planning on making a trip around solvang area..any good places to visit that you recommend? also planning on staying in Rancho Santa Barbara- any feedback on this hotel..travelling with a 3 yr old

Solvang is not much more than a breakfast stop these days.

The Highway 152 route to Santa Barbara (as opposed to Highway 101) is very scenic. There is a beautiful lake (state park) on this route.

Actually it's Hwy 154 that travels to Santa Barbara. A scenic drive, but not favored by everyone, since it gets a little windy at times. It's also primarily 2 lanes in most places, so if you get stuck behind a boat or rv, you can get backed up.

Solvang is a cute little town to stretch the legs and get some Danish.

It's a cutesy tourist trap, NOT worth anyone's time, IMHO

I thought Solvang was nice to see. It was a little piece of Denmark in California. There are an endless number of bakeries selling fresh pastries.

Sorry, I have no information on the Rancho Santa Barbara. We stayed at the King Frederik. They have a complimentary continental breakfast and the rooms are nice.

Solvang may not be all that intersting as an adult but your 3 year old may like it. It's a very short visit and great for families. Don't miss the bakeries! (I have a favoirte but can't recall the name - it's one of the older bakeries.)

thank you for all the info!