. Meeting fellow guests around the firepits is part of the charm.
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Hotel Ynez: A stay at Hotel Ynez is an intimate Solvang retreat featuring firepits, a heated pool, and ample outdoor lounging space. The rooms have clean lines and modern touches.
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Santa Ynez Valley Marriott: This Marriott in Buellton offers easy access off Highway 101, ample rooms for groups, and is a popular choice for families traveling through the area.
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