Are you dreaming of a trip to the Netherlands to bask in Dutch half-timbered architecture, windmills, and tulips; but don’t have the funds for a trip overseas? Buy a plane ticket to California!

Last summer, I embarked on a road trip from San Francisco to LA. I made totally unnecessary and out of the way stops which extended my trip to twelve hours door to door (I don't recommend that). But, while some stops weren't worth the extra time, I do recommend stopping in a little town named Solvang.

Solvang is a town off the 101 that was settled by Danish-Americans. After World War II, there was a push to retrofit existing and build new buildings in a style that was more representative of the town’s inhabitants’ ancestral homes. In the present day, the town has become a thriving tourist attraction due to it’s impeccable Danish architecture, local wineries, and cultural events.

I recommend walking around the town to explore and grabbing a pastry at Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery. Check the town’s website for a calendar of events and celebrations.