Episode 151 Next Stop: Buellton California |
There is much to see and do when visiting Buellton, California. It’s a great place to travel with your RV and family! With so much to do, you can plan outings every day that you’re there, or you can relax and chill sometimes. Whatever suits your needs, Buellton has what you want!
Places to See in Buellton
Ostrichland
- Interaction with Ostriches and Emus: Ostrichland is home to a large population of ostriches and emus. Visitors can get up close and personal with these fascinating birds, feed them, and even hold ostrich eggs. It’s a rare chance to interact with these magnificent creatures hands-on.
- Educational Opportunities: Ostrichland provides educational opportunities about ostriches and emus, including their behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts. Visitors can learn interesting facts about these birds and better understand their importance in the ecosystem.
- Picturesque Setting: Set against the scenic backdrop of the Santa Ynez Valley, Ostrichland offers breathtaking views and a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. The surrounding vineyards and rolling hills add to the charm of the experience.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Ostrichland is an excellent destination for families, offering activities that appeal to children and adults. From feeding the birds to exploring the grounds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
- Memorable Souvenirs: The onsite gift shop at Ostrichland offers a variety of unique souvenirs, including ostrich and emu-themed gifts, apparel, and decor. Visitors can take home a memento of their visit to remember the experience by.
Hans Christian Anderson Museum and Park
Exhibition of Andersen’s Life and Works: The museum showcases exhibits dedicated to Hans Christian Andersen’s life, including his childhood, travels, and literary career. Visitors can learn about his upbringing in Denmark, his struggles, successes, and the inspirations behind his timeless fairy tales.
- Interactive Displays: Many exhibits within the museum are interactive, offering visitors a hands-on experience. This can include multimedia presentations, storytelling sessions, and activities inspired by Andersen’s stories. It’s an engaging way for both children and adults to immerse themselves in the world of Andersen’s imagination.
- Collection of Artifacts and Memorabilia: The museum houses a collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to Hans Christian Andersen, including original manuscripts, illustrations, personal belongings, and rare editions of his works. These items provide insight into Andersen’s life and the historical context in which he lived and wrote.
- Educational Programs: The museum offers educational programs and workshops designed to promote literacy, creativity, and cultural understanding. These programs may include storytelling sessions, writing workshops, and guided tours tailored for school groups and families.
- Cultural Heritage: By preserving and celebrating Hans Christian Andersen’s legacy, the museum promotes Danish culture and heritage in the United States. It serves as a cultural landmark and a tribute to one of Denmark’s most beloved literary figures.
Gaviota Hot Springs
Natural Setting: Gaviota Hot Springs is situated in a picturesque canyon within Gaviota State Park, surrounded by oak trees, chaparral, and stunning views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. The remote location offers a peaceful and serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Geothermal Waters: The hot springs are fed by natural geothermal waters that emerge from the Earth’s crust. These mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic properties, including soothing sore muscles, improving circulation, and promoting overall well-being.
- Soaking Pools: Visitors can enjoy soaking in a series of rock-lined pools of varying temperatures, ranging from warm to hot, depending on the flow of the spring water and the time of year. The pools are typically shallow and offer visitors a communal experience to socialize and unwind.
- Hiking Opportunities: Accessing Gaviota Hot Springs often involves a moderate hike along a trail within Gaviota State Park. The hike itself can be a rewarding experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness and enjoy scenic vistas along the way.
- Camping and Picnicking: Gaviota State Park offers camping facilities and picnic areas near the hot springs, providing visitors with the opportunity to extend their stay and enjoy outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, birdwatching, and nature photography.
- Nature Observation: The area surrounding Gaviota Hot Springs is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers. Visitors may encounter native plants, birds, and other wildlife species while exploring the park’s trails and natural habitats.
Places to Eat in Buellton
Ellens Danish Pancake
- Authentic Danish Pancakes: Ellen’s Danish Pancake House serves traditional Danish pancakes, often referred to as “æbleskiver.” These are typically fluffy, round pancakes cooked in a special pan with indentations, resulting in a unique shape that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Variety of Toppings: At Ellen’s, you might find a variety of toppings to accompany your pancakes. Traditional toppings include powdered sugar and raspberry jam, but they may offer other options like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup to suit different tastes.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Ellen’s Danish Pancake House likely offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast or brunch with family and friends. The restaurant might have charming Danish-inspired decor, adding to the overall dining experience.
- Local Favorite: Being located in Buellton, California, Ellen’s Danish Pancake House is likely a local favorite and a popular destination for both residents and visitors exploring the Santa Ynez Valley area.
- Community Connection: Ellen’s may have a strong connection to the local community, possibly sourcing ingredients locally and participating in community events. It’s not uncommon for local businesses like this to have a loyal following and to be actively involved in supporting the community.
Industrial Eats
- Creative Menu: Industrial Eats offers a diverse and creative menu featuring a variety of dishes inspired by global cuisines. From wood-fired pizzas and gourmet sandwiches to fresh salads and seasonal specials, there’s something for every palate.
- Locally-Sourced Ingredients: The restaurant prides itself on sourcing high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. This commitment to using fresh, seasonal produce and supporting local farmers and producers ensures that each dish is bursting with flavor and showcases the best of the region’s culinary offerings.
- Butcher Counter: One of Industrial Eats’ unique features is its on-site butcher counter, where guests can purchase a selection of fresh meats, charcuterie, and artisanal cheeses to enjoy at home. This adds a distinctive element to the dining experience and allows patrons to take a taste of Industrial Eats home with them.
- Casual Atmosphere: Despite its culinary sophistication, Industrial Eats maintains a laid-back and casual atmosphere. The restaurant is housed in a converted warehouse space with communal tables and an open kitchen, creating a convivial atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy good food and company.
- Community Hub: Industrial Eats has become a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike, serving as a community hub where friends and families come together to share a meal, celebrate special occasions, or simply unwind after a day of exploring the Santa Ynez Valley.
La Tequila
Authentic Mexican Cuisine: La Tequila serves up classic Mexican dishes made with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. From tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and burritos, the menu offers a wide variety of options to satisfy your cravings for Mexican flavors.
- Wide Selection of Tequila: As the name suggests, La Tequila likely boasts an impressive selection of tequila and other Mexican spirits. Whether you prefer your tequila straight, in a margarita, or as part of a tequila flight, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from to complement your meal.
- Colorful and Festive Atmosphere: The restaurant’s atmosphere is likely colorful and festive, with vibrant decor, lively music, and friendly staff creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal with friends, La Tequila provides a fun and festive setting for dining out.
- Outdoor Dining: Buellton’s mild climate makes it an ideal location for outdoor dining, and La Tequila may offer a spacious outdoor patio where guests can enjoy their meals al fresco. This allows diners to soak up the California sunshine while savoring their favorite Mexican dishes.
- Community Favorite: La Tequila is likely a beloved local spot, frequented by both residents and visitors to the area. Its reputation for delicious food, attentive service, and lively atmosphere has likely earned it a loyal following within the community.
RV Parks in Buellton
Flying Flags RV Resort
Variety of Accommodations: Flying Flags offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and group sizes. These include RV sites with full hookups for water, electricity, and sewer, as well as rental cottages, cabins, and safari tents for those without RVs.
- Modern Amenities: The resort boasts modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for guests. This may include clean restrooms and shower facilities, laundry facilities, a convenience store, and a clubhouse or recreation center.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Flying Flags RV Resort provides a variety of family-friendly activities and recreational facilities to keep guests entertained during their stay. This may include swimming pools, hot tubs, playgrounds, sports courts, and organized activities such as movie nights and arts and crafts for children.
- Pet-Friendly: Many guests appreciate that Flying Flags is pet-friendly, allowing them to bring their furry companions along on their RV adventures. The resort may offer amenities specifically for pets, such as dog parks or pet washing stations.
- Convenient Location: Situated in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley wine country, Flying Flags RV Resort offers easy access to a variety of attractions and activities. Guests can explore nearby wineries, breweries, restaurants, hiking trails, and other outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Community Atmosphere: The resort fosters a sense of community among guests, with communal gathering spaces and social events where campers can meet and connect with fellow travelers.
River Park RV Campground
Scenic Location: Situated along the banks of the Santa Ynez River, River Park RV Campground offers a tranquil and natural setting surrounded by the beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley. Guests can enjoy views of the river, mature trees, and nearby hillsides, providing a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
- RV Sites: The campground provides spacious RV sites equipped with full hookups for water, electricity, and sewer connections. These sites may accommodate a range of RV sizes and include amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to communal facilities.
- Outdoor Recreation: River Park offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. Guests can enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking along the riverbanks or in the surrounding area. The campground may also feature walking trails or access to nearby parks and nature reserves.
- Community Facilities: River Park RV Campground may offer community facilities for guests to enjoy, such as a clubhouse, recreation room, or outdoor gathering areas. These spaces provide opportunities for socializing with fellow campers, hosting events, or participating in organized activities.
- Pet-Friendly: Many RV campgrounds, including River Park, are pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along on their camping adventures. The campground may have designated pet areas or walking trails where pets can exercise and play.
- Nearby Attractions: Buellton and the surrounding Santa Ynez Valley offer a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Guests at River Park RV Campground can explore local wineries, breweries, restaurants, and shops, as well as nearby attractions such as Solvang, Los Olivos, and the Chumash Casino Resort.
Visit Solvang: A short drive from Buellton is Solvang, a charming Danish-style village known for its windmills, bakeries, and wine-tasting rooms. Explore the quaint streets, sample Danish pastries, and browse the unique shops.