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Venice, Los Angeles, CAįeels like: Amsterdam, Holland (even though it’s named after Venice, Italy) Solvang is a gem for everyone but it was especially memorable for us because our roots are Scandanavian-and quite frankly, apple fritters and almond kringles are in our blood. I noticed many parks and places to obtain ancestral information and family shields! I did a long run out to the wine country and through the town. Since we had limited time, just strolling down the street with the ambience and the charming boutique shops felt magical for our little family. While the Danish possibilities are endless, our favorite was the Danish Almond Kringle. Our first stop was the Solvang Windmill and the Solvang Bakery which are right next to each other. When we got out of the car, we couldn’t help but notice all the delicious smells coming from the many bakeries. Upon arrival, you’ll likely see freshly painted half timber architecture, a darling danish windmill and a replica of the Little Mermaid–Copenhagen’s bronze statue dedicated to its famous Danish author Hans Christian Anderson, the fable writer and storyteller.

That’s because it was actually founded by Danish immigrants in 1911. Solvang is a little slice of Denmark nestled in beautiful Santa Barbara County and is another place in California that looks like Europe. Solvang, CAįeels like: Denmark European town in California: And yes, get the chocolate- covered bacon! Also, if you go to the Farmer’s Market with kids, make sure you stop by the playground off of Old Town Front Street and eat your treats in the SoCal sun! 5. Book a room at the Springhill Suites in Temecula – averages under $150/nightįamily trip or romantic getaway, it is hard to go wrong with Temecula.

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Where we stayed: Springhill Suites Temecula Valley Wine Country – we recommend staying here for an affordable, family-friendly hotel with large suites that sleep 6, an outdoor pool, and free breakfast. With its sprawling vineyards, fragrant lemon orchards, lush green hills and endless olive trees, we felt like we were in the Mediterranean climate–but only 700 miles from home. The kids loved every minute of it and even asked to grow our own lemon tree so they could make lemonade. This felt fun to us because this is where I was born in the area and there was a lot of nostalgia telling the kids about the fresh fruit I would pick off trees in my grandma’s backyard! We also visited our friends from Spain that we met when we lived in LA and who have since settled down in Temecula. Between the vineyards and Spanish-influence buildings, it will transport you to Southern Spain. This city in Riverside County is considered Southern California’s wine country and is one of the top places in California that look like Europe.

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Luckily, the Golden State’s diverse topography and rich history will make you feel like you’re enjoying a swanky European vacation on a dime–and the bonus: no passport required.īefore you continue reading, make sure you download our FREE California Bucket List for 100+ ideas of family-friendly things to do in California for your next road trip! 6.

And taking all of our kids across the Atlantic to Europe would be a huge and expensive undertaking. Instead, check out these places in California that look like Europe! You’ll get a taste of the European culture, food, architecture, and landscapes.Īs a family who lived in this beautiful state, we can attest that oft times we felt no reason to ever leave it to travel elsewhere. Many people dream of flying to Europe, but it can be a daunting adventure if you have kids or are on a tight budget.