Kid Friendly Things to Do in Solvang for Families
If you are planning a family getaway and searching for kid friendly things to do in Solvang, you will find that this charming Danish-inspired town is full of thoughtful, low-key experiences that feel easy with kids. From whimsical playgrounds to gentle animal encounters and sweet local treats, Solvang invites families to slow down, explore together, and enjoy simple moments that feel memorable without feeling rushed.
What This Guide Covers
This guide is designed to help families feel confident and cared for while exploring Solvang. You will find:
• Outdoor play spaces that let kids burn energy naturally
• Animal experiences that are calm and age-appropriate
• Family-friendly treats beyond the classic bakeries
• Indoor cultural stops that keep kids curious
• Local tips to help your visit feel smooth and well-paced
Whether you are staying nearby or visiting for the day, these kid friendly things to do in Solvang are easy to mix and match based on your family’s rhythm.
The Best Kid Friendly Things to Do in Solvang
Solvang may be small, but it is filled with experiences that feel especially welcoming for families traveling with young children or elementary-age kids.
Sunny Fields Park
Sunny Fields Park is one of the most loved kid friendly things to do in Solvang, and it is easy to see why. The wooden castle-style playground feels imaginative and open-ended, encouraging kids to climb, explore, and create their own games. Parents appreciate the shaded picnic tables, grassy areas for free play, and clean restrooms nearby.
This park is an ideal first stop in the morning when kids have fresh energy and the weather is cooler. It also works well as a reset point between downtown strolls.
Helpful tip: Pick up pastries or fruit from a local bakery and enjoy a relaxed picnic while the kids play.
Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch
A visit to Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch feels gentle, peaceful, and unexpectedly magical. Children love seeing the miniature horses up close, especially during feeding times when the horses are active and curious. There is no admission fee, and the atmosphere is calm, making it a wonderful option for younger kids who may feel overwhelmed by busier attractions.
This is one of those kid friendly things to do in Solvang that parents often appreciate just as much as children.
Hello Sunshine tip: Call ahead to confirm viewing hours so you can plan your visit during outdoor time.
Outdoor Adventures Beyond Downtown
Solvang’s surrounding landscape adds even more opportunities for families who enjoy light outdoor adventures.
Nojoqui Falls Park
Just a short drive from town, Nojoqui Falls Park offers an easy half-mile trail that works well for most ages. The path leads to a seasonal waterfall and provides a refreshing contrast to downtown streets. The walk is shaded and manageable, making it one of the most accessible outdoor kid friendly things to do in Solvang and the surrounding area.
Bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes. After rain, kids often enjoy seeing the water flow more actively.
Indoor Activities Kids Will Enjoy
Sometimes families need a quiet indoor break, especially during warmer afternoons or cooler mornings.
Hans Christian Andersen Museum
Located inside The Book Loft, the Hans Christian Andersen Museum is a small but meaningful stop for families who enjoy stories and culture. Exhibits introduce children to classic fairy tales like The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling while connecting them to Solvang’s Danish heritage.
The museum is compact, making it easy to visit without overwhelming young attention spans. It pairs nicely with browsing the bookstore below.
Sweet Treat Stops Kids Love
Solvang is known for pastries, but there are many sweet stops that feel especially fun for kids.
Family-Friendly Treat Shops
Some favorite options include:
• Old Danish Fudge Kitchen, where kids can watch fudge being made
• Solvang Trolley Ice Cream Parlor for classic cones and sundaes
• Swedish Candy Factory for colorful handmade Polkagris candy
• Alessio’s Gelato for smooth Italian flavors on warmer days
These sweet stops are easy to work into your walk through town and make great incentives for little legs.
Hello Sunshine tip: Bringing treats back to your vacation rental can create a calm afternoon break and avoid sugar overload on the go.
Unique Experiences Kids Remember
Solvang offers a few activities that stand out as truly memorable for families.
Solvang Honen Trolley Ride
The Solvang Honen Trolley is a horse-drawn streetcar that offers a relaxed way to see town. Kids love the friendly horses and the novelty of the ride, while parents enjoy the chance to rest their feet. The trolley typically runs on weekends and holidays and fits nicely into a slower-paced afternoon.
OstrichLand USA
OstrichLand USA is one of the most popular kid friendly things to do in Solvang for families who enjoy animal encounters. Children can feed ostriches and emus from a safe distance, and the birds’ curious personalities often lead to laughter and wide-eyed excitement. Admission includes bird feed, and the visit usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, making it easy to pair with other activities.
Local Tips for Guests
• Visit downtown in the morning for lighter crowds
• Weekdays are calmer at parks and attractions
• Bring layers since coastal breezes reach the valley
• Many sweet shops open mid-morning after park time
• Parking is often easiest at the edges of downtown
These small details can make exploring kid friendly things to do in Solvang feel more relaxed and enjoyable.
Where to Stay Nearby
For families visiting Solvang, Sunshine Farmhouse offers a warm, comfortable home base designed with ease in mind. With space for kids to play, areas to gather, and peaceful surroundings for adults to unwind, it supports both connection and rest. Its location allows for quick access to town while still feeling quiet and calm at the end of the day.
Families who are extending their trip also enjoy our Orange County homes as part of a broader Southern California itinerary. Every Stay Hello Sunshine property is thoughtfully prepared to help families feel settled and cared for.
Plan Your Stay
Kid Friendly Things to Do in Solvang for Families- Solvang is a place where families can enjoy unhurried days, gentle adventures, and simple pleasures together. With so many kid friendly things to do in Solvang, it is easy to create a trip that feels balanced and joyful. When you stay with Stay Hello Sunshine, you can relax knowing your home base is just as welcoming as the experiences around you.
