Santa Ynez Valley is one of the world’s “must visit” destinations. There’s a vibe around Santa Ynez that you simply can’t get anywhere else. Located in the beautiful Santa Barbara wine country, there really is something for everyone here to enjoy – from the beautiful mountains, to the wine, the climate, the beaches, the architecture, and so much more! Wine enthusiasts and travelers alike are sure to fall in love with the beauty and interest of the Santa Ynez Valley
Here are some great things to do while visiting Santa Ynez Valley.
The Great Outdoors
Popular tourist areas around the US have one thing that the Santa Ynez Valley does not – unpredictable weather. Santa Barbara County boasts mild temperatures and an abundance of sun drenched days all year long, making it the perfect location to get out and have an amazing outdoor adventure! From horseback riding and cycling, to golfing, hiking, and boating, there is something here for every outdoor enthusiast to enjoy. The golden oak studded and sage green foothills of the Santa Ynez mountain range offer stunning scenic views that make the perfect backdrop for fun outdoor family activities. Guided tours are also available to enjoy the valley and surrounding areas even more.
Breweries and Craft Beer
Although Santa Ynez Valley is well known for its outstanding wine, the local craft beer scene is quickly becoming just as popular for visitors and residents alike. Here, craft beer enthusiasts can find a wide selection of bars, restaurants, and tasting rooms to enjoy both local and international beer tastings. Solvang boasts a specialty brew shop where home brew enthusiasts can take classes and find brewing supplies for creating better craft beer at home. Every May, the Santa Ynez Valley celebrates all things beer during SYV Craft Beer Month. This celebration runs throughout the entire month where special offerings and events can be found throughout the area.
Restaurants
Whether you are a self proclaimed foodie or an extremely picky eater, the restaurants scattered around Santa Ynez Valley are sure to please. There truly is something for everyone – from authentic Danish dishes, Mediterranean fare, California cuisine, Italian pasta and pizza, fine dining steak and seafood, to down home American cuisine.
Art and Museums
A perfect marriage between past and present can be found in the Santa Ynez Valley. Área towns of Los Olivos, Solvang, Buellton, Los Alamos, Ballard, and Santa Ynez each feature unique personalities, characteristics, and colorful agricultural and ranching history, as well as Spanish, Dutch, Mexican, and Native American influences.
Local galleries and art communities strive to capture and preserve the natural environment and charm within each community. Vibrant museums celebrate the rich heritage and unique history of each town in the valley.
Nightlife
The clear night sky is not the only place stars can be seen in Santa Ynez Valley. The area features one-of-a-kind venues that light up the night with live entertainment, dancing, and world class dining. Visitors in search of fun after the sun goes down will find theatrical productions beneath the stars, live rock and country western music, 24/7 gaming action, and dozens of other entertainment spots to continue their Santa Ynez Valley adventure well after dark.
Wineries
Due to the region’s temperate weather, fertile vineyards and farms are abundant in the Santa Ynez Valley, offering visitors wine tastings year round that suit every taste and budget. Santa Barbara country features more than 300 wineries, and each of the six distinct towns in the valley features its own experiences, vibe, and culture.
Enjoy this year in Santa Ynez Valley at Mirabelle Inn
The Santa Ynez Valley truly is a diverse and spectacular area of the world that should be on everyone’s bucket list of places to see. When looking at places to stay in Solvang, the Mirabelle Inn brings you back to an era when service and elegance pampered the weary traveler by a well prepared staff. This boutique hotel is designed to provide the special details and touches to make you feel at home and attended to, like nowhere else in the Santa Ynez Valley.
Rated as one of the best hotels in Solvang, Mirabelle Inn features 12 guest rooms – each with distinctive decor and ambiance, featuring private, full bathrooms, luxurious bedding, and elegant antiques. Our 2019 Michelin Plate designated FIRST & OAK Restaurant, located in the Mirabelle, features exquisite wine country cuisine blending the culinary arts of our chef, reminiscent of France where local, fresh products are easily obtained. Book your stay at Mirabelle Inn today!