4 Things to Do in the Sideways Town of Buellton
Peel off the coastal Hwy. 101 to a town made famous by the film Sideways that follows two men on a weeklong vacation in wine country. Here are our top four things to do.
1. Santa Barbara Blueberries at Restoration Oaks Ranch
Why go: Located just a few minutes from Buellton, this family-owned, 1,000-acre blueberry farm, cattle ranch and retreat offers a down-to-earth, u-pick experience. Fill up your silver pail with pesticide-free blueberries while enjoying being outside in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. santabarbarablueberries.com
Tip: During blueberry (June and July) and raspberry season (August through October), u-pick hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
2. Sideways Tour
Why go: Trace the steps of the characters who sipped their way around the Santa Ynez Valley, including Buellton’s Hitching Post II, in the 2004 hit film Sideways.
Tip: Pick up a Sideways map at the Buellton Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, 597 Avenue of Flags or follow the links online at www.discoverbuellton.com/travel-style/sideways-the-experience/
3. Pea Soup Andersen’s Restaurant
Why go: A mainstay for decades, this iconic restaurant in Buellton has been serving travelers and locals for 94 years. www.peasoupandersens.net
Tip: Jump on the bandwagon and order one of the 2 million bowls of pea soup this restaurant serves per year.
4. Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground
Why go: . Hip vintage Airstreams, luxury safari tents, wine cottages with grapevines growing between backyards and national park-themed cabins offer an amazing lodging experience in Buellton. There are two heated pools. highwaywestvacations.com/properties/flyingflags
Tip: Play bocce ball or horse shoes before heading to the Friday night BBQ at the hip Campfire Cafe.