If you’re lookin for the things to do in Santa Ynez Valley that don’t involve food or booze, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve also detailed where to stay in SYV, the best restaurants in the area & where to drink. There is also an SYV guide on my instagram with quite a few places if you like that format!
Shop small
Head into Santa Ynez Valley Opportunity Shop if you are a fan of thrifting. I found some gems (picnic basket, fabric, dress, earrings) for such a good deal! I highly recommend parking at one end of the Main Street in SY and walk around to explore.
If you’re looking for some beautiful vintage jewelry or just feel like playing dress up, stop by Designs in Gold in Solvang. Downtown Solvang is the perfect size to pop into a few spots if you’re in the mood for a bit of shopping.
Los Alamos also has some wonderful shops on Bell Street. This is the old school main street and is easily walkable. We popped into Keanes Eclectic after lunch at Bell’s and found a few treasures to bring home. Just across the street is Elder Flat – a lovely curated farm store & Sister’s – an eclectic mix of found and new home and gift items!
Get outside
If you want to see some cute animals, drive by (or stop at) Quicksilver Ranch to see the mini horses or Ostrichland USA for ostriches! I actually haven’t been to either before, but have driven by and ogled at those cuties! Recently, I did go to Vega Vineyard and Farm and they have a wide array of adorable farm animals.
If you happen to be in the area on the first Saturday of the month and enjoy wine, Solminer’s Regenerative Organic farm and vineyard tour is a great option. You get to explore their vines and meet their farm animals while learning about our Biodynamic and Regenerative practices. ~ free for two guests per wine club membership; $25 for non-members; wine tasting not included ~
I would highly recommend a beach day at Gaviota Beach in the off season when it isn’t open for camping. I am not sure if this was because of the pandemic or the season, but it was wonderful and peaceful with only a few other people.
Visit Nojoqui Falls!
Get creative
I highly recommend taking a class at Community Clayworks in Buellton. We booked ours through Airbnb experiences and it was a 2 hour class on the potter’s wheel. There are also a bunch of classes listed on their website.
Things to do in Santa Ynez Valley (only) in the Fall
Obviously everything I listed above can be done in the fall, but this is something you can ONLY do in the fall. If you find yourself in the SYV area in the fall before November 1st, go to the Solvang Pumpkin Patch!
Since the area is all about food and wine, I haven’t done a TON of other activities, but I am definitely branching out!
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