Solvang

About 40 minutes northeast of Santa Barbara in the Santa Ynez Valley. We used to go there all the time as kids during the holidays to eat at our favorite smorgasbord (which, sadly, no longer exists). The drive along Chumash Highway (154) is absolutely gorgeous.

Olson's Bakery is a favorite -- lots of good, authentic Danish baked goods.

Paula's Pancake House has excellent Danish pancakes.

Solvang Restaurant claims their Aebleskiver is famous. Possibly true, but it's nothing to go out of your way for.