Solvang and Los Olivos are the most convenient areas to stay for the wedding weekend, both are incredibly charming and close to all of the festivities.
We’ll have wedding shuttles running from Solvang on the wedding day, but renting a car is highly recommended for the rest of the weekend. Events and experiences will be spread throughout the area, generally within 15–20 minutes of one another.
Getting There
You’re welcome to fly into Los Angeles and enjoy a beautiful coastal drive up to wine country, or fly into Santa Barbara Airport, which is the closest option. Santa Ynez is roughly 35–40 minutes from Santa Barbara, depending on traffic.
About the Towns
Solvang
Only 15 minutes by car from the Ranch, Solvang is a charming town that blends old-world Danish charm with modern wine country style. Surrounded by Danish inspired architecture, windmills, and bakeries, you’ll have access to plenty of shops, cafes, hotels, restaurants, and tasting rooms. Grab an authentic aebleskiver (apple pastry) and stroll through the quaint cobblestone streets to take in the city's scenery.
Santa Ynez
Smaller than Solvang and located down the street from The Ranch, Santa Ynez is a quintessential Western town where Old West charm meets modern sophistication. Historic facades and hitching posts blend seamlessly with boutique shopping, chef-driven restaurants, and stylish Santa Ynez hotels. The town is walkable, and you’ll have access to tasting rooms, galleries, and honky-tonk bars,
Los Olivos
A hub for great wine tasting rooms and elevated hospitality, this idyllic town is the ultimate romantic getaway and a dream for wine lovers, art seekers, and casual explorers alike. With over 35 Los Olivos tasting rooms, locally owned and sourced shops, and standout restaurants packed into just a few walkable blocks, this idyllic town is the ultimate romantic getaway and a dream for wine lovers, art seekers, and casual explorers alike. Our Welcome Party will take place at Nella Kitchen, located in the Fess Parker Inn in Los Olivos.
Buellton
The farthest from our venue, Buellton has transformed from a roadside stopover into a fun, accessible town with a thriving culinary and craft beverage scene, outdoor adventures, and quirky attractions. You’ll have access to everything you need, and you’ll be a 20-25 minute drive from our venue.
Hotels & Stays
We’ve recommended several hotels across a range of price points below. Due to the popularity of tourism and weddings during the month of September, the area books up quickly, so we encourage booking early. We’ve secured room blocks at the hotels indicated below.
Airbnb and boutique vacation rentals are also wonderful options in all the towns described above.
Solvang
Room Block available, mention the Elkin/Ford Wedding to secure a preferred rate.
Room Block available, mention the Elkin/Ford Wedding. If booking online, select the tab titled Special Rates and use the Group code 90L for the Elkin/Ford Wedding rate.
Los Olivos
The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Collection