San Juan Capistrano, a picturesque city nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, is a destination that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Mission San Juan Capistrano was established in 1776. Here’s a guide to some of the must-visit places at the birthplace of Orange County.
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Top Attractions:
Start your journey at the iconic Mission San Juan Capistrano, often referred to as the “Jewel of the California Missions.” Founded in 1776, this historic landmark is a treasure trove of beautifully preserved architecture and lush gardens. Explore the serene Serra Chapel, the oldest building in California still in use, and marvel at the Great Stone Church ruins. The mission is also famous for the annual return of the swallows, celebrated around March 19th, marking the arrival of spring.
The development of Los Rios Street is closely tied to the establishment of nearby Mission San Juan Capistrano. In 1794, fourty adobe structures were constructed at the present site of Los Rios Street to house the Native Americans who labored at the mission. The history of Father Serra can be viewed in this e-book.
As the village grew, it was incorporated into the plans for the secular pueblo of San Juan Capistrano which was created in 1841. Los Rios Street was originally called Calle Occidental, or ‘West Street,’ indicating its orientation to the western edge of the mission grounds. Several adobes from the 18th century remain to represent this earliest phase of development. Take an adobe tour with the SJC Docent Society to learn more.
🍴 Dining and Shopping:
No visit to San Juan Capistrano is complete without indulging in its culinary offerings. Consider dining at El Adobe de Capistrano where President Nixon used to frequent and try his “El Presidente” platter. Judge Richard Egan‘s historic house is now called Ellie’s Table where you’ll find a delicious deli and coffee. Situated in the late 1800s historic train depot, Trevor’s at the Tracks combines unique atmosphere and live music. It is adjacent to the modern-day Capistrano Depot that actively takes you on the train throughout SoCal.
Explore the River Street Marketplace in San Juan Capistrano. This 8,000 sq. ft. space features 10 dining options, from handmade pasta to fresh sushi. Dan Lindquist shared with us that it will open Fall 2024.
Located in the Los Rios Historic District, Ramos House Cafe is a local favorite for brunch in the delightful garden that is harvested for the entrées. The Tea House offers a delightful menu with desserts.
Accommodations
The Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano is a boutique hotel located steps from the historic mission, offering elegant rooms, a spa, and fine dining. The Residence Inn by Marriott Dana Point San Juan Capistrano offers spacious suites with full kitchens. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and evening socials.
Los Rios Historic District:
While you visit San Juan Capistrano, make sure to visit the Los Rios Street Historic District. It is part of the National Register of Historic Places.
The National Park Service stated that the Los Rios District “illustrates the growth of an 18th-century California village. The small vernacular residential buildings of the district date from the late 18th century to the early 20th century.” The Los Rios Historic District is the oldest continuously occupied neighborhood in California.
You will encounter the Montanez Adobe which was constructed in 1794. It is one of the forty houses built for the Mission Native Americans. It was restored in the 1980s with seismic retrofit beams. This historic site has period-piece reproduction furniture.
Walk through its charming streets lined with adobe homes, vibrant gardens, and quaint shops. Visit the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society and enjoy the preserved historical structures. You can explore the O’Neill Museum for insight into the area’s rich history. They have rotating exhibits which have included the “History of Farming in the Capistrano Valley” in 2018 and Pirate Hipólito Bouchard.
View public art in the city of San Juan Capistrano courtesy of The Alliance for San Juan Art (TASJA). These maps are available at the information kiosk at the depot, the Inn at the Mission, and other downtown locations. You can view the catalog with all these art landmarks with the descriptions. TASJA shares, “While large artworks are not unknown in San Juan Capistrano, they are mostly commissioned in the courtyards of business plazas and are not readily visible or accessible except to lessees and patrons of the plazas. “Binding Contract” aka the “Riders on the Hill” is an exception. It stands in blazing glory on a Del Obispo hillside, visible to all who pass by. The new murals on Capistrano Plaza, “Old San Juan” and “Mission Garden” are other exceptions. All are outstanding examples of ‘public and visible’ art.”
A hub for sustainability, The Ecology Center offers hands-on experiences and workshops focused on eco-friendly living. It’s a great place to learn about organic farming, water conservation, and sustainable practices.