32 College Towns That Feel Like a European Vacation Without Leaving the U.S.

Lisette Marie

November 3, 2025

25. Solvang, California – A Danish Village Fairytale

Solvang, California, with Danish style windmill and Danish flags. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @bossco

Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley wine country (near UCSB and Allan Hancock College), Solvang is an intentionally created Danish village that feels plucked straight from Hans Christian Andersen. Founded by Danish immigrants, the town boasts authentic Danish architecture with half-timbered houses, windmills, thatched roofs, and even a replica of Copenhagen's Little Mermaid statue. Indulge in aebleskiver (Danish pancakes), browse shops selling Scandinavian crafts, and soak in the unique, albeit tourist-focused, atmosphere that offers a truly distinct, fairytale-like Danish escape.

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32 College Towns That Feel Like a European Vacation Without Leaving the U.S.

25. Solvang, California – A Danish Village Fairytale

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