This is one in a series of stories exploring things to do in communities across Santa Barbara County. It’s a starting point for locals who want to explore, people hosting family and friends, and visitors to the area.  

If you’re looking for something to do in the Santa Ynez Valley, you’ve got plenty of options without overplanning. Whether you’re filling a full day for the family or just heading out for an afternoon, here are five ways to spend your time.

Take a Museum and History Stop

Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center

One of the most meaningful looks at the Santa Ynez Valley’s deeper roots can be found at the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center just off Highway 246 at 3500 Numancia St. in Santa Ynez.

Opened in May 2025, the museum offers an immersive look at Chumash history and culture through interactive exhibits, cultural objects and storytelling.

The museum grounds are also part of the experience, with paths winding through lush native gardens that highlight land stewardship practices that have played an important role in Chumash culture for generations.

Museum staff recommend budgeting 60 to 90 minutes to see the exhibitions on display or at least two hours if you plan to explore the full property. For current hours, admission and ticket details, visit the museum’s website.

Elverhøj Museum of History & Art

The Elverhøj Museum of History & Art is a cozy museum set inside a former Danish-style home at 1624 Elverhoy Way in Solvang. It features artifacts, local history exhibits and rotating art shows that explore Solvang’s Danish heritage and Danish-American culture.

The community-supported museum presents the town’s story in an intimate setting, with additional events and exhibits that highlight the fine arts.

For current hours, admission and exhibit information, visit the museum’s website.

Explore the Outdoors

Lake Cachuma Recreation Area

Lake Cachuma is an easy pick for an outdoor day in the Santa Ynez Valley, whether you’re coming out for a hike, a picnic or a weekend of camping.

Located off Highway 154 at 1 Lakeview Drive, the county park offers hiking, fishing, boating, disc golf, picnic areas, a general store and restaurant. The park also has a range of options for overnight stays, including tent, RV and cabin camping.

For current hours, fees and campsite reservations, visit the county’s website.

Highline Adventures

Highline Adventures in Buellton offers an outdoor experience built around views, fresh air and a little adrenaline.

Located at 700 E. Highway 246, it’s a good option for families or anyone looking to do something active outside, with ziplines that take riders high into the hills of the Santa Ynez Valley.

For current hours, reservations and pricing, visit Highline Adventures’ website.

Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden

The Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden offers a relaxed outdoor stop at River View Park, 151 Sycamore Drive in Buellton, with an accessible, interactive layout that highlights plants native to the Santa Ynez River watershed.

Open every day sunrise to sundown, the garden is designed as both a peaceful place to wander and a space for environmental education. Its location inside River View Park also makes it an easy afternoon with kids, with nearby play equipment and wide open lawn space for running around.

For more information and a list of upcoming events, visit the botanic garden’s website.

Grab Breakfast in Solvang

Solvang is a great place to start the day, whether you want something quick from a bakery or a full sit-down breakfast before heading out to explore the valley.

With famous bakeries, a walkable downtown and plenty of free street parking, it’s a good place to grab a meal and take a quick stroll through the Danish-style village.

For a list of breakfast and brunch spots, check out Visit Solvang’s guide here.

Go Wine and Beer Tasting in Los Olivos

Los Olivos makes tasting the valley’s wine and beer simple, with plenty of options concentrated in this charming community. With restaurants, a lively arts scene and antique shops to explore, visitors can turn a couple tastings into a full afternoon. 

For a full list of wine and beer tasting options, visit the Los Olivos Chamber of Commerce website here.

Try Something Different in the Valley

OstrichLand USA

OstrichLand USA is a classic Santa Ynez Valley detour at 610 E. Highway 246 in Solvang, where visitors can get up close and feed ostriches and emus.

It’s the kind of stop that turns into a lot of laughs and a lot of photos, especially if you’re visiting with kids or want something completely different from the usual wine-country routine.

For current hours, admission and visitor information, visit OstrichLand USA’s website.

Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum

The Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum at 320 Alisal Road in the city’s Village Square showcases a broad collection of vintage and rare motorcycles, with an emphasis on racing bikes.

Bikes on display range from early models to modern machines, and cover a mix of makes and styles for both casual visitors and enthusiasts.

For current hours, admission and visitor information, visit the museum’s website.

The Ultimate Escape Rooms Solvang

The Ultimate Escape Rooms in Solvang offers themed escape games where small groups work together to solve clues and puzzles against the clock.

Located at 485 Alisal Road, Suite 120, in Solvang, rooms are designed for groups of up to eight, making it a fun pick for families, date nights, birthdays or team-building.

For current hours, pricing and reservations, visit the company’s website.

What are your favorite local attractions or hidden gems? Let us know at news@noozhawk.com.