The little town of San Juan Capistrano is full of history, going back to the foundation of its mission in 1776. San Juan Capistrano has a strong influence on California history as well as Spanish Architecture. Visitors from all over the USA come to this quaint western city located in South Orange County, CA. With all the charm of a small town, it's hard not to find enjoyable fun things to do in the city.

Read below to view some of the best attractions in San Juan Capistrano.

Explore San Juan Capistrano

• Parks
• Historical Places
• Churches
• Best Restaurants
• Suites & Inn

Weekend getaways are always perfect together with family and friends. Explore and discover the historical places, places to eat, and places to stay when planning to stay overnight.

Top Things To Do In San Juan Capistrano

Mission San Juan Capistrano

Mission San Juan Capistrano is a historic church, monument, and museum with a history going back over 200 years. Visitors may unwind in the tranquil grounds, get hands-on and weave their baskets using Native American traditions, or attend one of the numerous events or festivals held there. There will be one-of-a-kind artwork, valuable relics, and rare treasures on display, as well as a customary rich of the famous bell to commemorate Saint Junipero Serra.

Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano

In 1986 on top of the ruins of the Great Stone Church, they created the San Juan Capistrano Mission Basilica, which has stood there for centuries. The historical and religious artifacts and artworks on display in the basilica will astonish art enthusiasts. They dedicate these highlights to Native American art, numerous portraits, and a beautiful collection of religious items such as tabernacles and vestments.

ZOOMARS Petting Zoo, San Juan Capistrano

ZOOMARS Petting Zoo is a one-of-a-kind attraction in San Juan Capistrano that you won't find anywhere else. The zoo has been established for almost thirty years and is a popular daytime destination for families. Sheep, cows, pigs, guinea pigs, emus, rabbits, goats, and even lovely llamas are among the friendly animals you'll witness. At ZOOMARS, visitors of all ages enjoy a fantastic time.

Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, San Juan Capistrano

The Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness is an 8,000-acre wilderness preserve set among sandstone canyons, river terraces, and the Santa Ana Mountains in southern California. It is accessible all year and is ideal for exploring the area's beautiful flora and wildlife, including California sycamore and coastal live oak trees. If you get the chance spend the night camping in their authorized sites equipped with all the amenities, you may spend hours trekking the paths through meadows rich with wildflowers and flowing streams. Hiking the trails through fields full of wildflowers and flowing streams might take hours. Many programs and events are held, including ranger-guided nature walks and critter talks with local naturalists.

O'Neill Museum, San Juan Capistrano

The O'Neill Museum, is the first house built and originally known as the Garcia/Pryor Residence, is San Juan Capistrano's early frame buildings. Visitors will now learn about the history, and they can explore the museum, which also serves as the headquarters of the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society.

Los Rios Historic District, San Juan Capistrano

Located across the Capistrano terminal and separated by railroad tracks. The Los Rios Historic District is some of California's oldest neighborhoods. Over forty houses exist on the property, including three historic adobe structures housed mission ranch laborers and mission constructors in the late 1700s. Many of the structures you'll see are private houses. However, some have been turned into businesses and are available to the public.

Los Rios Park, San Juan Capistrano

Los Rios, located in the Los Rios Historic District, is a wonderful play place for younger children. The park's wood and iron accents transport visitors to the Old West, allowing children's imaginations to run wild. It has an enormous rock to climb, saddled 'horses' to ride, swings, and other entertaining features.

Capistrano Depot, San Juan Capistrano

The Capistrano train station was built in 1984 and is still in use today. The amazing art gallery is a fantastic opportunity to see unique, local artwork that you won't find anyplace else. You may use the trains to tour the area, which the kids will enjoy, or dine at Trevor's at the Tracks, located within the depot.

Arley Leck House, San Juan Capistrano

The Arley Leck House in San Juan Capistrano is a 1918 craftsman house that exhibits the style and décor of early twentieth-century architecture. Learn about the area's history, how the family lived at the time, and even the clothing used. Take note of the incredible features in the built-in cabinetry and wood trim, as well as an antique piano with WWI-era sheet music.

San Juan Capistrano Food

You'll find a wonderful dinner at one of San Juan Capistrano's numerous well-reviewed eateries no matter what time of day you visit.

• Stop by for a delicious meal at Ramos House Cafe for breakfast or lunch.
• Trevor's at the Tracks, a longtime neighborhood favorite, is located across the train tracks from the historic area. It's a well-known for its delicious salads and sandwiches.
• Sundried Tomato provides great pasta, salads, sandwiches, and burgers within walking distance of all of the city's historic sites. The locals highly recommend a happy hour.
• The Cedar Creek Inn, located across the street from the mission, is recognized for its warm and inviting atmosphere. The chicken papaya salad at Cedar Creek Inn is well-known.

Shops In San Juan Capistrano

The locally owned businesses providing unique gifts, home products, culinary items, and art will astound you as you wander the streets of San Juan Capistrano.

• The Cottage Gallery is likely to capture your eye as you wander around the historic area. Nest is nearby, and it's a fantastic place to go if you're searching for a unique present for a birthday or other special event.
• Ortega's Capistrano Trading Post is a great place to do souvenir shopping. This bright red store, located immediately across the street from the mission, is hard to miss.
• We Olive & Wine Bar provides California-made artisan wine, olive oils, vinegar, and tapenades. If you want to bring home gourmet food presents, this is the place to go.

Cities Near In San Juan Capistrano

• Laguna Beach, California
• Dana Point Harbor, California
• San Clemente, California
• Newport Beach, California
• Irvine, California

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top place's attractions to visit in San Jan Capistrano?

• Mission San Juan Capistrano
• Los Rios Historic District
• Zoomars at River Street Ranch
• Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano
• Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park

What is the list of outdoor activities in San Juan Capistrano?

• Zoomars at River Street Ranch
• Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park
• Los Rios Park
• Historic Town Center Park
• Veteran's Park

What are the best things to do in San Juan Capistrano for kids?

• Mission San Juan Capistrano
• Zoomars at River Street Ranch
• Los Rios Historic District

Your Destination Guide In San Juan Capistrano

When going on a San Juan Capistrano trip, driving your car is the most popular way. However, for a more fun weekend and unique nature adventure with your friends, why don't you discover to take the train. As soon as you exit the train, you will be in the historic quarter. Search all of the historical sites that are easily accessible by foot. Amtrak and Metrolink, a regional operator, both provide service. Whether you're traveling from San Diego or Los Angeles, there's a railway station close by that will take you to San Juan Capistrano. If you're arriving from a distance, this is also a good method to escape traffic.