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Julian Day Trip What To Do and See

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Julian Day Trip Fun Things To Do

Julian, a historic gold mining town, is 60 miles east of downtown San Diego in the mountains. Once a booming hub during California’s gold rush, this rustic but charismatic hidden gem retains much of those times’ charm and atmosphere.

Its shops range from tawdry tourists to small-town fixtures like hardware and drug stores, antique malls, book boutiques, and restaurants. Julian is a popular year-round day trip. Although the apples are the biggest draw to Julian regarding other fun, there is plenty to do.

Things to Do in Julian, California

Julian’s downtown district, which includes the main drag and several side streets, is an excellent place to start your day trip. Downtown is only about three blocks long and four blocks wide, making the town small enough to walk in its entirety in a single day easily. Most days, there is plenty of parking on the main street, but you might have to walk a few blocks during the apple harvest.

Julian Pie Company “The Best Apple Pie in Town”

Julian Pie Company is appropriately named for its specialty, apple pie, and this is no ordinary pie shop. It is a sweet oasis and includes a variety of pastry pleasures, including a Dutch apple with a crumb top, boysenberry apple crumb, natural strawberry apple, and apple rhubarb pies, to name a few. Julian Pie Company has two locations, Julian and Santa Ysabel. Website .

Apple Alley Bakery Fresh Pies

Apple Alley Bakery is a little mom-and-pop restaurant in Julian. They sell strudels, cookies, and cinnamon rolls along with fresh pies. Lunch is served from 11 am to 3 pm and consists of sandwiches, soups, salads, chili, and apple pie. They also have a lunch special with half a sandwich, soup or salad, and a pie slice. Address 2122 Main Street.

Mom’s Pie House Snack, Pastries, and Pies

It’s all about the pie at Mom’s Pie House in Julian. You can watch them preparing pies through the front window. Once you get inside, you will be greeted with racks of freshly baked pastries. Whole pies, a slice of pie, or pie with ice cream. They also serve lunch, coffee, apple cider, and soft drinks, but most people come for freshly baked pies. Located on Main Street, you can’t miss it. Website .

Julian Pioneer Museum Learn About the Town History

Discover the rich history of Julian, from its native American roots to the Gold Rush era. The museum is in the old blacksmith shop, brimming with a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia. Although the museum is small, the staff is an exceptionally knowledgeable team of volunteers who are experts in the region’s history.

Nickel Beer Company: A Wide Selection of Brew

We know you came to Julian for apples, but stop at the Nickel Beer Company if you love craft beer. Nickel features an exciting beer selection from light to dark, including seasonal Apple Pie Ale. Nothing fancy here, but if you’re in the mood for a beer, stop by the Nickel Beer Company.1485 Hollow Glen Road, 1/2 mile east of downtown Julian. Website .

Eagle And High Peak Mine Company Tour a Gold Mine

Offers mine tours where you go deep into an absolute gold mine. If you have claustrophobia, you may want to give this tour a pass and check out the small on-site museum while the adventurous in your group take the gold mine tour. Halfway through the tour, your mine guide will turn out the lights and let you experience pitch black inside a gold mine. The mine and museum are located at 2320 C Street, just outside town. Website .

Julian Mining Company – Kids Activities

Julian Mining Company is a fun stop if you have children on this trip. Activities include panning for real gold, a petting zoo, and berry, apple, and pumpkin picking, depending on the season. There is also a small gift shop with collectibles and candies. Apple Stand and cider pressing on site. Website . 4444 CA-78 next to Julian Station.

Julian Station Authentic Mexican Food

Julian Station makes a nice little stop while on a road trip to Julian. The Station features wine, beer, and hard cider tasting rooms and an exciting collection of antiques for sale. The Station is also the home of Mr. Manitas Taco Bar & Fruteria. Live Music most Sundays. 4470 Highway 78. Website .

Menghini Winery: The Oldest Winery in Julian

Menghini Winery is a family-owned boutique winery 3 miles north of downtown Julian in Volcan Mountain’s foothills. Surrounded by apple orchards and a six-acre vineyard, the winery produces approximately 4,000 cases of wine annually. 1150 Julian Orchards Drive. Website .

Julian U-Pick Apple Season August – October

During the fall, the apple crop is harvested, including a couple of u-pick apple farms where visitors can wander through the Orchard picking their own. Most apple orchards are open on weekends, and some are by reservation. Orchards get picked out quickly due to the popularity of this activity. Please check the Orchard’s websites (if they have one) for U-Pick information.

Apple Starr Orchards Seasonal U-Pick

U-Pick Organic Apples & Pears. Open mid to late August or until the apples are all gone. Picking is by the bag; about 12 pounds of apples fit into a bag for $25.00. No reservations are needed for U-Pick, but the trees are usually picked clean in just a few days. Address: 1020 Julian Orchard Drive, Julian. Website .

Calico Ranch and Cidery – Pick Your Own

This Orchard is on Highway 78 and was planted in the early 1930s. Calico is a family-owned 30-acre orchard and one of the few apple orchards in the Julian area still featuring pick-your-own fruit. Seasonal fruit stand with pre-picked apples and pears. 4200 Highway 78. Website .

Volcan Valley Farm – U-Pick

Volcan is the largest apple farm in Julian that offers apple picking. U-Pick apples are purchased by the bag, weighing about 6 to 8 pounds. Volcan also sells pies made with Fuji apples and hand-rolled crust. If you work up a thirst picking, the Orchard is between Menghini and Volcan Mountain Wineries. If anyone has apples, Volcan Valley will. 1.5 miles from downtown at 1284 Julian Orchards Drive.

Getting To Julian from San Diego

Directions: From Interstate 5 & 15, head east on Hwy. 78 past San Diego Zoo Safari Park, head past Ramona, then to Julian. Travel distance from downtown San Diego is about sixty miles, with a trip time of under two hours.

Southern California U-Pick Farms

Oak glen apple orchards, apple hill orchards northern california.

Golden Apple Bakery should be on this list of Julian stops.

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27 Things to Do in Julian on a Yummy San Diego Day Trip

We had all kinds of fun on adventures in and around San Diego during our seven years there, but there was one trip we’d make every year at the start of fall: Julian.

Julian, California, is Southern California’s answer to the flavors and fall scenery you’d expect on a trip out to New England .

There’s a lot of pie involved in Julian adventuring, but the mountain town is also full of history and surrounded by some excellent hiking for outdoorsy folks.

It’s a well-rounded destination. Hiking. Scenery. Pie. Let’s get into the best things to do in Julian on your next trip.

Quick Tips for Your Julian Visit

Your Flight:  Seek out deals to San Diego using  Skyscanner . Love deals? Subscribe to  Going .

Your Accommodations:  We lived in San Diego, but browse Booking.com  or Hotels.com  for some options. Vrbo is my Airbnb alternative.

Your Ride: You’ll need a car to get out there. Book a rental car ahead of time.

Top Spots: Hike at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, taste-test the apple pie, and sip on Julian Hard Cider.

Disclosure: Travel on the Reg uses affiliate links to keep things running around here . At no additional cost to you, I earn a lil’ commission if you make a purchase. Any income earned supports the upkeep of this site . I appreciate you!

1. Make room for pie at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is a great place to get the blood flowing on your day trip to Julian before you tackle Main Street and Julian proper.

We love the Stonewall Peak Trail, a fairly easy haul up until you get to the very end, where some scrambling up a rockscape is involved in avoidance of jamokes who didn’t learn the single-file line in elementary school. The entire trail is about four miles roundtrip and is rife with snakes.

Well, we didn’t actually see any snakes, but the pelt guy at the entrance said there were a bunch of them out there. It’s best to just say there are a bunch of snakes on this trail so no one complains to me about it later.

Hiking Cuyamaca Peak is a popular excursion if you’re looking for a more challenging trail. At just over 5.5 miles roundtrip, this is the second-highest peak in San Diego, offering a great view of the rest of the county at the top.

Note: For additional trails and day hike opportunities while you’re in the area, check out the  state park’s guide  to the area. 

2. Check out the views at the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve.

The Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve is another jewel in these parts with 2,900 acres of trails and viewpoints through a mixed conifer forest.

The most popular trail here is the five-mile trek to the summit: Volcan Mountain. Steep inclines make this one a moderate level of difficulty, so make sure you’re prepared with the right hiking gear on this one.

I brought Kimmy along on this one, which helped on the way up (she’s a puller) but didn’t help on the way down (she’s a puller).

It’s also very windy up there!

3. Explore the Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve.

The nearby Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserves offers 15 miles of trails on gentler loops than the other parks, making this one a great option if you’re traveling with kids.

You’ll be literally heading over the river and through the woods on some of these trails, which is quite charming.

Those looking for more of a challenge may want to try the West Vista Loop Trail, about 5.6 miles roundtrip through oak trees and wildflowers when the season’s right.

4. Row your boat on Lake Cuyamaca.

If you’d only like your day trip buddy to make some room for pie first and you’re fine with your own available tummy reserves, rent a little boat on Lake Cuyamaca.

Have them row you along until their arms give out or until they give up and turn the motor on if you got a little dingy with one of those attached. Doesn’t that just sound adorable?

5. Go apple picking.

If you’re into the you-pick-apples thing, there are places to do that, even here in Southern California. Try the Apple Starr Orchard or the  Volcan Valley Apple Farm , two popular and family-friendly options.

It’s just not something we usually go for on my Julian day trips from San Diego.

I can’t escape the feeling of, umm…this is someone’s actual job in most apple orchards, and we’re out there like, “This is so leeeeeeisurely and fun! Let’s do this thing in our free time that you do for crappy wages!” 

Fun fact: Saturday Night Live  had a hilarious take on it. Do check it out.

I won’t judge you if you want to get right into the pie, though.

6. Taste-test the best pie in Julian.

You’ll get all kinds of opinions on where the best pie is in Julian. The two main players are  Julian Pie Company  and  Mom’s .

There are others, but try those without recommendations from me on your Julian day trip because I haven’t had them, not because they’re bad.

Locals may tell you it’s all about this or that, but locals are notoriously saucy about their local things. Between the two big dogs, you’ll find lines at both if you slept in. Both are delicious and worth the wait as you prioritize your personal list of Julian activities.

Also, you probably came all this way for the pie, so what are you really going to do if not wait in line at this point?

We tend to do the Julian Pie Company because they don’t have apostrophe misuse on their signage and for their emphasis on all things cinnamon: cider donuts, donut holes if you’re there on the weekend, cinnamon ice cream, and cinnamon sauce.

Doesn’t that sound lovely?

If you’re allergic to cinnamon, there’s Soups & Such Cafe, where you can eat some soup or something.

Fun fact: Most recently, a friend of ours demanded anything BUT apple pie. He opted for a mixed-berry situation that I guess seemed fine but also a little bit anti-establishment.

Brian likes to sweeten his sweets as much as he can so he typically opts for additional whipped cream alongside his pie and a humongous scoop of ice cream.

READ MORE: Love to indulge? San Diego has some good Polish food. No, seriously. Read my guide!

7. Shop for tchotchkes on Main Street.

If you’re into tchotchke shops, there’s quite a bit of that at The Warm Hearth of Julian, The Old Julian Garage, and The Julian Candy Basket, home to hundreds of varieties of candies.

If you’re lucky while browsing, you’ll come across dirty hot sauces, decorative soaps, more soaps, wicker baskets, soaps, fringed tops, candy, and soaps. 

8. Buy all the jam at the Julian Cider Mill.

One stop I always make is to the  Julian Cider Mill  for some jam, baby. Boysenberry? Check. Gooseberry? Check. Also, what is that even??? Prickly pear? We got you. Jam. Jam. Jam.

They also sell all kinds of spicy nuts, taffies, dried fruits, and flavored honey. Many a dollar has been spent at the Julian Cider Mill.

9. Plan some charming tea time.

This is one of those hidden gems in Julian. Head to Julian Tea and Cottage Arts if an afternoon tea sounds delightful post-pie.

Just make sure to book a reservation ahead of time, as they can go all out with the finger sandwiches, scones, and assortment of teas depending on the experience you’re after.

10. Eat at the best restaurants in Julian.

I’m quite pleased to confirm that you can visit Julian without eating anything other than pie. It’s a thing I’ve pulled off on several occasions.

If you want something more “traditional” in terms of a “real” meal, you have options. Our favorite along those lines is the Julian Grille for classic cafe fare. They have a great outdoor patio for you to enjoy if it’s a nice day.

Here are a few more Julian restaurants for you to explore if the Julian Grill isn’t to your liking:

• Julian Cafe & Bakery : Enjoy Western-themed decor and more opportunities to shop local after your lunch at this popular cafe. You’ll find a variety of Julian souvenirs to peruse inside.
• Miner’s Diner: Relive old-fashioned soda shops of the good ol’ days or embrace those Riverdale vibes at this diner. If you have a sweet tooth undeterred by all the pie, their malts are pretty popular.
• Soups & Such Cafe : I already mentioned this one in jest, but it’s actually a popular lunch spot in town if you’re seeking comfort fare and, you guessed it, soup.

11. Sip on sangria at Blue Door Winery.

Are your dogs barkin’ from all the strolling? Julian has all kinds of cute stops that give off some relaxing vibes, especially if you’re interested in wine.

Start at the cute  Blue Door Winery  tucked into a mini-shopping area on B Street. It’s always a touch too warm for red wine when I’m visiting, so the chilled red sangria is my bag, best enjoyed on the Adirondack chairs outside or on the inner patio.

It’s also home to any manner of cute dogs, a bonus in my book.

READ MORE: Traveling with your pooch? Don’t miss out on San Diego’s best dog beaches.

If you like those wine times enough to seek out an option further afield, the Volcan Mountain Winery is a scenic stop at the foot of the Volcan Mountain. Their sparkling apple wine is the showstopper here if you’re lucky enough to visit when it’s not sold out.

12. Try Julian beer while you’re at it.

If you’re more into the local beer scene , Julian Beer Company offers decent drafts, pizza by the gigantic slice, and barbecue-type sandwiches. I’ve had their Reuben sandwich with thick-sliced pastrami and it’s pretty fantastic. Brian loves their cheesesteak.

The Nickel Beer Company is another option, just east of downtown Julian. They typically have over a dozen beers on tap for you to choose from, including a hybrid of beer and hard apple cider made of local Julian apples.

13. Finish off with cider at Julian Hard Cider.

Our last stop on the way back home is always  Julian Hard Cider , a couple of miles west of Main Street. The building it’s located in includes shops, a gallery, a food stop, and games that may or may not work.

Typically, we beeline for the cider, as I’m somewhat of a connoisseur.

Their original Harvest Apple flavor is always my fave. The others range from too sweet to resembling cough syrup. Sometimes there’s a random flavor guesting on their standby lists. You can order one of their flights or make your own for a couple of bucks per taster. 

14. Hike Cedar Creek Falls.

This San Diego waterfall hike is noted on map apps as being in Julian, but there are multiple approaches. The San Diego River Gorge Trail starts in Ramona. That’s the trail we chose on our hiking day.

You can also access this one along the Saddleback Trail, which is closer to Julian.

No matter how you get there, you’ll need a permit before you set out for your hiking adventure . This is a challenging hike in the Cleveland National Forest, and the authorities in charge just want you to know what you’re getting yourself into on this nearly six-mile trek.

It’s challenging. You will work for that waterfall. It’s also my favorite waterfall hike in San Diego, so it has that going for it.

15. Chase Three Sisters Falls, too.

The Three Sisters Falls Trail isn’t mind-blowing, but it’s one of the most popular hikes in and around San Diego for a reason.

Honestly, I’m not sure why. Cedar Creek Falls is a better hike and generally more impressive all around.

If you want to see what all the hype is about, make sure you’re ready for over four miles of decent elevation gain and some scrambling. Bring plenty of water and shoes with good traction . You don’t need a permit for this but do need to display an Adventure Pass on your vehicle to park at the trailhead.

Note: Visit in the winter or spring for the most action from the falls themselves. This isn’t a great summertime hike because of the heat and the lack of waterflow.

16. Go wine tasting in Ramona.

This activity idea isn’t in Julian, but if you happen to have a weekend in Julian, you can easily tack on some time in nearby Ramona.

Honestly, I hate when bloggers lead with stuff that isn’t in the town you’re investigating, but we’re getting to the bottom now. I also don’t want you to miss some hyper-local wine country.

It’s just a half-hour drive to incredible scenery and delicious wine with vibes that are casual even for Southern California.

We spent a full week in Ramona on a recent trip back to San Diego , and I was so impressed by the friendly atmosphere of this underrated wine country that it’ll be in my regular rotation now along with Temecula .

Chuparosa Vineyards was our favorite thanks to their Albariño.

17. Book some goat yoga at Blackledge Farms.

On the topic of Ramona, there is a bucket list experience here that has nothing to do with wine. It doesn’t have anything to do with pie, either.

I’m talking about goats, people. If you love them as much as I do, you’ll want to book a goat yoga session at Blackledge Farms . Just be warned that you’ll be forever changed after your experience. That’s how great this is.

Don’t believe me? Read about my experience with Ramona’s best goat yoga .

More Things to Do in Julian

We’ve visited Julian a bunch of times, but it’s usually with a main mission in mind: Eat all of the pie. That means there are still some things we haven’t done on trips to the mountain town.

Here are a few more Julian things to do, especially if you’re into exploring the Julian mines:

• Pan for gold on a tour with the  Eagle Mining Co.  at the Eagle and High Peak Mine. Gold was what brought people to Julian in the first place during the 1800s.
• Want to try your luck at another mine? Visit the Julian Mining Company , too. I’d suggest avoiding weekdays during the school year on this one. It’s a popular field trip destination.
• Visit the Julian Pioneer Museum for local history and artifacts from the town’s storied past. This is a great option if you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Julian.
• The nearby Julian Pioneer Cemetery is also worth a stop for its historical value to San Diego and creepy pet section.
• Hit up the  California Wolf Center , a conservation and research site dedicated to the protection and re-establishment of wild wolf packs. The North American gray wolf and Mexican gray wolf are both represented.
• Attend the Julian Apple Days Festival , a two-day event usually held in September as a celebration of the fall season and all things apple.
• The Taste of Julian is a summer festival to show off a more diverse array of foods outside of the apple-based ones.
• Looking for things to do in Julian in winter? The Country Christmas is just what you’d expect around here and includes tree lightings, sweet treats, and the potential for snow that you won’t get in San Diego.
• Camp at William Heise County Park . The park offers not only a number of trails here — you’ll have access to 11 miles of hiking on your visit — but also the most popular campgrounds in the area.
• If you’re already visiting Ramona for that wine I told you about, visit the Oasis Camel Dairy while you’re there. The family farm is focused on camel milk (it’s a thing!) and camel encounters.

Julian Travel FAQs

What is julian, ca, known for.

Julian is best known for its delicious apple pie and mining history. For San Diego locals , the surrounding area is known for its hiking opportunities. You’ll have access to all kinds of outdoor adventures while you’re here.

Does Julian, California, have snow?

Julian does have snow. Expect possible snow from November through February, sometimes even well into the spring, up in Julian. You’re at over 4,000 feet of elevation here.

Do I need snow chains to go to Julian?

You do need snow chains to go to Julian if you’re heading up to the mountain town in the winter months. Chains are required during the winter months at nearby Palomar Mountain, too.

Don’t assume that because you’re from the Midwest — that’s me! — you’re good to go. There are periodic checks up the mountain to make sure you’re prepared.

When is the best time to visit Julian?

The best time to visit Julian is in the fall. There’s a good reason for that. It’s apple time.

I usually tell people to go places during less busy times, but I just can’t do that here. Fall opens up a world of possibilities and allows you to try more varieties of apples grown right here in Julian.

Can I bring my dog to Julian?

You can bring your dog to Julian. There are quite a few dog-friendly patios in Julian, like the Blue Door Winery. If your dog loves to hike, most of the trails around here are fine for leashed pets. Just make sure that you bring plenty of extra water no matter when you visit.

Best Hotels in Julian

As we’ve lived in San Diego , we visited the best of what to do in Julian on easy day trips from our home in North Park near Balboa Park . There are pretty adorable accommodation options in and around the mountain town if you’d like to stay awhile, though.

Browse the map for the best hotels in Julian and more apartment-style accommodations:

Is Julian worth visiting?

Julian is worth visiting for more than the apple pie. Yes, the apple scene is delicious, but Julian is also a great base for hiking the Cuyamaca mountains and exploring the town’s historical side.

The Julian Historic District is a California Historical Landmark thanks to the role it played as a California Gold Rush town.

During its height, Julian’s population rivaled that of San Diego’s first neighborhoods like Old Town and harborside Little Italy . People wanted to strike it rich, so they set up temporary housing in town to try their luck. Julian was also home to much of the county’s Black population back in the day.

I know I kept returning to Julian for a reason. It’s fun, easy to find free things to do, and delicious to boot.

Staying in San Diego for a while? Check out these posts:

• A Detailed Guide to Carlsbad Day Trips
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Read more about my favorite San Diego neighborhoods:

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Agnes Groonwald

The Top 10 Things to Do in Julian, California

Julian, California first drew the attention of gold miners in the late 1800s, with people flocking to the area hoping to make their fortunes in the gold mines. Not much has changed since that short-lived gold rush, and today's Julian continues to exude small-town charm and country friendliness. Located 60 miles northeast of San Diego, the town makes for a great day trip from America's Finest City . Its 4,200-foot-high location in the Laguna Mountains gives it a climate that's unusual in sunny Southern California, with four distinct seasons prime for apple picking in the fall and hiking in the summer. Read on to discover the top things to do in Julian.

Search for the Milky Way

One of the only places in the U.S. where you can see the Milky Way, Julian was officially accredited as an International Dark Sky Community by the International Dark-Sky Association in May 2021 —the second in California to earn this recognition. Stargazers from all over flock here to marvel at the spiral galaxy, which can be enjoyed in and around town, including at Lake Cuyamaca and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. For astronomy buffs, consider planning a trip to Palomar Observatory for a guided daytime tour, or during late summer for the annual Julian StarFest .

Learn About the California Gold Rush

Explore the history of Southern California's Mother Lode, that short-lived gold rush of 1869. Tours at the Eagle Mining Company will show you the underground operations and the gold milling process. View the antique gold mining equipment on display, or pretend to be a miner for a day as you pan for gold. You can also indulge your inner treasure-seeker at Julian Mining Company , where gem sluicing and gold panning are popular activities. Come during late spring for Gold Rush Days , when you can step back in time during historical encampments, reenactments, and demonstrations.

Sample Local Apples

Julian is at its most charming (and therefore busiest) during the fall when the leaves change color, and local apples ripen. In September and October, you can stop by an apple orchard to sample local varieties not found elsewhere, buy some of your favorites, or pick your own. In late September, the Julian Apple Days Festival attracts visitors from throughout the state with wine tastings, games, and activities. But even if you travel to the town outside of apple season, be sure to stop by Julian Pie Company or Julian Cafe and Bakery for a slice of apple pie—with a generous scoop of ice cream, of course.

Summit Mountain Peaks at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

With more than 100 miles of trails, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is a hiker's dream. There are several ways to reach the top of Cuyamaca Peak, the second tallest point in San Diego County at 6,512 feet. The most popular method is to take the Azalea Trail up and the Lookout Fire Road down. Totaling 7.7 miles, the trek is worth the effort; from the summit, you'll get a sweeping view of the surrounding area, including the San Diego River basin and Mexico to the south. Stonewall Peak also boasts stunning views of Anza Borrego, the Laguna Mountains, and occasionally the Salton Sea. It's best reached by taking the 3.9-mile, out-and-back Stonewall Peak Trail, which is rated as moderately difficult due to the number of switchbacks. The park also has two campgrounds, Paso Picacho and Green Valley, and a visitors center.

Visit the California Wolf Center

The only wolf reserve in San Diego County, the California Wolf Center serves to safely return wolves in the U.S. to their natural habitat. You can visit the center's conservation facility by booking a one-hour guided tour with an expert, who will introduce you to the center's resident wolves: a North American gray wolf pack and a Mexican gray wolf pack. The Wolf Conservation Tour offers insight into North America's wolf conservation efforts, while the Behavioral Enrichment Tour gives visitors a chance to observe the wolves and learn more about their behavior and family structure; public and private tours are available for both options. At the visitor center in downtown Julian, there are a number of exhibits on wolf biology and ecology, as well as education programs and a nature store.

Hike the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve

This 2,900-acre nature preserve features mixed conifer forests and coastal and desert landscape. The most popular hike, the Volcan Mountain Trail, is a 4.9-mile, out-and-back trek that takes you up the summit of the mountain. With just over 1,200 feet of elevation gain, the trail is rated as moderately difficult, but worth it for the views at the top. For a shorter hike, the Five Oaks Trail is a 2.8-mile, out-and-back trail that's loved for its beautiful scenery and great birding. If you want, you can combine this trek with the Volcan Mountain Trail; note that locals recommend taking the Five Oaks Trail on your way up because it's less steep.

Sip Local Wine

Volcan Mountain Winery / Facebook

If you've never had apple wine before, make a beeline to Volcan Mountain Winery , located 2 miles from downtown Julian. They grow more than 20 varieties of apples here, which are then used to make a number of tasty wines, including a sparkling Pomme D'Amour, a Pommier port-style dessert wine, and the award-winning Dolcezza. You can sample these wines, along with other local reds and whites, in either the tasting room or on the patio, situated at the base of Volcan Mountain. Meanwhile, San Diego's Blue Door Winery has a Julian outpost, where they serve up their red, mostly natural, varietals by the glass and bottle. Be sure to swing by their tasting room for their house-made sangria.

Go Fish at Lake Cuyamaca

Located at 4,620 feet above sea level, the 110-acre Lake Cuyamaca is a prime destination for anglers. As the water stays cool all four seasons, the reservoir is able to house the only year-round trout fishery in San Diego County, and in fact stocks some 45,000 pounds of rainbow trout any given year. Bass, too, is common, as are bluegill, crappie, catfish, and sturgeon. Note that you must have both a valid Lake Cuyamaca fishing permit and a California State Fishing License; state licenses can be purchased online or at the lake's tackle shop.

Tour the Julian Pioneer Museum

The Julian Pioneer Museum features a collection of historical artifacts dating all the way back to 1869, a year before the town was founded, to the beginning of the 21st century. Located inside a circa 1890 building, it houses everything from mining equipment and Victorian-era pianos to vintage clothing and an original Julian City buggy and sleigh. As the museum is run by volunteers, be sure to call ahead to confirm that it's open.

Take a Walking Tour

Pick up a map for a self-guided tour, or simply walk around: Julian's historic center is easy to explore on foot. Pop into the Julian Gold Rush Hotel , a national historic landmark that dates back to 1890, before browsing the antique stores and local craft shops lining Main Street. Check out Julian Arts Guild Gallery , which highlights oil paintings, jewelry, photography, and more from local artists. At Julian Station , you can sample local hard cider, made from a 352-year-old recipe, and on certain nights of the week, kick back and listen to live music.

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16 Of The Most Fun Things To Do In Julian, California

March 16, 2024 By: Maria Haase This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through our links.

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Julian, the beloved Mountain town in the Cuyamaca Mountains near San Diego, is one of our favorite getaways. We love to go hiking there, antique shopping, apple picking and of course, have to eat apple pie every time we visit. Known for apple orchards, scenic beauty, and a charming downtown area, this is the perfect California getaway.

Planning a trip and wondering what to do in Julian? While the town is famous for all things apple, there’s lots more to uncover here.

Read on for the top things to do in Julian, California.

Top Things To Do In Julian, California

Check out the california wolf center.

Read our full article about our visit to the California Wolf Center here>>

An amazing experience for animal lovers is the California Wolf Center . The center gives visitors a chance to learn more about wild wolves and meet these fascinating creatures.

The visitor center is located in downtown Julian, CA and educates visitors about how the wolves live, their history, and conservation in place for their protection. There’s also a gift shop on-site featuring unique souvenirs.

For those hoping to see the wolves, you can choose from several tour options. With an expert guide, you’ll learn about and encounter these incredible endangered animals.

Be sure to book your tour in advance to ensure availability. Each tour runs about 1 hour.

Indulge In Some Apple Pie

Julian is famously surrounded by apple orchards and has a wide array of apple varieties to choose from, some of which aren’t found anywhere else. 

Naturally, the plentiful supply of apples means delicious pies in cafes and restaurants throughout town, yum!

There are so many wonderful spots for your apple pie fix. You’ll probably find yourself eating this classic dessert numerous times during your stay.

Some of the best-loved eateries for apple pie in Julian include Mom’s Pies, Apple Alley Bakery, and Julian Pie Company. The latter of which has been serving up a large selection of pies and apple cider donuts since 1989.

For more, be sure to check out The Best Apple Pies In Julian .

Take Part In An Apple Cider Tasting

Wash down your apple pie with a refreshing apple cider at one of the town’s many tasting experiences. An unmissable activity during your stay in Julian, there are several fantastic apple cider tastings in the area for your enjoyment. 

Julian Hard Cider is one of the area’s best-known exports, and you can sample up to 12 of their varieties at Julian Station. Tasting their traditional cider is a must, but don’t shy away from alternatives which combine apples with blackberries, raspberries, and cherries. The flavors are very refreshing.

Located just out of downtown, the Storum Ranch is a favorite amongst cider lovers. Here you’ll find a selection of ciders made from apples picked right from their own orchard. 

Go Back In Time At The Julian Pioneer Museum

At the Julian Pioneer Museum, gain insight into what Julian was like during the 19th and 20th centuries, back when the area was a famous mining town.

The museum is located inside a charming home from the 1800s. Inside you’ll find photographs, mining tools, gold artifacts, and vintage clothing. It’s also home to one of California’s finest lace collections.

Many Native Americans lived in the area before Europeans arrived, and the museum also houses an extensive collection of American Indian artifacts.

An afternoon at the Julian Pioneer Museum is a must for first-time visitors. Especially history buffs seeking to understand the town’s past and how the area has changed over the years.

Go Antique Shopping

In a former gold mining town packed with history, it’s no surprise to find several antique stores in the area.

Whether you’re a keen collector or seeking vintage trinkets for the home, antique shopping is a great way to spend a leisurely afternoon in Julian. All this while learn more about San Diego County in times gone by.

Some of Julian’s finest antique stores include the beautiful Oakwood Creek, Wynola Junction, Santa Ysabel General Store, and Oak & Olive.

For lovers of retro home decor, you won’t want to miss The Barn Vintage Marketplace and the Heartland Vestige Home Decor. Both are brimming with unique pieces to add character to your home.

Spend A Day Wine Tasting

While Julian is best known for its cider, the town also has some incredible wineries. There are several unique wine-tasting experiences on offer in Julian.

Here are some of our favorites for wine connoisseurs:

• Storum Ranch – We’ve already told you about their ciders, but did we mention they also have fabulous wines made from San Diego grapes too?
• Volcan Mountain Winery – Just a few miles outside the center of Julian lies a winery where you can spend an afternoon sampling with Volcan Mountain as your backdrop.
• Julian Wine & Chocolate – Wine lovers with a sweet tooth will be in heaven at this amazing spot. Offering wine from high-elevation vineyards and chocolate made in San Diego, a tasting experience here is difficult to beat.

Enjoy The Great Outdoors And Go On A Picturesque Hike

With enviable vistas and trails for all fitness levels, Julian’s hiking scene is not to be missed. 

Those looking for an easy to moderate hike, check out the West Vista Loop Trail or Canyon Oak and Desert View Loop. More adventurous hikers will enjoy the Three Sisters Falls Trail or the hike to Cuyamaca Peak, San Diego’s second-highest peak.

Perhaps one of the area’s best-known hikes is the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve Trail. This moderate to difficult trail is just under 5 miles roundtrip and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours for completion. Providing beautiful views of Julian on one side, and a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean on the other, this is a popular trail enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Rivaling the Volcan Mountain hike is the iconic Eagle Rock Trail. Situated along the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, this moderate hike is just over 6 miles roundtrip and takes most just under 3 hours. You’ll be greeted with an awe-inspiring eagle-shaped rock formation which gives the trail its name.

Of course, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is always a great spot for a day outdoors as well.

Explore The Orchards And Do Some Apple Picking

When vacationing in Julian, you’re more than likely find yourself with a collection of apples as your souvenir. With so many orchards and varieties to choose from, you’ll have your pick of apples to bring home.

Apple picking is one of the top things to do in Julian, California during fall, thanks to perfect conditions.

In addition to apple picking, many orchards offer tours and seasonal events. All making your trip to the orchard a great option for a unique day trip from San Diego. 

Some orchards worth adding to your itinerary include:

• Peacefield Orchard
• Julian Mining Company
• Volcan Valley Apple Farm
• Calico Ranch & Cidery
• Julian Farm & Orchard

Take a look at each orchard’s website for opening dates and times before your visit.

Spend Time With Camels At The Oasis Camel Dairy

Less than 20 minutes from downtown Julian lies the Oasis Camel Dairy & Foundation , an amazing day out for the family. Spend time feeding the camels, listening to cheeky talking parrots, and even taking a camel ride.

Group and private tours are available, with group tours priced at $15. There’s an extra fee for camel rides, which you can purchase in advance or on the day of your visit.

The tours generally run on select Saturdays and Sundays from 12 – 2 pm, so check the website for more information. Tickets must be purchased online beforehand. 

Drive To Anza Borrego Desert State Park

A visit to California’s largest state park, the Anza Borrego Desert State Park, is a must when visiting Julian.

Explore the area for a day, spend a night or two in one of Borrego Springs’ hotels, or really get in touch with nature and camp out under the stars. 

This park has over 100 miles of trails, so there’s countless hikes to choose from. Some highlights include hiking to Borrego Palm Canyon, exploring slot canyons, Julian Wind Caves, and the challenging Hellhole Canyon Trail. The latter of which takes you to two waterfalls and a palm oasis.

If time is on your side, consider adding Galleta Meadow Statues, Clark Dry Lake, or the Pumpkin Patch to your itinerary. The statues are always such a cool spot, especially for photography lovers. It is a thrill to drive down the desert roads and “hunt” the statues.

Pay A Visit To The William Heise County Park

Julian is famed for its picturesque location in the mountains, and many people come here simply to relax and reconnect with nature; William Heise County Park is the perfect place to do just that.

Wander through the forest filled with oak and cedar trees. The park has many hiking trails, such as the Desert View Loop Trail, William Heise Desert View, and Canyon Oak Loop Trail.

The park offers a selection of cabins to choose from, as well as 100+ campsites to suit those traveling in RVs or tent camping. There are hot showers, playgrounds, and picnic grounds throughout the park. 

Delve Into Julian’s History At The Julian Mining Company

No trip to Julian would be complete without stopping by the Julian Mining Company . Popular with all age groups, visitors can spend an afternoon panning for gold in waist-high wooden troughs.

Gem mining is also available on-site, where guests can sluice bags of gems using screens and water to reveal stunning gemstones.

Julian Mining Company is typically only open on weekends. They offers packages at very reasonable prices, with gold mining starting at just $7 for children and $9 for adults. 

A visit here gives guests an engaging insight into the town’s past, and what it’s been through over the years.

Treat Yourself To Afternoon Tea

Take a break from your busy sightseeing itinerary and relax at one of Julian’s afternoon tea spots. Stop in at Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, one of Julian’s most charming tea rooms, for an afternoon filled with warm tea and delicious sweet delicacies.

When you’re finished sampling teas and treats, be sure to take a look around the store. You’ll find a wide selection of goods and gifts, such as fabulous china, porcelain, and cast iron teapots. Not to mention, a huge variety of teas, cookbooks, gourmet food, and kitchen linens.

We advise you to make a reservation beforehand to avoid disappointment.

Be Mesmerized By The Stars

Make the most of your time outside the city and visit one of the two San Diego stargazing observatories. Julian is one of only two California destinations accredited by the International Night Sky Association. A night under the stars here simply cannot be missed! 

Some of the best stargazing observatories in Julian include:

• Borrego Night Sky Tours
• Palomar Observatory
• Mount Laguna Observatory
• Julian’s Annual StarFest – A festival that takes place each August.

If visiting an observatory doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of opportunities to see the incredible night sky throughout the area. Consider stargazing from William Heise County Park or Lake Cuyamaca.

Go On An Adventure At The Eagle Mining Company

Take the opportunity to explore an old-style gold mine with the Eagle Mining Company . Visitors can experience what a typical day was like for miners in the 1870s via one hour tours throughout the week.

Once an active mine, the tunnels you’ll visit during this tour have been restored to provide guests an immersive experience. The tour is filled with fascinating information about the history of Julian’s mining industry.

There’s no need to book ahead of time, you can buy day of, adult tickets are $15.

Explore Some Of Julian’s Delicious Dining Options

A trip to any new destination must include indulging in local restaurants. Luckily, Julian has more than enough to satisfy your hunger.

Those looking for a chilled-out atmosphere will love Julian Beer Company for its mouth-watering BBQ and on-site brewery. While those who prefer more of an al-fresco dining experience will enjoy the gorgeous outdoor seating area at Julian Grille. 

Other well-loved spots in Julian include Miner’s Diner for old-school eats and shakes served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Or try out dishes prepared with locally grown ingredients at Jeremy’s On The Hill.

As you can see, there’s a huge variety of things to do in Julian, CA.

This romantic and enchanting mountain town is sure to keep you coming back time and time again. If you live in the San Diego area or are planning a visit, Julian must be on your list. 

Last Updated on March 16, 2024 by Maria Haase

About Maria Haase

Maria Haase has been a travel writer since 2007, stumbling into this profession during an internship in China. She grew up in Germany, but has lived in San Diego since 2006. Maria is a globetrotter, but also adores to explore her own back yard whenever she is home. She loves to share her favorite spots, help visitors plan their trips and share helpful tips about her chosen hometown San Diego.

Reader Interactions

September 23, 2023 at 7:30 am

Don’t forget horseback riding! That’s what we do every time we go to Julian. Integrity Stables is right outside of town and they give a great local experience with super nice people and great horses.

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How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Julian, CA (Full Itinerary)

Julian, California, is a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains, where time seems to slow down, and fall colors create a magnificent backdrop. It’s an excellent destination for a weekend getaway, filled with charming small-town vibes, crisp autumn air, and mouthwatering apple pies. So grab your hiking boots, pack your flannel shirts, and let me take you on a thrilling 2-day adventure through Julian! If you want to see all of this in video form, here is a video of the journey.

Morning: Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast at Miner’s Diner. Step back in time as you enter this 1950s-style diner with jukebox tunes and vintage decor. This spot has all the diner breakfast options you would expect and is fun for the whole family. Be sure to head downstairs to the candy mine after your meal.

After fueling up, grab your hiking boots and head to one of the local parks. With young children, we recommend Inaja Memorial Park. This trail is only a half-mile round trip, and it leads up to a hill with beautiful views. With older kids, head to Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. You can find many trails with breathtaking panoramic views of rolling hills, pine forests, and golden meadows here.

Afternoon: After working up an appetite during your hike, head into town for a delightful lunch at Julian Beer Company. This place has great pizza and BBQ, many places to sit, and is right next to the Julian Pie Company for dessert.

After lunch, you should dive into what Julian is known for: apple pie. I recommend heading to Moms or Julian Pie Company to try a slice. I can only imagine you will leave the city bringing some home; it is that good.

Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, it’s time to embark on a thrilling gold mine tour at Eagle Mine Company. Join a knowledgeable guide and journey deep into the depths of the earth, learning about the rich history of the area’s gold rush. The tour takes about an hour, and you can even pan for gold there.

Evening: If you are still up for adventure, end your day in Julian with a magical experience at the California Wolf Center. This awe-inspiring sanctuary is dedicated to preserving wolves and offers guided tours to learn about these majestic creatures up close. Be sure to book a tour in advance, as they often fill up.

If you want to spend the night in the city, then I recommend retreating to a charming bed and breakfast for a comfortable night’s sleep. There are a few right in downtown Julian. Or you can grab an AirBnb for a nice cabin in the surrounding area.

Morning: Start your second day off with a stroll through the charming downtown area of Julian. As you wander along the historic Main Street, step into quaint shops selling antiques, local crafts, and more delicious apple pies. There are many great breakfast places, including Julian Cafe, Purple Owl Cage, and even Kali’s Garden Cafe.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, head over to Wynola, which is about 5 minutes from Julian. If you are traveling with kids and it is open, head to Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures. This place is a paradise for children with mazes, things you can climb, reptile shows, and more. If it is closed, you can head to Julian Farm and Orchard to pick apples or take a hay ride to the petting zoo. Be sure to check both of these are open before going though.

Evening: As the sun sets, go to Julian Station, a rustic marketplace where you can indulge in local flavors. Within a short drive, you can have a flight of handcrafted ciders at the Julian CiderWorks or sample delicious wines at the Menghini Winery. Pair your drinks with delectable bites from the various food vendors, or even go for a classic wood-fired pizza at Heros. Plus, they often have live music at Heros on the weekends.

Julian, California, is truly a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Its charming small-town vibes, breathtaking nature, and mouthwatering apple pies make it the perfect destination for a fall weekend getaway. Be sure to let me know what I left off in the comments!

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A Quick & Fun Day Trip to Julian from San Diego, California

Have you been to Julian in San Diego County, Southern California? Julian is worth the visit as it’s a former gold mining town and is a fun, short getaway place to visit as a day trip from San Diego. 

The history goes that the original settlers of Julian were three brothers, Drury, Frank, and J.O. Bailey, and the cousins, Mike and Webb Julian. They were on the way from San Bernadino to Arizona and loved the beauty of the area. According to Drury Bailey, the town was named after Mike Julian, a former Confederate soldier and was the more handsome one of the group. quickly boomed after finding gold in 1869-1870. Eventually, the gold rush stopped in this area after 1906 and people continued to live in the town.  

Currently, this California historical landmark is a fantastic place to spend a few hours and explore the old town . It’s a bit touristy, yet this place is great for those who enjoy wandering through historical buildings and eating apple pies . You heard that right – apple pies! There are a few shops that sell this sweet and decadent dessert. 

After returning to California from Vietnam for a few months , we took a road trip to San Diego over the Labor Day weekend to visit friends. Justin’s sister used to live in San Diego as she went to university there and recommended this town as a good place to explore. After hearing about the yummy pies, we had to do this Julian day trip and see what the hype was about for ourselves. 

Since we’ve piqued your interest, continue reading more about how to spend your day in Julian, California, and what to do here. 

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

How to Get to Julian from San Diego

San Diego is the closest major city to Julian and it takes over 1 hour to drive there. You can easily add this spot to any San Diego itinerary or SoCal road trip. 

From Downtown San Diego to Julian, it’ll take 1 hour 13 minutes to travel 62 miles by car. There are a few ways to get there:

• From I-5 South to CA-94 East and I-8 East to CA-79 North . Click here to see the directions in Google Maps.
• From I-5 South to CA-163 North to CA-67 North to CA-78 East . Click here to see in Google Maps.
• From I-5 South to CA-94 East to CA-67 North to CA-78 East . Click here to see the directions in Google Maps.

** Heads up – The roads are windy so you may need to take motion sickness medication if you’re sensitive to curvy roads. 

Follow one of these routes when traveling from Downtown San Diego to Julian. Credit: Map data: Google

How Long Do You Need to Visit Julian?

This is a very small town as the main area is about four blocks long. You would need a few hours or stay here for up to half a day if you take your time to dine and browse through the shops. Most of the shops are along Main Street. 

A full day in Julian is possible if you decide to add a hike or two to the itinerary. We’ll share more hiking opportunities below. 

You have to visit Julian to try the homemade apple pie and cider! Photo credit: Teresa Devenney via Scopio Photos

Top Things to Do in Julian for a Day Trip

1. eat apple pie.  .

Julian’s apple season is from August to December. Since there are lots of apple orchards in the area so it’s recommended to stop by two popular pie shops – Julian Pie Company or Mom’s Pie House – to try a slice of apple pie. There are other flavors if you don’t like apple pie, such as strawberry rhubarb, pecan, blueberry, cherry, and more (all based on availability).

We tried the Dutch apple pie from Julian Pie Company as this place was recommended by a resident. The pie was oh so delicious and not too sweet. The crunch from the crust crumbles and the burst of cinnamon and other spices in the pie slice was heavenly. Top the pie with whipped cream and/or ice cream for a more decadent experience. 

Expect to pay $4.75 for a slice of pie and add $2.25 for two scoops of vanilla ice cream and another $2.25 for whipped cream. 

Trying apple pie on your Julian day trip is a must-do activity!

At the Julian Pie Company, you can pick one up in the refrigerated section and bake it at home. 

Or, you can pick up a baked whole pie at both Julian Pie Company and Mom’s Pie House to take home. 

As a heads up, the shops in Julian are busy and packed with visitors waiting in line and/or dining inside. Both of these places have locations outside of Julian which will have fewer people. 

Locations: 

Julian Pie Company:

• 2225 Main Street, Julian, CA 92036
• 21976 Highway 79, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070

Mom’s Pie House: 

• 2119 Main Street Julian California 92036
• 4510 Highway 78 Julian California 92036

2. Drink apple cider. 

If you prefer to drink apple juice, try the apple cider here. There is hard cider available for those who need some alcohol. 

Along the way to Julian, there are a few souvenir and gift shops selling apple cider so you can bring it hope. You can also buy apple cider in a large bottle at Julian Pie Company or at several of the smaller shops around Main Street. 

3. Go on a mining tour. 

One of the coolest experiences in Julian to go on is a mining tour. It’s an opportunity to get some inside scoop on how life was like during the mining era and get to go inside an underground mining cave.

We went on a tour at Eagle Mining Company and it was a highlight of our day trip here. The 1-hour tour covered three areas:

1) History of the town and the mining boom. 

2) Tour of an actual underground mining cave.

3) Panning for gold. 

The tour is children-friendly as we had a handful of children attend. Plus, the tour guides engage with the children to get them excited about gold. Don’t worry, there are plenty of fun facts for the adults too.   

If it’s a hot day in Julian, you’ll appreciate going through the mining cave as it’s about 20 degrees cooler than outside. There is some stair climbing up to an upper level of the cave , so it’s just a heads up for those who have knee or leg problems. 

We loved the part about panning for gold. It’s not easy to find gold as it requires some patience. You grab a rubber bowl, dig some dirt and sand, and swirl the water into the bowl to slowly remove the sand and sediments from the bowl. You’ll eventually see flecks of gold! 

We’ll strike it rich panning for gold!

Do you get to keep the gold? Unfortunately, not since it’s an educational activity. But, you can buy flecks of gold in the souvenir shop for $10. 

Address : 2320 C St, Julian, CA 92036

Admission : $15 Adults, $8 Children Ages 5-11, and $1 Children Under 4 years. Cash preferred, otherwise, there is a $1 fee for using credit cards. Reservations are not needed in advance. 

4. Take a self-walking tour of Julian. 

Want to explore Julian and the historical buildings at your own pace? Check out this DIY self-walking tour courtesy of the Julian town. Download your free copy here . 

You’ll start at the Julian Town Hall and end up at the Pioneer Cemetery . Julian Town Hall is also a Visitor Center so you can walk inside to ask questions about the area. 

There are 27 other spots to visit and they’re highlighted on the second page of the download with the map of the area. Luckily, the majority are located in the main town area and within walking distance. There are two spots (#25 and #26 on the map) that will require a short drive up the road. 

5. Take a Wolf Tour at a Conservation Facility.

We walked into California’s Wolf Center Nature Store thinking that it was only a souvenir shop. Yet, the volunteer mentioned that there are guided wolf tours available to see endangered wolves at a nearby conservation facility. 

There are two tours available – Wolf Conservation and Behavioral Enrichment. They cost between $30-$45 per person and are available from Fridays to Mondays. Book a tour here.

We didn’t have a chance to sign up for a tour but would be interested in seeing them on a return trip. 

The souvenir shop has adorable gifts to purchase from children’s clothes to books to stuffed animals. All purchases go directly to the nonprofit organization and the cause. They also show a 15 minute documentary on wolves. 

Address: 2775 B St, Julian, CA 92036

6. Go hiking in Julian.

There are a few hiking trails to have a full-day trip in Julian. We didn’t have a chance to go on a hike yet this will be on the to-do list when we return. Check out the following hiking spots. 

**As a reminder, please remember to wear the appropriate clothing and pack enough water and snacks for your journey.

• Cuyamaca Rancho State Park has a handful of trails ranging from easy to strenuous depending on your hiking fitness level. The state park is South of Julian along Highway 79 and is about 16 miles away. 
• Chamber Park at Lake Cuyamaca is known as a campground and there is an easy 3.5 miles roundtrip trail. This place is 9 miles from the main Julian town and is along Highway 79. You can stop by Chamber Park before continuing to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. 
• Volcan Mountain Preserve has 2,900 acres of forest and has a moderate 5-mile round trip hike. To get to the hiking trail, it’s a 2.4-mile drive north of the main town area along Farmer Road. 
• Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve is 4,600 acres and has 15 hiking trails to check out. There are several areas (either in Julian or Santa Ysabel) to start the hiking trails so you can check out the website for more information. 
• William Heise County Park is a 929-acre park that is 4,200 feet above sea level. There are 11 miles of hiking trails to wander through. To get here, you’ll need to travel 5 miles south of main Julian town. 

7. Stop by Julian for the special events. 

Depending on your visit, you can schedule a trip around a few memorable events in the area: 

• Julian Gold Rush Days is a 2-day weekend event that takes place in April and has exciting activities for the family. You can pan for gold, make candles using traditional methods, practice ax throwing, see Civil Wars re-enactments, and more. The cost is $5 for adults (over 16 years old).
• Julian Grape Stomping Festa takes place in September and is catered to the adults as it’s an opportunity to stomp grapes using your bare feet. In 2021, the event took place at the Menghini Winery. Admission cost is $20 which includes a wine glass, entertainment, and grape stomping. 

Where to Stay in Julian

Since Julian is a short drive from San Diego and the surrounding areas, many people do not stay overnight here. We can imagine the town being super quiet after 6:00pm. 

If you plan to stay overnight in Julian, there are a few places to stay based on the high reviews. 

Click here to check the current availability of all of the places to stay in Julian. 

• Julian Gold Rush Hotel – This quaint hotel is in the heart of Julian town. The rooms have a homey, historical look. Everyone raves about the delicious breakfast. Prices start at $115 for one night for 2 person occupancy. Book a spot at Julian Gold Rush Hotel here.  
• Julian Lodge – This place is only a few blocks away from Main Street and has modern facilities and amenities. Prices start at $179 per night for 2 person occupancy. Reserve your room at Julian Lodge here.  
• Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat & Spa  – If you want some quiet time and have a view of the lake nearby, then stay at this place. Visitors love the amenities at this place such as playing billiards, meditation room, spa, and jacuzzi. The location is a 15-minute drive away from the main town. Prices start at $160 for one night for 2 person occupancy. Reserve your room at Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge here.
• Apple Tree Inn – This motel is along Highway 78 so it’s not in the heart of the Julian town. Regardless, the rooms are larger and a studio room includes a kitchen. Prices start at $115 for one night for 2 person occupancy. Book a spot at Julian Gold Rush Hotel here.   

Final Thoughts

Who wants to visit Julian now? We hope you have a chance to spend a few hours away from San Diego to explore a new place and see what a former mining town looks like. 

If you’re continuing your journey in Southern California, check out our other posts below: 

• Visiting Joshua Tree National Park in 3 Days
• Hiking Mount Whitney in a Day

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

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• Eagle and High Peak Mine
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• Apple Pies & Desert Skies: A Self-Guided Driving Tour
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There is always something to enjoy.

We Invite you to Visit Julian, California

A premier mountain getaway, just an hour east of san diego.

Julian is located in the beautiful Cuyamaca mountains. Take a step back in time to the days of Julian’s beginning rooted in the 1870’s gold rush. Get away from the hectic rush of city life… discover the charms of Julian. See where gold was discovered—shop stores housed in historic buildings dating back to the 1870’s—sleep in a romantic B&B or historic hotel—sample Julian’s famous apple pie —hike and picnic amid oaks and pines.

Fresh air and beautiful scenery abound in our area. Hiking trails, Parks and old-fashioned buildings. Enjoy a History Hunt through town, or simply enjoy a self-guided History Walk.

Julian also features a number of events throughout the year. There is always a reason and a season to visit Julian. We truly do enjoy all four seasons in our mountain town. Enjoy!

Julian is located in the beautiful Cuyamaca mountains. Take a step back in time to the days of Julian’s beginning rooted in the 1870’s gold rush. Get away from the hectic rush of city life… discover the charms of Julian. See where gold was discovered—shop stores housed in historic buildings dating back to the 1870’s—sleep in a romantic B&B or historic hotel—sample Julian’s famous apple pie —hike and picnic amid oaks and pines—ride down Main Street in a horse-drawn carriage.

From a casual stroll around Lake Cuyamaca , to the challenge of Volcan Mountain , there is something for every level in our area.  The famous Eagle Rock hike out of Warner Springs is just a 30 minute drive from downtown Julian.

We encourage you to explore the amazing natural opportunities in our area.  Be sure to take only photos and leave only foot prints.

Handy Handouts You May Download

(also available at town hall)

• Volcan Mountain Preserve Trail Map
• Santa Ysabel East Trail Map
• Santa Ysabel West Trail Map
• Cleveland National Forest Visitor’s Guide 
• Hikes in the Julian Area

So Much to See & Do

A julian get-away.

Choose your way to enjoy Julian.  There is no shortage of activities to enjoy. There is also plenty to enjoy with just a relaxing visit that consists of strolling Main St. or, visiting the surrounding lake or preserves.

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Crooked Pine Farmhouse Jim Brinson C Street, Julian CA 92036 (858) 344-4230 airbnb.com/h/Julian-Crooked-Pine Learn about this fantastic lodging option in Julian. What a [...]

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Passionate Artist met a Fly Guy. Come see the beauty of Nature. 4425 Highway 78, Santa Ysabel Visit Them on Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/juliannaturalhistorymuseum1 We have a sample [...]

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Autumn Jubilee and Haunted Harvest at Fort Cross

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14 Fun Things to do in Julian, California | Bucket List

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TL;DR: Of all the fun things to do in Julian, California, you can’t miss eating at the Julian Pie Company, hiking to the Three Sisters Falls, and exploring Gold Rush history at the Pioneer Museum. Here’s a quick look:

• Indulge in the famous apple pie and cider donuts at Julian Pie Company or grab a drink at Julian Hard Cider. For “real food,” go to Lake Cuyamaca Restaurant & Store for hamburgers and gorgeous views of the lake.
• Hike to the summit of Volcan Mountain, explore trails at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, or see the Three Sisters Falls—the best waterfall in Southern California and only 30 minutes from Julian.
• Learn about Julian’s Gold Rush history at the Julian Pioneer Museum or take a self-guided walking tour of the Old West buildings along Main Street.

The first time I visited Julian, I was doing a day trip from San Diego with a few of my college friends. 

As we were navigating the winding Highway 79 to get up to the small town, I started feeling car sick. I remember wondering if Julian would actually be worth the hype. 

Once we arrived, my questioning demeanor faded into the background. We drove through the historic Wild West facades along Main Street and found a place to park.

It felt like we had stepped back in time to the 19th century Gold Rush era and I couldn’t wait to start exploring. 

We spent the rest of the day eating apple pie, visiting a cidery, and taking in everything that Julian had to offer. There was a lot. 

Julian is one of those towns that sticks with you for years, so I wanted to put together a full guide on how to get the most out of a trip here. 

These are my picks for the best and most fun things to do in Julian, California. 

In this post, you’ll learn about where to find the best apple-themed goodies, where you can learn more about the town’s Gold Rush history, and where to get outside to see the natural beauty of the area. 

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Table of Contents

14 Best Things to do in Julian, CA

Indulge in apple pie & apple cider donuts.

You can’t go to Julian and NOT try the apple pie, it’s what Julian is known for! 

With so many apple orchards in the area, the town of Julian features a variety of apple-themed treats. And the most famous of those is Julian apple pie. 

There are two main pie restaurants in Julian town – Julian Pie Company and Mom’s Pies . I personally think the Julian Pie Company has the best Julian apple pie, but there’s no harm in taste testing both to see which one you like better. 

Just keep in mind that slices are big and rich at both the Julian Pie Company and Mom’s Pies so it’s not a bad idea to share with a friend. 

Another treat that shouldn’t be missed in town is apple cider donuts, which you can get from the Julian Pie Company. 

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Try the Hard Apple Cider

If you’re looking to indulge in something a little harder than just a sugar rush, Julian is also known for its hard apple cider. 

When I was in town last, I grabbed a bottle from Julian Hard Cider to drink when I got back to San Diego and it was delicious!

They have a few interesting flavors on offer, including Cherry Bomb (with cherries), Black & Blue (with blueberries and blackberries), Razzmatazz (with raspberries), Pearanormal (with mint leaves, pear juice, and lime), and even an apple pie flavor in case you need more apples. 

There’s also Julian Cider Mill if you want to taste a few different ciders around town. 

Go Apple Picking

Julian is one of the best apple picking destinations in California , so if you’ve never done it before, this is the place to experience it. 

This is a great family-friendly activity but also a good date activity in town if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Julian since the orchards are so scenic.  

Peak apple season in Julian is September and October, so you’ll want to plan your trip around then if you want to do some apple picking. 

Otherwise, Julian also has fruit picking in the summer. This usually includes the option to pick strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries and runs from July through October at certain farms.  

But back to the apples. There are quite a few apple farms to choose from, head to your favorite or choose a few to visit in the fall. 

These are the U-Pick orchards I’d recommend:

• Volcan Valley Apple Farm
• Apple Starr Orchard
• Julian Farm & Orchard (part of Julian Mining Company)
• Calico Ranch

If you want to go apple picking in Julian, keep in mind that most orchards are only open on the weekends (Fri-Sun).

They also get packed during apple picking season since it’s such a condensed time frame, so get there early if you want to avoid the crowds.

Do a Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour

Julian is where San Diego’s first and only gold rush happened in 1870, and you can still see those historic remnants in the Wild West feel of Julian town today. 

One of the best free things to do in Julian is to do a self-guided historic walking tour to take in the many sights from this unique time in history. 

The Visit Julian website has a full list of places to visit. Here’s a look at the historic sights they recommend adding to your self-guided walking tour. 

• Julian Town Hall
• F.A. DeLuca Store
• A.P. Frary, Jr. Residence
• Julian Jail
• F. L. Blanc Warehouse
• F. L. Blanc Rental
• Dr. Hildreth Office/Residence
• Hosking’s Rental Residences
• F.A. DeLuca Residence
• Hotel Robinson
• Wilcox Building
• Wheelbarrow Odometer
• Survey of 1894
• Levi-Marks Store
• Bailey-King House
• Drue Bailey House
• Pioneer Cemetery

Explore the Local Shops Along Main Street

As you walk down Main Street with its Western-style facades and dusty nature, it’s easy to feel like John Wayne might pop out of a saloon to challenge you to a duel. 

Luckily, Julian just makes you feel like you’re in the Wild West without the actual dangers of that time. 

Main Street, as the name suggests, is Julian’s main street in its historic downtown area. One of my favorite activities in Julian is to simply walk down Main Street and pop my head into its many shops. 

A few favorites include: 

• Julian Book House – For all my fellow book nerds who love a cozy bookstore. 
• The Warm Hearth of Julian – For a random assortment of home decor, women’s clothing, accessories, furniture, toys, and books.
• Julian Candy Basket – An old-fashioned candy shop if you haven’t quenched your sweet tooth with apple pie yet. 
• Wynola Junction Antiques & Collectibles – If you’re looking for unique antiques, this is the place to go.

Dive into History at the Julian Pioneer Museum

If you’re looking to get a fuller picture of the history of Julian town, a visit to the Julian Pioneer Museum is a must. 

The museum, which was once the blacksmith shop for this small mining town, features a number of artifacts and exhibits. 

This is where you can learn about the Indigenous Americans who once lived in the Julian area, as well as the Gold Rush era and pioneering history in San Diego County. 

Since the museum is run by volunteers, it’s recommended that you call ahead to make sure they’re open before visiting. Their phone number is (760) 765-0227.

Tour a Gold Mine and do Some Gold Panning

If you’ve ever wanted to tour a gold mine and you’re making a trip to Julian, now’s your chance! 

The Eagle & High Peak Mine offers hour-long tours of the gold mine with the chance to try some gold mining after learning about the process. 

Another place that offers gold mining (but no gold mine tours) is Julian Mining Company . 

Julian Mining Company also offers other kid-friendly activities like gem sluicing and a mine tunnel train ride, as well as a general store for grabbing some souvenirs before you head out.

The gold mining experiences are definitely aimed at kids, but touring a gold mine is a fun stop for all ages who want to learn more about Julian’s Gold Rush town history. 

See the Wolves at the California Wolf Center

One of the more unique things to do in Julian, the California Wolf Center allows you to learn more about San Diego County’s resident wolf packs and to see these impressive animals up close. 

Wolves have been hunted and killed by humans in California for generations. Grey wolves actually went extinct in California in the 1920s, but they’ve slowly started coming back to California since 2011 from places like Oregon. 

They’re still an endangered species, so nonprofits like the California Wolf Center help to make sure they don’t go extinct again. 

Visit Lake Cuyamaca

Only a 15-minute drive from Julian town, Lake Cuyamaca is a 110-acre reservoir in the San Diego mountains. If you’re looking for places to camp near Julian, this is an ideal and scenic spot. 

However, if you just want to do a day at the lake, there are plenty of options for things to do.

You can rent a boat, walk around the lake (it’s about three miles), picnic, do some birdwatching, or go for a hike. There’s also a restaurant near the lake that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers stunning views of the glistening water. 

If you want to keep it simple, my recommendation would be to do the walk around the perimeter of the lake and either bring a picnic to eat along the way or grab lunch once you’re done at the restaurant.

Regardless of how you spend your time at Lake Cuyamaca, this is one of the prettiest spots near Julian and very much worth visiting. 

Although there are clearly plenty of things to do in Julian, if you’re looking to do some outdoor activities in and around Julian, going on a hike is a good option. 

Even though Julian is located in a mountainous region, temperatures can still get very hot in the summer. Because of this, if you’re hiking in Julian in the summer, it’s strongly recommended that you go in the morning and finish before the afternoon. 

There are a lot of hiking options just outside of Julian, but these would be my top picks for the best hikes in Julian (and nearby): 

• Volcan Mountain Trail (6-min drive from Julian) – The Volcan Mountain Trail is an out-and-back 4.9-mile hike that takes you to the summit of Volcan Mountain for sweeping views. In the spring it features colorful wildflowers too.
• Cuyamaca Rancho State Park (15-min drive from Julian) – Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is the closest state park to Julian and features a variety of trails for all levels of hikers. A few trails that I’d recommend include the Dead Horse Falls Trail (2.5 miles), Stonewall Peak Trail (3.9 miles), or the Harvey Moore Trail (9.7 miles).
• Three Sisters Falls (30-min drive from Julian) – Three Sisters Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Southern California that also happens to be right next to Julian. If you only have time for one waterfall hike near Julian, this one should be it. Located in Cleveland National Forest, the Three Sisters Falls trail is a difficult hike that’s 4.1 miles roundtrip. However, the challenging journey is well worth it with a view of the three-tiered falls at the end.
• Cedar Creek Falls (40-min drive from Julian) – Looking for more waterfalls near Julian? The 5.6-mile Cedar Creek Falls trail takes you through backcountry hills and scenic flora on the way to a swimming hole and waterfall at the end. This is a difficult hike that requires a strenuous uphill climb on the way back, so only do this one if you feel comfortable with the idea of being on a stairclimber for an hour or so. The best time to see the falls at their fullest is either in winter or spring. This trail also requires day permits year-round to hike it, which you can reserve here .

Say Hello to the Camels at Oasis Camel Dairy

Another one of the more unique things to do in Julian is visiting the camels at the Oasis Camel Dairy .

With a visit, you can say hello to the camels, go on a camel ride, or, if you have more time, sign up for their camel camp to learn more about these fascinating creatures. They also offer private group tours that you can book online.

Before you leave, check out some of their camel milk skincare products that are made onsite. 

If you’re wanting to just come for a quick visit without booking a private group tour,  you’ll need to check ahead on their website for when their Open Farm Days are since they’re only on specific days. 

Sample the Local Wine

It makes sense with how rich the soil is for growing apples and other fruits in Julian that it would also be rich for growing grapes.

Julian may not have the same level wine scene as what you’d find in nearby Temecula, but there are a few wineries in the area that are worth sampling if you’re into wine. 

Here are a few I’d recommend stopping in at if you want to do your own self-guided winery tour in Julian. 

• Volcan Mountain Winery
• Menghini Winery
• Blue Door Winery

Enjoy the Stargazing

Even though it’s just over an hour from San Diego, Julian has a way of feeling thousands of miles away from the big cities of California.

And this can especially be felt in its dark skies and great stargazing opportunities you can discover after dark. 

Since 2016, Julian has been working on limiting light pollution and they were recently named the second dark-sky community in California by the International Dark-Sky Association. 

In fact, Julian’s skies are so dark that it’s now part of the 1% of the US that can still see the Milky Way. 

This is all to say if you’re into stargazing, Julian is a great place to do that.

So if you’re staying overnight in the Julian area, either spend some time looking up at the sky or see if you can go to one of their dark sky events that happen throughout the year. You can learn more about those here . 

Take a Day Trip to Anza Borrego Desert State Park

About an hour from Julian, Anza Borrego Desert State Park is one of the coolest parks to visit near town if you have some extra time in the area.

It seriously feels as if you’ve stepped onto another planet once you arrive at the funky desert landscape at Anza Borrego. 

Go early in the day to do some hiking and drive through the rugged scenery, stopping at the panoramic viewpoints throughout the park.

If you’re up for an early day, Anza Borrego Desert State Park is especially stunning at sunrise with its purplish hues and dramatic backdrop. It’s also known for its wildflowers if you plan your trip for the springtime. 

Just make sure to bring extra water, sun protection, and download your directions and maps ahead of time because cell service can be spotty. 

Where to Stay in Julian

Although Julian can be a great day trip from San Diego, these are the three hotels in Julian that I’d recommend if you’re doing a weekend trip. 

• Julian Lodge  
• Julian Gold Rush Inn
• Wikiup Hummingbird Hotel

Camping Near Julian, California

If you’re looking for camping in Julian, there are a lot of great campsites around the town of Julian or just outside of it. 

My top picks for campsites near Julian would include those at William Heise County Park , Pinezanita RV Park & Campgrounds , Lake Cuyamaca Recreation Area , or Cuyamaca Rancho State Park .

Read our guide to camping near San Diego .

What to Pack for Julian

Unlike most of the rest of Southern California, Julian has proper seasons so you’ll want to pack appropriately depending on what time of the year you’re visiting. For winter and early spring, be prepared for some snow and below-freezing temperatures. 

For late spring, summer, or fall I’d recommend bringing the following: 

• Breathable layers  
• Shorts / dresses / light pants
• Good walking shoes (especially for apple orchards) 
• Hat for sun protection
• Windbreaker
• Plenty of water
• Hiking shoes , clothes , and hiking poles (if you plan to do any hiking) 
• Camera / phone  – there are so many good places to take pictures in Julian! 
• Travel insurance
• Downloaded maps for getting there (cell service can be spotty through the mountains) 

Tips for Visiting Julian

• Julian is one of those rare places in Southern California that has four seasons – As mentioned above, instead of summer and then more summer like most of the rest of Southern California, Julian has actual seasons. This means if you’re looking to get your fall foliage fix, you can do that with a short drive from San Diego. However, this also means you should be mindful about what you’re packing to stay warm and dry in the fall, winter, and early spring.
• If you’re going hiking, bring plenty of water and go in the morning – This is especially the case if you’re going hiking in the summer or early fall, but Julian can get very hot and a lot of hiking trails don’t have a lot of shade. Go early and bring plenty of water.
• Head to Julian early in the day if you’re doing an apple picking day trip – I’d even recommend planning to arrive as the apple orchards are opening. The traffic from San Diego can be brutal during apple picking season. So if you don’t want to wait in traffic, get up there early.
• Cell service can be spotty on your way up to Julian, download directions and maps ahead of time – There were multiple parts of the winding drive through the mountains where we lost cell service on our way to Julian. And with these small mountain roads, it can be easy to get lost. Make sure to download directions and maps ahead of time so you can navigate there even without cell service if needed.
• Don’t drink and drive – This is just common sense but don’t drink and drive! Julian has a lot of great wine and cider to sample, but that doesn’t mix very well with winding mountain roads. It’s also good to keep in mind that hard cider is usually higher in alcohol than your standard beer (close to 7% sometimes). 

How to Get to Julian

Julian is located in San Diego County, about 60 miles from the city of San Diego. The easiest way to get from San Diego to Julian is by car via I-8 E and CA-79 N. 

It usually takes around an hour and fifteen minutes to drive to Julian, although it can be closer to two hours with weekend traffic. 

FAQs About Julian, California

How do you spend a day in julian.

There are numerous ways you could spend a day in Julian. If you’re going during apple picking season, I’d recommend starting with a visit to one of the apple orchards earlier in the day. 

Afterward, you can explore Main Street and its unique shops, grab some fresh apple pie and cider, do a self-guided tour of Julian’s historical sights, tour a gold mine, visit the Julian Pioneer Museum and California Wolf Center, and maybe round out the day with a hike or a visit to Lake Cuyamaca. 

If you’re traveling with kids, you might also want to fit in some gold panning at Julian Mining Company or the Eagle & High Peak Mine.

What is Julian Known for?

Julian is known for its apple pie, cider, wine scene, and Gold Rush history. It’s also one of the best apple-picking towns to visit in the fall in California. 

Is There Snow in Julian?

The mountainous area in and around the town of Julian is one of the few places where it sometimes snows in San Diego County. 

With that said, there’s rarely more than a few feet of snow in any given year and most snowfall happens between January and March.

What is There to do in Julian in the Snow?

If it’s snowing while you’re in Julian, there’s still plenty to do. First off, there’s really nothing better than eating warm apple pie and drinking hot apple cider when it’s cold out. 

You can also do any of the other indoor activities that Julian has to offer, such as visiting the Julian Pioneer Museum or Wolf Center. 

Also, because the snow is usually so light, you can still walk around Main Street and even do a self-guided walking tour of Julian’s historical sights outside. 

When it starts getting too cold, just duck your head into the next local cafe or restaurant to warm up with some more hot cider and apple pie.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more Southern California inspiration? Check out these related posts below! 

101 Things to do in San Diego  

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Thank you for your Julian bucket list. I wanted a list that was not from the commercial promoters. Very inviting and informative. Be well,

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WHAT TO DO IN JULIAN, CALIFORNIA

There is so much to do with a day in Julian, California. Less than 90 minutes from San Diego, Julian is a great day trip for the whole family. I love the different offerings throughout the seasons. Julian is an old mining town that is now known for its incredibly busy apple picking season. Although we always head to Julian for fall adventures like apple picking and the pumpkin patch, I also love visiting during the other seasons. Spring offers beautiful daffodils and wildflowers, summer offers fresh berry picking and winter will bring you snow play! We have had so many adventures in Julian over the years, so instead of a one-day itinerary, this post is broken into some of our favorite things to do when we head up!

Table of Contents

FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN JULIAN, CALIFORNIA

• THINGS TO DO IN JULIAN

BEST FOOD & DRINK IN JULIAN

Where to shop in julian.

• WHERE TO HIKE & CAMP IN JULIAN
• STOPS WE LOVE OUTSIDE OF TOWN

THINGS TO DO IN JULIAN, CALIFORNIA

Julian farm & orchard.

4381 State Highway 78

This is one of our favorite things to do in Julian throughout the seasons. The farm is owned by the sweetest family and offers a variety of seasonal activities. During summer, you can pick fresh strawberries and blueberries on the farm. During the fall, the farm is our go-to pumpkin patch. You can pick pumpkins from the displays or head into the patch to pick your own. They offer hayrides, cider pressing, barnyard animal visits, and ax throwing.

The farm always has a variety of barnyard animals for kids to enjoy as well. This summer, they had three new baby goats that our son LOVED and was able to pet. The farm is a fun place to wander and the tire swing on the tree next to the pumpkin patch is a do-not-miss for kids. When heading to Julian, check out their website for the latest info on what the farm is offering during your visit. We love to stop by the farm closer to closing to avoid mid-day peak crowds. Don’t miss the farm when spending a day in Julian, California.

JULIAN MINING COMPANY

4444 State Highway 78

On the other side of Highway 78 is Julian Mining Company, owned by the same family that owns Julian Farm & Orchard. The mining company is another great stop for families. Kids will have a blast as they “mine” for gold and/or gems by the creek where the real gold was first discovered in Julian. The panning is set up in troughs under a beautiful walnut tree. The grounds have lots of funky areas to explore as well. The Julian Mining Company is open year-round. Check their website for updated hours, but they usually close by 5 pm.

VOLCAN VALLEY APPLE FARM

1284 Julian Orchards Drive

This apple farm has been a family tradition for all of our son’s life. It is our favorite place to go apple picking in Julian each fall. It has changed ownership over the years but only gotten busier. We plan on a weekend visit to Julian somewhere around Labor Day, but I recommend f ollowing them on Facebook to get the most updated info on the season . This year (2020) the season was picked over and closed after three weekends! Bags were $15 and include admission for 1. Additional admissions are $5, with children under 5 free. They grow a variety of apples and depending on when you go, certain varieties may be unavailable if they are not ready yet. The apple farm is located just outside downtown Julian and we usually head there first thing on our day trips. Apple season tends to coincide with hot weather in Julian, so come prepared with water, sunblock, and hats! You can find our favorites here !

I always recommend packing a picnic before heading up to Julian, enjoying the apple picking, and then heading next door to Menghini Winery for your lunch with some local wine by the apple orchard. There is a winery across from the orchard that has changed over several times, It is always packed because it is right by the apples, however, head down the road to avoid the lines and enjoy the views at Menghini.

HEROES RESTAURANT

218 Main Street

Heroes Restaurant is a delicious stop for lunch. Although open until 4 or 5, Heroes is a VERY popular spot that tends to close a bit earlier in the afternoon due to crowds. Put your name on the list and enjoy downtown Julian until they text you. The restaurant is focused on honoring the men and women that serve our country – military and first responders. They offer a 10% discount to military patrons. The dining room is filled with military and first responder memorabilia, patches, and flags.

If you are looking for a delicious burger or beer in Julian, Heroes is your spot. You cannot go wrong with anything on their menu , but my personal favorite is the Jammin Burger. The apple-cranberry-almond coleslaw is delicious too. Our son loves ordering the burgers too, but unfortunately, they do not have a kids burger on the kid’s menu, so expect the full price ($14) burger on your check. The restaurant is pet and motorcycle friendly which makes the patio very popular on crowded weekends. Don’t miss your chance to watch the action on Main Street from their patio seating.

MENGHINI WINERY

1150 Julian Orchards Drive

This is one of the first places we ever discovered in Julian and we have been coming back since. The boutique winery is just down past Volcan Valley Apple Farm on Julian Orchards Drive. They have a large property of grass, beautiful trees, picnic tables, and apple trees. They encourage you to picnic and their location is perfect for it! You can taste, buy a glass or bottle to share. If you are not picnicking and want to be close for tastings, you can enjoy a glass on the back patio among lush greenery and enjoy the views of the orchard. This is a great spot for lunch after apple picking before heading into town! Hours are 11-4 or 5 pm depending on the day. You can check their website for current hours .

WYNOLA PIZZA & BISTRO

This is our favorite place to grab a casual lunch or dinner with family. Wynola Pizza & Bistro has a great patio, live music, and craft beer selection. Our favorite is the “Joe’s Godfather” pizza for sure. I also love the “Pizza Crust Salad.” Everything is delicious and their location is ideal, just off Highway 79, right next door to Julian Farm & Orchard. If you are anxious to beat sunset down the windy mountain roads, it is a great place to stop in and grab pizza to-go after a day in Julian, California. It is also perfect for grab-n-go when camping nearby!

JULIAN PIE COMPANY

21976 State Highway 79 or 2225 Main Street

Julian is known for their apple pie and the line outside of Julian Pie Company in downtown Julian never ceases to amaze me. My advice is to skip the Julian Pie Company in downtown Julian and opt for the bigger, less crowded Julian Pie Company in Santa Isabel . We always enjoy the classic apple pie with vanilla ice cream, but Julian Pie has other unique combinations too. You can top your slice of pie with whipped cream, caramel, or even a slice of sharp cheddar cheese! The apple cider donuts (and donut holes) are delicious, too! A slice of pie on the way out of town is a great end to a day in Julian, California.

JEREMY’S ON THE HILL

4354 State HIghway 78

We absolutely love this restaurant. If you are looking for a nicer meal, Jeremy’s is your spot. This is farm-to-table local cuisine that will not disappoint. We have had a variety of meals here – full course dinner and late afternoon appetizers. With the Julian Farm & Orchard across the street closing at 5 pm, Jeremy’s is a great spot for an early dinner on the patio with your family! Whatever season it is during your visit, Jeremy’s is sure to compliment your day in town! Jeremy’s is delicious, fresh, seasonal and dinner here is an amazing way to end a day in Julian!

BLUE DOOR WINERY

2608 B Street

Blue Door Winery is located in the center of downtown Julian. The tasting room is located in the town’s old livery stables. The winemakers are the nicest people too and the wine is great. Their signature sangria is fantastic on a hot, Julian summer day. You can grab a growler of the Sangria to go as well. I definitely recommend stopping in for a beverage during a visit to Julian! They have an urban winery on Morena Blvd. in San Diego so if you want to become wine club members you can taste and pick up at either location!

NICKEL BEER COMPANY

1485 Hollow Glen Road

This brewery is right outside of town and a fun place to stop in for a refreshing beer. They have over 16 beers on tap and have different food truck options. We especially love swinging by after a big hike. We once had an incredible sunrise hike in Anza-Borrego and stopped in for a beer on our way into Julian. More on that in a future post. They have a large, pet-friendly outdoor seating area. During the spring, you can enjoy the daffodils popping up all around the hills surrounding the brewery. If you enjoy beer, definitely stop in for a pint or two during your next day in Julian!

CALICO CIDERY

4200 State Highway 78

This is a great new spot in town! The ranch has been around for years, growing apples and pears and making cider for family and friends. The ranch has been selling fruit and recently opened for retail cider sales last year. The location is beautiful which makes it is a must-stop for us! There is a large seating area in the shade along Highway 79 in front of the cider, but the gem is the orchard behind. Tables are scattered throughout the orchard under the tree. Pick up a tasting flight of the four ciders on tap and enjoy the scenery. Calico Cidery is open on weekends and is a great place to meet up with friends and escape the crowds in downtown Julian.

JULIAN HARD CIDER

4470 Highway 78

Julian Hard Cider has been around for years and is always a fun place to pop in and taste. They have super friendly staff members and I love all of the recommendations that come with the ciders. The “Apple Pie” cider is a delicious treat to break out during dessert at your Thanksgiving celebration. The “Black and Blue” is a great tasting cider alone, and is also fabulous boiled down into a reduction over brussel sprouts. The tasting room for Julian Hard Cider is located in the Julian Station shopping area and is a great place to check out on your way in or out of town.

JULIAN STATION

Julian Station is a great place to stop on your way in or out of town. The property is actually an old apple packing facility and cider house turned into a marketplace of unique vendors, boutiques, food, and drinks. I always have fun cruising through, checking out the different shops, and tasting at Julian Hard Cider . Your kids will love the coin-operated rides like the ones outside of grocery stores from when we were kids. They even have a small fenced-in toy area for the kids too! Julian Station is a great little stop to check out with a day in Julian!

ECCENTRIC APE

2000 Main Street

This store is located in downtown Julian between B & C Street. This was such a unique shop to stumble upon. They have a great tapestry selection. We use ours for a picnic/beach/park blanket and camping tablecloth but you can also hang them as art or use them as a comforter cover. I am always getting compliments on the one we purchased. The store also has a variety of incense and related supplies. Definitely, a place to check out with a day in Julian if you are into this vibe!

THE CANDY MINE

2134 Main Street

Our son loves this place. It is his favorite stop. When you first walk in, you will be in the small Miner’s Diner restaurant. However, in the back, follow the sign to the Candy Mine. Head down the stairs and you will be surrounded by buckets of candy. They carry all of the old-time candies and favorites. There is definitely something for everyone. It is a hit with my son. He brings it up every time we go to Julian. I love that he will always remember heading down the dark stairs complete with mining sound effects. It is a quick stop, but a fun one with kids! It is also on the main stretch where chances are you have parked and are cruising around if you are spending a day in Julian.

CROW & LILAC

My friend and I stumbled upon this store while enjoying Sangria from Blue Door Winery next door. The store smells amazing and is full of natural body & home products. I have several linen sprays from the essential oil line that are incredible. I also have the “after sun spray” that is so rejuvenating on your skin after a shower post-beach day. Crow and Lilac is a great place to check out while you enjoy your Sangria.

JULIANTLA CHOCOLATE BOUTIQUE

Next door to Crow and Lilac, this boutique has some delicious candies and chocolate treats for the entire family. In addition to chocolates and candies, they carry pastries, cakes, and apple pies. Everything is made locally and they have a large vegan selection. Juliantla Chocolate Boutique is another great place to check out while having your Sangria from Blue Door !

HIKING & CAMPING IN JULIAN

Santa isabel county preserve.

You pass the Santa Isabel County Preserve coming into town from San Diego. The Santa Isabel West trails are an easy place to take kids out hiking, however, it can be very hot. There is a lot to explore and we enjoyed heading out among the rolling hills and oak trees. The entire loop can be up to 8 miles, or you can head out and back a few miles as we did with our son. There are many cows on the trail and very little shade. If you want an easy hike with minimal elevation, this is a great place to explore! Make sure to watch out for rattlesnakes, especially with little kids! I recommend this hike on a cooler day.

WILLIAM HEISE COUNTY PARK SELF-GUIDED NATURE TRAIL

William Heise County Park is a great place to hike and camp in Julian. The park is filled with hiking trails that can make a day out of adventuring. We had an enjoyable, .5mile hike along the self-guided nature trail loop . The loop left from the campground, not too far from our site (site 72). My son brought his scooter because we started by cruising through the campground and ended up on the hike. The hike is not scooter/stroller friendly, but it was easy enough to carry his scooter on the .5 mile loop. The hike takes you out into the county park, with information about the vegetation as you go. It is a great way to get out into nature in Julian. The county park does charge $3 for parking.

CAMPING AT WILLIAM HEISE COUNTY PARK

Camping at William Heise County Park is a great way to turn your daycation visiting Julian, Ca into a weekend getaway! The park has tent and RV hookup sites, as well as cabins and group-camping options. The cabins are insulated and include lighting, wood-framed beds (no linens), a table, and chairs. Use this link to view the park brochure and campground map. In addition to the 11-miles in hiking trails, there is a playground and ranger activities on the weekends. We had a wonderful time camping at William Heise during apple season.

STOPS WE LOVE JUST OUTSIDE OF TOWN

• Clevenger Trails in San Pasqual Canyon
• Inspiration Point on the way to Mount Laguna
• Mount Laguna – so many great hikes and views here
• Anza Borrego State Park – a fun desert adventure

NEXT VISIT LIST

• Quecho – A newer Mexican Eatery that looks delicious
• The Barn Vintage Marketplace – a store I want to check out
• Julian Beer Company – looks great, always busy – food & drink
• Check out Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures
• Take a tour of the Wolf Sanctuary just outside of town

Have you been to Julian? What would you add to my list?

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Any additional thoughts cancel reply.

23 Best Things To Do In Julian, California

There are many awesome things to do in Julian, the small mountain town, tucked away in the pretty Laguna Mountains, known to all for its juicy apples, ciders, and pies.

Whether you are looking to experience a small mountain town charm or country friendliness in Southern California, want to feel like you have traveled back in time to the 19th century, or you are looking for a holiday filled with lots of eating and drinking, it is possible to do all these in Julian.

The rustic Wild West facades along Main Street will showcase the Gold Rush history of Julian while you will be drawn to the aromatic pies being made in the many bakeries and cafes.

Located 60 miles northeast of San Diego and about a 3-hour drive southeast of Los Angeles, Julian is one of the popular day trips from both cities.

Whether you’re making a day trip or plan to stay longer, what to do in Julian includes more than apple orchards.

Read on to discover the top things to do in Julian. I’ve put together the top attractions in Julian, CA, including places to stay, and how to get there.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN JULIAN CA

Go apple picking in julian.

One of my favourite things to do in Julian is apple picking. Did you know? Julian is one of the best apple picking destinations in California .   

If you’ve never done apple picking before, Julian is the place to experience it. Thanks to the gorgeous setting of the apple orchards amidst beautiful flower fields, it is also one of the romantic things to do in Julian.

Apple picking is also a family activity that you can enjoy with kids. Note that this is a seasonal activity, with the peak apple season being the fall months of September, October and November.

Most apple orchards are open only during the weekends from Friday through Sunday, so plan accordingly.

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If you are here in summer, from July through October, there are berry farms where you can pick strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries.

There are many popular u-pick apple orchards in the area. On the picking tour, most orchards provide bags or baskets to fill and poles to grab apples off of the apple trees. 

Here are some of the places I recommend for picking.

Volcan Valley Apple Farm –  The largest orchard in Julian is Volcan Valley Apple Farm. It is the most visited and a popular farm attracting thousands of visitors. You get to explore the beautiful vast expanse of orchards home to over 8000 apple trees. 

Apple Starr Orchard –  Apple Starr Orchard is great for picking some organic apples and also pears.

Calico Ranch Orchard  – It is one of the oldest apple orchards in the town, established in the 1930s. It is a family-run apple and pear orchard located just outside Julian that has been continuously in operation all these decades. You can also shop for fresh and delicious cider made by them.

Julian Orchard Drive –  Julian Farm & Orchard, run by the Julian Mining Company, is home to not only just apple orchards but also raspberries and blackberries that you can pick.

This farm is great to enjoy if you are with kids as they have many indoor and outdoor games and a zoo too.

You can get to understand this mountain town’s rich background better through the museum’s impressive collection of mining artefacts, period clothing, gold mining paraphernalia, a collection of Victorian pianos, household furnishings, and many historical photographs.

You can also take a stroll in the park around the museum, which is a popular spot for picnics.

GO ON A SELF-GUIDED HISTORIC WALKING TOUR

One of the top things to do in Julian is soaking all its rich history, which will transport you to the 19th century. You can do this by going on a self-guided tour for free, or by joining a guided walking tour.

I’d suggest you pick a map for the self-tour, or better, head to the main street and check around as most of the buildings are a testimony of the past.

Julian is the only place in San Diego where the gold rush happened in 1870, evidence of which you will see all around.

Recommended – 25 Top Gold Rush Towns In California You Should Visit At Least Once

The western-style facades on the main street in its historic downtown area will give you the vibes of the Wild West.

On the official Julian website, there is a list of historic buildings and landmarks that you can explore on foot. 

Some of the notables are Julian Town Hall, F.A. DeLuca Residence and Store, Hotel Robinson, Wilcox Building, Julian Jail, Pioneer Cemetery, Wheelbarrow Odometer, and Bailey-King House.

Among the ones I liked is Julian Gold Rush Hotel, a national historic landmark dating back to 1890.

GET TO KNOW THE HISTORY AT JULIAN PIONEER MUSEUM

There is no place better than the Julian Pioneer Museum, which is one of the top things to do in Julian to know about the town’s rich history.

The Julian Pioneer Museum is a small, local history museum housed in an 1800s blacksmith shop.

The exhibits and many artefacts will give you glimpses of the experience of the life of a small California mining town inhabited by the Indigenous Americans who once lived in the Julian area. 

The Gold Rush era began in 1870 in this region changing the history of San Diego County. 

But the gold rush only lasted 30 years, with Julian eventually becoming a farming community known for its many fruits, including apples, berries, and peaches.

Opening hours – Thursday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM (closed from Monday to Wednesday)

TOUR A GOLD MINE

Julian has a short but rich history of gold mining, running from 1870 to 1900. One of the top things to do in Julian to relive the rich history of gold mining is to join tours of the gold mines.

There were 200 gold mines in operation in the area of Julian during this period. 

If you’ve ever wanted to tour a gold mine, you can do so via Eagle mining company, a service provider offering tours to many gold mines in Julian.

The tours mostly provide access to the museum, underground tunnels, and gold panning areas. After the tour, you can enjoy a picnic lunch on the historic grounds.

The Eagle and High Point Gold Mine is the most famous mine, a nicely restored historical gold mine home to 4,000 feet of tunnels and 11 levels, with a maximum depth of 425 feet. 

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The tours, which last about 1 hour, explore the Old Hardrock Tunnels, restored to look like they did in the 1870s. 

Visitors can learn about the history of the mine, and the dark and cramped conditions miners were subject to for 12 hours a day, including understanding the detailed process of mining.

Another place that offers gold mining for kids and adults along with gem sluicing, but not gold mine tours are Julian Mining Company. 

Opening hours –  10 AM to 4 PM

Entry –  USD 10

DINE AT MINER’S DINER

One of the best things to do in Julian to appreciate its past is dining at Miner’s Diner, one of the best and the oldest restaurants in Julian.

Located in the oldest building in the town, this diner, established in 1886, though restored, exudes the charm of the past. 

Thanks to the many original artefacts and the rustic decor comprising brick exposed walls, colourful booths, wooden display cabinets, unopened bottles of medicines and the small train moving around the dining area, the place looks from another era.

Try their unique hand-mixed milkshakes, sundaes, and their local sodas.

Burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and salads are available too.

SHOP FOR ANTIQUES IN JULIAN

Shopping is one of the top things to do in Julian that you cannot probably avoid, thanks to the array of artistic shops and boutiques scattered through the main street.

Whether you plan to take bits of the town for yourself or you plan or getting souvenirs, you will be spoilt for choice thanks to the many pretty gift shops, antiques and boutique stores.

If you are an antique collector, I recommend Wynola Junction Antiques & Collectibles, spanning 3500 sq. ft, where you can buy from over 30 dealers selling antiques, glassware, quilts, and tools.

If you are looking for souvenirs, Crow and Lilac Gallery and Boutique is the most popular shop. They have an eclectic mix of vintage and handcrafted items, ranging from ceramic to art prints to oil paintings.

Also, look for beauty and body products such as soaps, body scrubs, and lotions here.

Warm Hearth, located on Main Street is another shop where you can buy local souvenirs, and also locally made jams, jellies, and barbecue sauces.

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MORE FUN THINGS TO DO IN JULIAN

Taste the delicious apple pie.

One of the top things to do in Julian for foodies is indulging in Apple Pie.

There are many amazing bakeries and cafes serving delicious apple pie. I recommend trying out Julian Pie Company, known for its original apple pie made with Granny Smith apples grown in their orchards in the backyards.

What makes the pie here special is trying out a scoop of ice cream or sauces with the pie. If you want something different, try their peach apple crumb and chicken pot pie.

You can buy cider or coffee too and enjoy their bakes on their lovely patio.

The other exclusive place for a delicious pie is Mom’s Pies. Both places serve large sized pies ideal for a snack. Both also sell frozen pies for you to take home.

TRY THE APPLE CIDER

For those of you who love cider, one of the fun things to do in Julian is tasting the exquisite Hard Apple Cider.

Julian Cider Mill is a popular place for trying different types of Julian Apple Cider. This family-owned place has been around for over 30 years, and here, you may get peeks into the process of making the cider, where they’ll press cider on an antique press.

4 miles away from the main street is Julian Hard Cider‘s Miner’s Saloon, in an old apple packing facility, where you can sample or buy their award-winning hard ciders made from Julian apples.

There are many types of special flavours that I recommend, including the berries cider, and the one made with pear that you can try at restaurants and bars.

ENJOY WINE TASTING

If you are wondering what to do in Julian on a weekend, one of the best things is to go wineries-hopping. 

The rich soil, the location of Julian atop the 4200-foot high Laguna Mountains and the climate make the town a perfect town for growing apples, berries, and also grapes.

One of the top things to do in Julian for wine lovers is sampling the local wine at the few wineries in the area.

There are two wineries I’d recommend stopping in at if you want to do your own self-guided winery tour in Julian. 

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Volcan Mountain Winery is famous for Pomme D’Amour, the sparkling apple wine, which is one of their best-selling products. They also have white and ride wine varieties. 

You can schedule a tasting at the winery. You can even bring a picnic snack of your choice.

Volcan Mountain Winery Opening hours  –   Friday to Monday – 11 AM to 5 PM (closed from Tuesday to Thursday)

Menghini Winery, located at the foot of Volcan Mountain is a boutique winery offering many selections including Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Menghini Winery Opening hours – Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 4 PM; Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

VISIT JULIAN BOOK HOUSE

If you are a book lover like me, Julian Book House will cure your book cravings.

This charming bookstore, formerly a home, is a perfect place for all book lovers and bookworms, home to reasonably-priced books.

If you want to feel the air of an old bookstore, you can do so at Julian Book House where you cannot escape the smell of old books.

The books, reasonably priced and alphabetically organized in beautiful stacks are worth checking out for a few hours whether you want to indulge in reading or browsing to buy.

STOP AT NICKEL BREWING COMPANY

Among the top attractions in Julian for beer lovers is Nickel Brewing Company. This simple brewery, set in a wooden-frame building, located amidst rich orchards and lush green hills is one of the top things to do in Julian you should check out for the special brews, popular among the locals and tourists alike.

There are over 16 delightful beers are on tap making this the best place to quench your thirst for beer in town, in addition to season flavours. There is often live music by local bands.

While the interior decor offers a rustic charm, the popular outdoor patio is a great spot on warm days to enjoy the breeze and the gorgeous views of the mountains. 

SEE THE WOLVES AT CALIFORNIA WOLF CENTER

One of the unique things to do in Julia is the  California Wolf Center , a vast area dedicated entirely to the recovery and preservation of North American Gray wolves.

It is the only wolf reserve in San Diego County that serves to safely return wolves in the U.S. to their natural habitat. It is the biggest breeding centre for Mexican Gray wolves in the United States.

The Center is home to a large number of grey wolves and North American grey wolves where they are provided with a natural and healthy environment.

You can visit the centre’s conservation facility by booking a one-hour guided tour with an expert, where you will observe their activities on a day-to-day basis.

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This is an excellent tour that allows you to learn more about San Diego County’s resident wolf packs, especially the centre’s resident wolves – a North American grey wolf pack and a Mexican grey wolf pack, and even watch them up close.

If you are visiting with kids, check the visitor centre in downtown Julian, where there are many exhibits on wolf biology and ecology.

Opening hours –   9 AM to 5 PM

Entry –  USD 20 to 50

WATCH THE CAMELS AT OASIS CAMEL DAIRY

On Highway 78 near Julian, you can many ranches and cattle farms that you can stop by. And another among the unique things to do in Julian is visiting the camels at the Oasis Camel Dairy. 

Just a 30-minute drive from Julian in Ramona town is this family farm, which is dedicated to providing a rich pasture for camels and their calves.

If you are traveling with kids, touring the farm is one of the best ways to explore the farm. You can book private family tours online to watch the camels. 

You can even go on a camel ride, or join their camel camp to get to know in detail about these charming creatures.

If you are planning a drop in without booking any tours, I recommend checking their opening hours before arriving as there are limited visiting hours.

THINGS TO DO IN JULIAN FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS

Hike at santa ysabel east preserve.

One of the recommended things to do in Julian if you love the outdoors is visit Santa Ysabel East Preserve.

Just a short drive away is this incredibly beautiful reserve, snuggled between gently rolling hills, oak woodlands, and native grasslands adorned with wildflowers spanning 3800 acres.

There are over 11 miles of paths of well-maintained hiking trails spread over an area of 18.5 miles to choose from, each leading to spectacular nature views, passing through some surreal views, and diverse habitats comprising vibrant flowers and plants.

Overnight camping is not permitted. Biking and picnics amidst beautiful panoramas and Santa Ysabel Creek running along the preserve’s northern edge are other activities you can enjoy here.

Opening hours –   8 AM to 6 PM

Entry –  Free

EXPLORE VOLCAN MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS PRESERVE

Another wilderness reserve which needs to be mentioned on this list of amazing things to do in Julian for nature lovers is exploring Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve.

The reserve is north of the small town of Julian, located between the Laguna and Palomar Mountains on the slopes of Volcan Mountain.

Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve was created to protect the Volcan mountain range, including the natural habitat between the larger Palomar and the Laguna Mountains.

The Wilderness Preserve, spanning 3000 acres, comprises rich evergreen forests, oak woodlands, and deserts.

It is a hiker’s paradise that features over 6 miles of hiking trail, the Volcan mountain trail that lead to the magnificent Volcan summit. 

You can join the hiking tours arranged by rangers for immersive hiking that will introduce you to local plant life and birds.

You will be rewarded with spectacular views of the oak woodlands with the beautiful Pacific Ocean in the backdrop and the distinct views of the arid desert in the east. 

I recommend the short and beautiful 1.5-mile Five Oaks Trail that will take you through the woodlands leading to the open meadows that offer stunning views of the Laguna mountains.

There are many picnic areas and viewpoints throughout the preserve.

VISIT LAKE CUYAMACA RECREATION AND PARK

One of the fun things to do in Julian with kids is boating and fishing at Lake Cuyacama, which is just a 15-minute drive away from the town.

Lake Cuyamaca is a 110-acre reservoir in the San Diego mountains, located at 4,620 feet above sea level constructed due to the dam.

It is surrounded by Cuyamaca Rancho state park, and the lake is a popular spot among locals and visitors for fishing, boating, and camping.

You can walk around the lake for about three miles, enjoy a picnic, do some birdwatching, or go hiking on the many trails that offer splendid views. 

Due to its location and the water remaining cool throughout the year, the reservoir is packed with many species of fish from trout to sturgeon, Florida bass, bluegill and crappie. 

You can rent the fishing equipment at the tackle shop near the lake. There is a shop and a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with stunning views of the glistening water. 

If you wish to stay overnight, there is a well-maintained campground with basic amenities.

Good to know –  You must have both a valid Lake Cuyamaca fishing permit and a California State Fishing License. You can get the state license  online  or at the lake’s tackle shop.

ENJOY HIKING AT CUYAMACA RANCHO STATE PARK

If you love hiking, head to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, just 15-minutes away from Julian, the closest state park to the town.

One of the must things to do in Julian for hikers is exploring this vast expanse, which is a trekker’s paradise.

With more than 100 miles of trails, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is a hiker’s dream, offering plenty of hikes at all difficulty levels.

If you are looking for a short hike, I recommend the 2.5 miles long Dead Horse Falls Trail.

Most seasoned hikers can tackle the climb to the Stonewall Peak, which can be accessed via the 3.9-mile, out-and-back Stonewall Peak Trail, including a few switchbacks.

It is one of the highly rewarding trails as you will be rewarded with the fascinating views of Anza Borrego and the Laguna Mountains.

If you are game for a challenging hike, you can trek to the top of Cuyamaca Peak, the second tallest point in San Diego County at 6,512 feet. 

There are many trails to reach the top, with the most popular being the Azalea Trail up, which is a 7.7 miles hike. 

At the end of this difficult hike, you will be welcomed by the sweeping views of the valley on the horizon, including the San Diego River basin and Mexico to the south. 

If you intend to camp, you need a booking and also permits to stay at any of the two campgrounds, Paso Picacho and Green Valley.

DRIVE AND HIKE TO CEDAR CREEK FALLS

If you love chasing waterfalls, one of the top things to do near Julian is hiking Cedar Creek Falls.

Located within the  Cleveland National Forest  it is one of the largest waterfalls in San Diego plunging at 80 feet and surrounded by dense forests.

The 5.6-mile Cedar Creek Falls trail is regarded as moderately tricky due to the steep 1000-feet descent, which is also slippery and the strenuous uphill climb back up.

This trail takes you through some stunning backcountry hills of San Diego mountains, streams, oak and cottonwood trees, and beautiful flora finally leading to the cascade that forms a pool at the base of the waterfall.

I would suggest hiking here in the spring or winter when the weather is moderate enough to trek without risking heat sickness. It is also the best time to see the waterfalls in full flow.

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SOME THINGS TO KNOW

Hikers visiting Cedar Creek Falls are required to get a permit. The ticket costs $6 per group of five people and may be purchased  here . There is no method for obtaining permissions on the spot.

I recommend double-checking permit availability and visiting hours ahead of time since the district rangers may temporarily restrict the trail in times of extreme heat.

HIKE THE THREE SISTERS FALLS

One of the must things to do in Julian for waterfall lovers is hiking the Three Sisters Falls.  

Three Sisters Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Southern California, and if you are looking to check this off your bucket list driving for about 30 minutes from Julian and a hike will do it.

Located in Cleveland National Forest, the Three Sisters Falls trail is a difficult, multi-tiered hike that’s 4.1 miles roundtrip. 

If you only have time for one waterfall hike near Julian, I recommend this over Cedar Creek.

It involves a steep descent and an uphill climb on the way back. The trail is slippery, and hence I recommend using sturdy hiking shoes. 

The trail passes through dense woodlands and creeks, and you will arrive at three stretches of waterfalls plummeting. You can also try swimming at the Three Sisters; it is refreshing.

I recommend starting your hike as early as possible during the day to beat the temperatures while on your way back and try avoiding weekends.

ENJOY STAR GAZING

If you love watching the night skies, this is one of the must things to do in Julian for you. 

Did you know? Julian is the second town in California officially accredited as an International Dark Sky Community as it is one of the only places in the U.S. where you can see the Milky Way.

There are many prime spots for stargazers around the town.

A prime spot is Observer’s Inn, located on a 5-acres vast beautiful landscape with a professional observatory and one-hour guided tours by an expert astronomer. 

Recommended – 15 Best Spots to Watch An Epic Sunrise In San Diego

You can enjoy stargazing also at Lake Cuyamaca and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. You can carry your telescopes or binoculars.  

The nearby  Palomar Observatory  is another fantastic place for a guided daytime tour.

VISIT THE RANCHES

If you prefer watching the majestic beasts over riding them, checking out the ranches is one of the recommended things to do in Julian for you.

The Kenner Horse Ranch has many things to offer apart from being able to experience the beautiful landscapes of the mountain town on a horseback.

If you sign up for horseback riding, experienced horsemen will lead you through pretty trails encompassing meadows, remote ponds, dense woodlands opening to mountain views

Apart from riding, you can watch how the animals are taken care of, and also enjoy a picnic. Other places for knowing about horses and riding in San Diego Horse Trail Riding, and Integrity Stables.

ENJOY CAMPING AT WILLIAM HEISE COUNTY PARK

One of the best things to do in Julian is camping at William Heise County Park, located 10-minutes away from downtown.

William Heise County Park ,  a 929-acre park near the Laguna Mountain range and the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, is among the most convenient campgrounds with various camping options, including tents, campers, group tents, and cabins. Book as far in advance as possible.

There are simple cabins equipped with wooden bunk beds (no sleeping bag and pad), lights, a fireplace, and electrical outlets. Each cabin has its own fire ring and picnic table outside.

There are also additional camping options including partial hookup and non-hookup sites for recreational vehicles, trailers, and tents. 

You can do some of the free things to do in Julian from here, like hiking, biking, backpacking, walking in the park, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and even stargazing.

PLAN A DAY TRIP TO ANZA BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK

If you are looking for day trips from Julian, Anza Borrego Desert State Park is one of the best parks located an hour’s drive away from the town.

The distinct arid desert landscapes in the park are unlike the general terrain you would expect anywhere in California, making it a unique trip.

You can drive through the park or go hike along with one of the many trails that will take you through the exquisite panoramas. I recommend being there at sunrise and sunset, as both transform the landscapes with different colourful hues. 

Try driving through to stop at the panoramic viewpoints throughout the park, especially if you are here during spring, as the desert wildflowers carpet the canopies making them surreal.

It is best to avoid hot afternoons and make sure you can carry sufficient water and food and have maps offline handy.

MAP OF THINGS TO DO IN JULIAN CA

TIPS FOR VISITING JULIAN

Come Prepared For the Seasons –  As mentioned above, Julian is one of the few rare places in Southern California that experiences four seasons. 

So no matter when you plan to visit, be prepared for the appropriate weather, both the high and the low temperatures. Be mindful about what you’re packing.

Best time for hiking –  Even though Julian is located in a mountainous region since the temperatures can still get very hot in the summer, it is best to avoid hiking on the peak summer days. But if you must, it is best to start early in the morning to avoid the scorching afternoon heat and carry plenty of water.

Julian gets very crowded –  During the peak months and holiday weekends, Julian gets surprisingly packed with people everywhere, especially during the apple harvest season, August through October. So if you want to explore the town with fewer tourists, I recommend planning a trip to Julian during the shoulder months.

Take a guide for waterfall hikes –  If you are doing either the Three Sisters or the Cedar Creek, it is best to get a ranger or a guide with you since the trail can be confusing, and also it is steep and challenging.

Motion Sickness –  If you are coming from San Diego by car, the winding road can get a bit windy, causing motion sickness. It is best to take proper precautions if you are prone to car or motion sickness. 

Also, do not drink and drive as alcohol and winding mountain roads do not go well together. Avoid drinking hard cider or wine and driving at the same time.

Do apple picking early in the day –  If you are planning a day trip from San Diego to Julian, I suggest apple picking be your first activity since you will have to deal with lots of crowds. It is best to be at the orchards at the time of their opening.

Cell service can be spotty  – On the way to Julian and at some national park reserves and trails, there can be no service or spotty network coverage. It is best to download directions and keep offline maps handy ahead of time so you can navigate with them in case of no cell service.

If you are in Julian during the fall months, you will love the fruits season, including apples, pears, strawberries and raspberries.

Winter in Julian is a great time to visit if you are looking for snow destinations in California.

I recommend packing layers irrespective of when you plan to visit as the weather gets chilly, especially after sunset.

WHAT TO PACK

Since Julian has proper seasons unlike most of the rest of Southern California, it is best to pack appropriately according to the season of your visit.

I’d recommend bringing the following, with some being common across all seasons, and some being season-appropriate.

OTHER ITEMS

• Hiking Boots 
• Camping Sleeping Bag
• Wind Jacket 
• Pocket-Sized Water Filter
• Reusable food storage bags
• Ultralight First Aid Kit
• Hiking Leggings

The temperatures can be foggy during the day and they drop at night as the breeze increases. 

As with camping anywhere, you need to be prepared for the unpredictability by going with many layers. Here’s what you need:

• Base Layer  –  Long Sleeve Sun-Protected Light Weight Top  +  Light Weight Hiking Pants
• Insulating Layer  –  Light Weight Pullover
• Outer Layer  –  Light Weight Windproof jacket with hood  or  Insulating Light Weight Jacket for fall/winter weather.

CAMPING ESSENTIALS

Here are some of the camping essentials you need:

• Cooler for food and water –  U ltra Travel Cooler
• Camping Chair  –  Quad Camping Chair
• Camping Cot –  Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed with Side Tables and Battery Operated Pump
• Sleeping Bags  –  Brazos Cold Weather Sleeping Bag
• Sleeping Tents –  Ultralight Tent 3-Season Backpacking Tent 1 Person/2 Person Camping Tent
• Camping Lantern –  Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern
• Reusable Water Bottle   +  Light Weight Water Filter

Camping essentials for preparing food:

The best one I’d recommend is this  Outdoor Master Cook Portable Folding Camp Kitchen  along with this  Light Weight Cook Ware  and  Backpacking Gas Stove Burner .

OTHER ESSENTIALS

Even if you aren’t into photography, you may want to bring a camera with a good lens. I own a  Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70S   that I carry while camping since I prefer lightweight gear instead of my  Nikon D850  which I use regularly.

WHERE TO STAY IN JULIAN?

If you are not planning a day trip from San Diego, you can spend the weekend in Julian as there are many accommodation options for all types of travelers.

Here are my top recommendations.

BEST HOTELS IN JULIAN

Julian Gold Rush Hotel –   This is a top place many tourists favoured. This lavish hotel comes with a terrace and a beautiful garden.  Check prices to book here .

Wikiup Hummingbird Hotel  –  Wikiup Hummingbird Hotel  is an excellent pick if you are traveling with kids as they have spacious suites and incredible views.  Check prices here .

APARTMENTS, RESORT AND SPA

Oakzanita Springs Camping Resort Cottage 4  – If you are looking for a rustic stay with your family, I recommend Oakzanita Springs Camping Resort Cottage , located in Descanso in the California region, known for its well-made suites and located in an excellent place.  Check details and availability here.

Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat & Spa –  This 4-star hotel has luxurious amenities, including a pool and playrooms. All lavishly decorated suites come with a patio.  Check details and availability here.

Riviera Oaks Resort By Diamond Resorts –  Nestled in the San Vicente Valley, Riviera has beautiful one to two-bedroom villas. Check more here.

San Vicente Golf Resort –  If you want to indulge in Golf during your trip, San Vicente Golf Resort is a fantastic place, especially with your family. Check further details here.

Kokopelli’s Hideaway –   If you plan to stay close to Anza Borrego Desert State Park. This is an excellent place, but note that it is further away from Julian. Check prices here.

CAMPGROUNDS

Depending on the distance, and the type of campsites you prefer, you can camp at the following sites close to Julian. 

Note that you need a permit, and it is best to book your spot months in advance to secure your site. Check availability and booking by clicking on the links below.

Pinezanita RV Park & Campgrounds ,  Lake Cuyamaca Recreation Area , and  Cuyamaca Rancho State Park .

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JULIAN?

Julian is an ideal destination that you can visit any time of the year. It is one of the few places in Southern California where a hint of the four seasons can be experienced.

Temperatures reach higher highs and lower lows than they do in the coastal part of California.

Julian’s weather is quite different from most parts of San Diego County. At an altitude of over 4000 feet above sea level, it snows there lightly in winter.

I recommend visiting Julian at different seasons to experience the town different and more beautiful in each season.

If you are visiting during winter and early spring, be prepared for some snow and below-freezing temperatures.

During springtime, you will witness beautiful wildflowers. Spring is a great time for hiking and heading to waterfalls.

Summer is fantastic for hiking, picnic, camping, and all outdoor activities.

HOW TO REACH JULIAN?

By car –  Julian is located in San Diego County, about 60 miles from the city of San Diego. The easiest way to get from San Diego to Julian is by car.

You can reach Julian in about 2 to 1.5 hours or less depending on where you are in the San Diego area and the traffic, mostly on I-8 E and CA-79 N. 

I recommend arriving by car since the journey is beautiful, passing through the winding road offering stunning panoramas.

By flight –  San Diego International Airport is the nearest airport located in San Diego, about 60 miles from Julian. From there, you can rent a cab to reach Julian.

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A Simple Julian CA Day Trip Itinerary

Posted by Savvy Cali Girl Contributing Author | Jan 27, 2020 | Places To Go | 3

Julian, California

Just an hour drive inland from the heart of San Diego lies Julian CA. This town is the quintessential day trip and is a popular destination. A throwback in time to small-town living with a thriving Main Street and quaint diners, turns into a mile-long traffic jam when it snows. If you’ve lived in a place where snow isn’t unique, this phenomenon will amuse you. If you’ve never seen snow, it will delight you.

Regardless – from apple picking to hiking (and snowball fights in-between!), a Julian CA day trip has something for everyone.

**Disclaimer**

The businesses and events highlighted are in no way a “Best Of…” list. They are simply places and activities our Savvy Cali Girl contributors have deemed worthy of a shout out. If you want us to tell our readers about your favorite place, tag us with #scgplacestogo and we’ll catch you next time we come through town!

Grab Your Morning Mojo at the Julian Cafe & Bakery

www.juliancafe.com

This space has a long history of businesses, beginning with a general store in 1872. After multiple owners, it has eventually become what we know now as Julian Cafe.

Fun Fact!  Julian CA is the first stop for every local San Diego news crew at the first sign of snow.

Home of the famous Julian apple pie, this quaint little cafe has a number of ways to wake you up, including a glass of hot caramel apple cider! Make sure to stop here for coffee, breakfast, cider or pie.

Miner’s Diner Has Your Eats & Treats in Julian

www.minersdinerjulian.com

This all-american 50’s style diner’s history is as long as its menu! Miner’s Diner offers breakfast, lunch, and a rather impressive amount of desserts.

If you’re on a Julian CA day trip and stop by for breakfast, try the Chicken Fried Steak. For lunch, grab the Miner’s Melt. Or wrap up your day trip with dessert – indulge in a classic Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae or try an Ice cream Soda from the Soda Fountain. 

Whatever you choose, it’ll have the authenticity of Julian hometown cooking, guaranteed!

Call Ahead! Because Julian CA is primarily a destination town, some of the businesses are closed on Monday and Tuesday so their employees can have some time off. Call ahead to make sure the places on your itinerary will be open on the day you’re planning to visit!

Fun in the Sun in Julian, California

Eagle & High Peak Mine

www.theeaglemining.com

This old-fashioned gold mine will really bring you back to the 1870’s.

With a town this rich in history, it’s a necessity to learn more about Julian even if you’re just visiting for the day. The Eagle & High Peak Mine is the perfect place to do it.

They offer tours for the original amount of $10 – a price set in 1968!

Explore the tunnels and learn about the history of Julian, California while you’re at it!

Commune with Nature

California Wolf Center in Julian

www.californiawolfcenter.org

If you want to get outdoors on your Julian CA day trip, this is the place for you!

The California Wolf Center aims to return wild wolves to their natural habitats.

Their physical center in Julian hosts several packs of gray wolves, including one pack of North American gray Wolves. They also have multiple packs of Mexican gray wolves.

There are three different tours offered ranging from $20-$50 per person but kids are free under four. Click here for the most current tour details.

If you can’t visit in person, but feel like supporting this cause, there is a link to donate on their website!

Rest & Recharge

Tucker Peak Lodge Photo via Facebook

Tucker Peak Lodge

Www.tuckerpeaklodge.com.

If you find yourself not wanting to go home at the end of your Julian CA day trip, Tucker Peak Lodge is a beautiful rustic lodge home nestled atop a hill.

The lodge offers six different private rooms with three large shared common areas. Bring the entire family and rent the whole place to enjoy a getaway that everyone will remember! The lodge also has a gorgeous deck and a fully stocked kitchen.

Now, if you’re thinking to yourself “I don’t want to take care of a home while on vacation!”, don’t sweat it. The lodge comes with a full-time innkeeper and concierge services.

If you want the hometown feel of Julian, Tucker Peak Lodge gives you that – with all the amenities of a hotel!

San Diego Series: More California Towns To Explore

There is far more to explore along San Diego’s coastline. There are marvelous little neighborhoods up and down the coast worth exploring. In addition, there are areas all across San Diego \. Below are just a few other post we’ve published on San Diego.

What To Do When You Want To Chill Out In Coronado

Downtown San Diego: An All-American Day In The East Village

La Jolla Is The Jewel of San Diego’s Stunning Coastline

About The Author

Savvy Cali Girl Contributing Author

Savvy Cali Girl is comprised of a handful of contributors who appreciate and embody the spirit of California. We've banded together to showcase everything we love about the Golden State because we have a shared passion for writing, fun, travel, and entrepreneurship. Our goal is to help you experience California to its fullest and live a balanced life while doing it. ​ We'll provide creative inspiration for savvy ways to do business, fun things to enjoy, and places to visit along the way. As a lifelong California native, you may even find a few insider tips. Don't be surprised if travel becomes a focus as restrictions loosen!

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Some great spots to visit! I love California, enjoyed your post!

Mark / Mark’s Travel Journal https://www.markstraveljournal.me

Thanks so much Mark! It’s easy to write about California because it’s an amazing place. We appreciate the feedback.

This is article you shared great information i have read it thanks for providing such a Blog for reader.

Best regards, Harrell Raahauge

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The best things to do, see and eat in Julian for the perfect mix of old and new

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Julian may be known as an autumn and winter escape from San Diego, but this small town offers visitors more than enough to keep busy all year long.

Julian’s modern history dates back to 1869 during the California Gold Rush , when the valuable commodity was discovered in a Julian creek bed. The next year, ex-Confederate soldier Drury Bailey, who traveled to California in the hopes of settling somewhere new, established it as a town, naming it after his cousin, Mike Julian. Visitors seeking history today can take advantage of Julian’s Pioneer Museum and keep an eye out for the historical placards posted along Main Street for information about the town’s origins.

But Julian has come a long way from its mining days; still a small town — home to about 1,300 people — Julian has found a way to mix the old with the new in a charming and relaxed setting. While it’s lost some of its classic shops over the years, including the iconic hardware store and feed store , new businesses are making their mark.

About an hour from downtown San Diego, Julian can make for a day trip or weekend getaway, with lodging at places like the Julian Gold Rush Hotel or Julian Lodge. There’s also camping in the nearby Anza-Borrego Desert and Cuyamaca Rancho state parks. You’ll have a much easier time finding parking on the weekdays, since most people visit on Saturdays and Sundays, but note that many businesses are only open on the weekends.

Think we missed something? Let us know what else should have been on our list by emailing us here.

Calico Cidery

Crow and Lilac Gallery and Boutique

Jeremy's on the hill.

Julian Beer Company

Julian cider mill.

Julian Pie Company

Juliantla Chocolate Boutique

Miner's diner, regulars wanted beanery.

Reveille Coffee

The Old Julian Garage

Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve’s Five Oak Trail

The Complete Travel Guide to Julian, California

The Julian Cafe & Bakery in downtown Julian.

The Julian Soap Company in downtown Julian.

Just an hour's drive from sunny San Diego toward the mountains, and you find yourself in a completely different world. Julian is a tiny town – just a few streets and nearby farms and ranches. Because of its location in the mountains, there is a much brighter sense of seasonality – the heat in summer, yellow and red leaves in fall, snow in winter, and flowers in spring.

Tourists love coming to Julian, especially during the fall season, because it is one of the few places in Southern California where you can see colorful fall foliage. Combined with the beautiful scenery, it is also a great place to vacation out of town.

Another reason why Fall is great for visiting Julian is that it is apple picking season. Since the town's culture is associated with pies, this dish is a must-try. In Julian, they are baked and sold hot in all kinds of flavors, though the most popular, of course, is the apple pie.

We visited during the second week of November and in our pictures you can see all the holiday festivities and colorful fall foliage. In this guide you’ll see plenty of Julian family-friendly activities and even some romantic weekend itinerary ideas for a couple’s weekend away. For the foodie fans, I’ve also included all the must-try autumn foods and deserts.

November colorful fall foliage in Julian.

The Julian Gold Rush Hotel.

Book Your Stay in Julian

Fun fact: Julian is the Bed & Breakfast capital of Southern California! There’s so many country cute and unique houses and hotels to book for your weekend getaway.

Browse these popular Julian hotel and vacation homes:

Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge

The Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge is a relaxation retreat and spa located up in the mountain and right next to the lake. Guests can enjoy calm and serenity with spa services such as massages and incredible lakeside views.

Komorebi House

The Komorebi House is probably the most modern vacation rental accommodations you can find in Julian. The minimal and sophisticated decor scheme makes for amazing backdrops for family photos (very Instagrammable!). You have amazing views and a hot tub!

Julian Gold Rush Hotel

The main appeal of the Julian Gold Rush House is the super prime location. It is located right on the main strip of downtown Julian and you can walk to restaurants and shopping stores.

Time Traveler Retreat Cabin

Cottagecore fans will fall in love with this adorable country cabin in the woods. It’s called the Time Traveler for good reason, it’s the perfect style of vintage 1950’s with warm and welcoming grandma vibes.

Outside The Warm Hearth of Julian during the holiday season.

Cute fall goods inside The Warm Hearth of Julian boutique store.

Gold Mining History of Julian, California

The gold rush began in Julian right after the American Civil War. In 1869, former slave A. E. "Fred" Coleman crossed what is now known as Coleman's Creek, west of Julian. Noticing a glimmer of gold in the creek bed, he dismounted his horse to investigate. He picked up a pan and started digging in the sand in the stream.

When others heard about the discovery, they tried to trace the origin of the gold. On 22 February 1870, the first mining claim was filed in Julian County. As 22 February was President George Washington's birthday, the mine was named the Washington Mine. Soon, hundreds of men and families rushed to Julian to make their demands.

Julian became a tent city overnight. In April 1870, the first lumber mill in the area was built, and Julian began to acquire a more permanent structure. The owners of the Cuyamaca Rancho Land Grant claimed that Julian and its mines were within the boundaries of the Rancho. A court ruled in 1873 that the Rancho did not include Julian and its mines.

While the miners were trying to dig the gold out of the ground, James Madison was taking a wagonload of young apple trees into the mountains. Apples are still an important product of Julian, and many of them are used to make the world-famous apple pies.

Main Street in downtown Julian.

The Modern Day Town of Julian, California

Although popular for its apples and excellent pies, Julian has become a hub for visitors who want to stay in the mountains but take day trips to the nearby casinos, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and the coast. Known as the bed and breakfast capital of Southern California, it is fast becoming an excellent destination for families, hiking, weddings, and corporate outings.

The historic streets are lined with specialty stores, and the attractions are unique. From wineries to a wolf sanctuary – it seems to have it all. Julian offers plenty of vintage fun for couples, families, and groups of all ages. A year-round calendar of unique events, including Old Time Melodrama, Gold Rush Days, Fourth of July Parade, Grape Stomp Fest, and more, awaits curious visitors.

Apple Alley Bakery in downtown Julian.

Family-Friendly Things To Do in Julian

Julian is a very popular place for San Diego city folks to take their kids for the weekend. There’s a very wholesome country vibe and plenty of things to do with children of all ages.

Apple Picking in Julian

Apple pies are the emblem of this country town, and the first event of the autumn season is the apple picking in Julian. This activity is equally fun for adults and children. The apple picking season usually lasts from mid-September to the end of October. Each apple orchard opens on different days depending on when the apples are ripe and closes when the apples are finished. One top tip is to visit the orchards as soon as they open. If you wait too long, you might miss the season!

There are about 5-6 apple orchards around Julian that are tracked on Julian's website . Keep this site bookmarked as it includes updates on each orchard, as well as hours of operation, prices, and other helpful information.

A truly beautiful place is Volcan Valley Apple Farm . It is huge – an added bonus is that there is plenty of parking, which is excellent for those traveling with many family members.

The season here begins September 11, and the hours of operation are pretty flexible – Friday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Make sure to arrive as early as possible, ideally right before it opens! You will avoid the crowds and get better parking.

Funky gifts from The Old Julian Garage shop.

Julian Mining Company

History buffs join the tours organized by Julian Mining Company and learn more about Colonial Era, Civil War, Gold Rush, and more.

On weekends, travelers can attend activities such as gold prospecting, gems, tomahawk throwing, and candle making and visit their farm animals – chickens, pigs, goats, and even donkeys. In the fall, Julian Mining company offers corn, pumpkin, and gourd picking, apple cider pressing, hay rides, and several Harvest Hoedown events.

This would definitely be one of the most fun, kid-friendly things to do in Julian! My husband grew up in San Diego and he has fond memories of school field trips to the Julian Mining Company as a child.

The Julian Market and Deli where you can pick up sandwiches and snacks.

Handmade wooden signs in downtown Julian.

Oasis Camel Dairy

While being in Julian, you have a chance to visit a wonderful family farm – a place to put on the top of the to-do list of your family-friendly trip. At the farm, you can meet and feed camels and other fascinating animals. Mother camels raise their own cubs in naturally large pastures. On the farm, they use their milk to create skincare products. Camel milk soap, lotion, bath bombs, lip balms, and camel milk serums are lovingly handcrafted on this family's farm.

Menghini Winery Tasting Room.

Horseback Riding in Julian, California

Warner Springs Ranch Resort and Riding Stables will take you into the past and give you a real taste of the Old West. You can ride all year round, and you do not have to worry about your experience or lack of it, as their riding programs are designed for all levels of riders, from beginners to advanced riders.

So whether you are an old-timer or meeting horses for the first time, Warner Valley Horse Riding Stables is sure to give you exciting, adventure-filled memories that will last a lifetime!

Moreover, the surrounding area is also magnificent. The ninety-minute walks will take you past historic sites, through old oak groves, and a variety of landscapes. You will have a chance to observe wildlife, including coyotes, bobcats, deer, and hawks, as you walk through their natural habitat.

Julian Beer Company BBQ restaurant.

Fort Cross Farm Tours and Petting Zoo

Fort Cross is a family farm with hands-on outdoor education for all ages. Originally focused on living history, it now offers programs and private activities that include art, survival skills, music, team building, and agricultural workshops. And of course there’s the popular petting zoo.

This experience is not just for kids but for people of all ages, so everyone can dive into the adventurous side when visiting Julian.

Julian Beer Company Barn and Brewery.

The Old Julian Jail

On a hill near the center of town stands a reliquary, preserved jail house from the days when this tiny town was a thriving gold mining site. Julian's Prison was built in 1914. Earlier wooden versions on the site date back to the 1870s. The current concrete structure is a quiet and little-known spot for sightseers who often come to Julian for entertainment.

Looking behind the heavy iron door is a sobering thought for adults and a history lesson for children. The prison is about 17 feet long, 14 feet wide, and 10 feet high and has two cells. Despite the sometimes-icy mountain temperatures, conditions of imprisonment were probably not too bad. In fact, it was equipped with one of the first indoor toilets in the city.

Prisoners were driven to San Diego if they had to serve long sentences. The doors were locked with a heavy iron key, used for decades by the various Julian residents who tended the prison. Now the jail is owned by the Julian Community Services District, and the historical society maintains it.

Each morning, a resident of Julian, Danny Baker, who lives nearby, opens the jail and closes it every evening, 365 days a year. He has been doing so for more than 30 years. From time to time, Baker adds a touch of humor to the prison by decorating it for Halloween. He attaches a skeleton or mannequin to one of the beds and hangs spiders and ghosts from the ceiling. Each cell still has a bunk, sink, and toilet.

Julian Beer Company and The Bailey House.

Julian Tea & Cottage Arts

When visiting Southern California, do not miss the opportunity to see the charming home built in 1898 for gold miner Clarence King. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts is located in the historic gold mining town with authentic Old West-style buildings. There you will find a full range of stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic, and glass teapots and tea accessories. A huge assortment of teas, both bagged and loose-leaf, can be purchased at the tea store as well. Be sure to check out the full list of tea offerings on their website and call or email to place your order.

Boutique stores in downtown Julian.

Julian Beer Company vintage stage coach.

Places for Hiking and Picnics in Julian

After a long day of fun of adventuring in nature, what better way to slow down and relax than with some delicious picnic food.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Many winter visitors from other states come to Anza-Borrego to escape the cold and enjoy the mild temperatures of the Californian desert. In December and February, the maximum temperature is 60 degrees, and the minimum is 40 degrees. In April and May, temperatures quickly rise to 80 degrees and begin to reach triple digits in June.

Under favorable conditions, the desert floor can look like a carpet of colorful wildflowers. Flowering in Anza Borrego depends on winter rains but can usually be seen in March and April.

Another exciting activity in Anza-Borrego is seeing the famous art sculptures. This can be a particularly rewarding activity for children. The Galleta Meadow Statues are a massive permanent art installation by Ricardo Breceda in the desert near Borrego Springs.

Scattered across the desert sands are thirty life-size sculptures. Many of the statues are right by the road, so you will notice them as you drive by.

Julian Pie Company.

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is the place where Californians can enjoy quality outdoor recreation such as hiking, picnic sites, swimming water holes, equestrian activities and camping. The Cuyamaca Rancho State Park natural landscape has welcoming grassy valleys and rock formations, an easy terrain for families.

Inaja Memorial Picnic Site

Another significant outdoor recreation place in Julian is the Inaja Memorial Picnic Site. The area was created in memory of the 11 firefighters who died fighting the 60,000-hectare Inaja Fire in 1956.

In addition to the beautiful mountain scenery, the quiet and peaceful environment creates the perfect setting for an afternoon family picnic, with connecting trails and interactive activities to explore the surroundings and scenic spots.

Pie toppings at the Julian Pie Company.

Jess Martin Park

Adventuring together with your furry friend? Don't miss the Jess Martin Park – a 9-acre park where dogs on leashes can walk with their owners on a footpath and run off-lead in a specially fenced area. This beautiful public park offers many recreational opportunities for families, from picnics to roller-skating.

Whether you want to play ball in the playground or work your heart out on the public track, Jess Martin Park has something for everyone.

Cider donuts at the Julian Pie Company.

Lake Cuyamaca Recreation & Park District

Cuyamaca Lake offers a variety of activities such as boating, fishing, camping, hiking, tent camping, bird watching, and picnicking. This is the ultimate destination for relaxation and reconnection with nature. Spending time at the lake will certainly rejuvenate you and entertain the little ones.

Family lunch at the Julian Beer Company.

Things To Do During Your Romantic Getaway in Julian

If you choose Julian for a romantic weekend getaway, there are plenty of ways adults can entertain themselves, especially when it comes to sophisticated wine tasting.

One Heart Massage & Reiki

Getting a massage is definitely a very memorable experience, especially when you’re on a relaxing vacation. It is always a great gift, a very rewarding way to pamper yourself, or a lovely activity to enjoy with your partner.

When you book a session with One Heart, you can relax knowing everything has been thought of. Justine, who will be giving the massage, tailors every treatment to each client's individual needs.

After your visit, be sure to purchase organic leaf teas, tinctures, candles, and more.

Ribs, cornbread and maple butter from the Julian Beer Company.

Julian Station

Pay a visit to the Julian Station property, which is managed by husband-and-wife Albert Lewis and Lydia Frausto. The historic collection of buildings includes several unique antiques, local artwork shops, four different wine, beer, cider tasting rooms, and yoga and teaching arts center.

Julian Station hosts music nights featuring a different local artist each week. This is certainly one of the most fun places to include in your romantic weekend getaway in Julian.

Julian Hard Cider Tasting

Julian Hard Cider is a local favorite brewery and they make innovative hard cider flavors such as Harvest Apple, Cherry Bomb, Black and Blue with blueberries and blackberries, Razzmatazz with raspberry, Apple Pie with autumn spices, Pearanormal with pears, Freaky Tiki with pineapple, and Tiki Torch with pineaaple, key lime and habanero peppers.

At their tasting room you can order apple cider flights for the chance to try out multiple flavors. Their tasting room is located at 4470 Julian Rd, Julian, CA 92036.

Stargazing in Julian

Julian is a famous stargazing spot in California because of the dark skies which are far from the city lights of San Diego. Every year, Julian hosts a stargazing festival, where experienced astronomers guide curious visitors. This star tour can be taken using the many telescopes set up in the observation deck. In addition, experts will be on hand to answer any questions you have about what you are looking at.

Top Wineries in Julian, California

No one can argue that a wine tasting paired with a cheese platter and delicate finger foods doesn't sound like a dream. So plan a surprise trip to one of these incredible wineries for you and your partner to spend a romantic day together.

Volcan Mountain Winery

Julian's newest tasting room offers samples of the winery's sparkling cider, white, red, rose, and dessert wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, and Sangiovese. A picnic is served on the winery grounds at the foot of Volcan Mountain.

Menghini Winery

This winery, located in the Julian Gardens, produces Chardonnays, Cabernets, Sauvignons Blancs, Merlots, and Muscat per year. It offers a variety of wines for tasting, so all you have to do is visit the shop to buy cheese and olives, which will be a great addition to the wines.

Winter Snow Trip to Julian, California

I've mentioned that Julian is a popular autumn season destination, but you can actually visit during the winter holiday months for a completely unique snow experience.

William Heise Park

Located in the mountains of East County, 4,200 feet above sea level, William Heise County Park is one of the few parks in San Diego County that gets snow every year. Southern California residents in San Diego and Los Angles can drive up to the park for a snow trip during the winter months. Forests of oak, pine, and cedar surround quiet mountain meadows and create an unspoiled environment for nearly 11 miles of scenic natural landscape.

Foods to Try in Julian

No trip to this small country town would be complete without trying some of the local foods Julian is famous for. This is certainly not the place to be on a diet or counting calories, Julian is where we indulge in all those comforting fall foods we love during the autumn season.

Cider Donuts & Apple Cider

Walking along the Julian main street, you will see many shops selling the cider donuts and fresh apple cider next to their pies. These are mostly only available during the apple picking season to the end of the year. Cider donuts are a fall season delicacy with a cakey consistency, cinnamon and cloves spices and finished with sugar. And of course it pairs well with a fresh glass of apple cider, or a nice warm hot chocolate.

Locally made artisan foods inside The Warm Hearth of Julian boutique store.

Where to Get Pie in Julian, California

In Julian you will find so many different versions or apple pie, you will be amazed at the variety. You can also try all kinds of toppings on your pie… including the surprising cheddar cheese!

Mom's Pie House

During our visit to Julian we sat down inside Mom’s Pie House and enjoyed a slide of Dutch apple pie with sides of cinnamon and vanilla ice cream. Inside the restaurant it was very grandma-style cottage cute with wooden booths and country wall paper. Scroll down to see photos from our visit.

Have you ever tasted apple pie with sharp cheddar cheese? If that sounds tempting, try it at and Mom's Pie House (also available at Julian Pie Co.). Or you can top your pie with whipped cream, caramel or ice cream.

On the menu at Mom’s Pie House you’ll find all kinds of pie flavors including a variety of apple pies, pecan, chocolate pecan, pumpkin, blueberry, cherry, rhubarb strawberry, and even a savory chicken pot pie. They also serve lunch sandwiches and soup.

Julian Pie CoMpany

The Julian Apple Pie Company is a dedicated pie factory with a very wide selection of pies. You can order a pie slice with toppings, or you can take an entire pie with you on the go. During the Thanksgiving and holiday season, many folks stock up on their pies and bring them home to share.

While they have 22 pie flavors on their menu, a few of my favorites are caramel dutch apple, peach, boysenberry and apple mountain berry pie.

Apple Alley Bakery

The Apple Alley Bakery serves both lunch and bakery sweet treats. Popular menu items include the chili pot pie made with sweet corn meal crust, apple strudel and turnovers, cinnamon rolls, tarts and apple cider.

Where to Eat in Julian

Of course pies are delicious but not the only option for satisfying your hunger. If you want to sit and eat a hardy meal, check out these popular Julian restaurants.

Julian Beer Co.

Don't miss the opportunity to take your taste buds to Julian Beer Co. Rumor has it that it makes the best homemade and comfort food in Julian. We sat down on their outdoor patio for a family lunch in downtown Julian. We had BBQ ribs, cornbread with maple butter and sides. They had a high chair for our baby which was great, very family friendly.

Dudley's Bakery

At Dudley's all products are locally made and contain no artificial preservatives. So, it is the perfect healthy option to try after indulging in all the pies. In addition to bread, they also bake cookies, monkey bread, strudels, pies, and other pastries. Moreover, their deli has an open menu, and guests are encouraged to choose their favorite tasty combination.

Locally made artisan bath, beauty and wellness products inside The Warm Hearth of Julian boutique store.

Fat Anthony's Deli

The next option for a delicious meal is Fat Anthony's Deli, a family-run Italian deli with a butcher shop, freshly baked sweets, and meats, as well as the best-smoked BBQ meat in Julian.

Here you will stumble upon fantastic sandwiches and a great market in one place. The place has been owned and served by the same family for 36 years until 2021. That means the recipes are truly original, and the flavors are irreplaceable.

Julian Cafe & Bakery

The Julian Cafe is a true restaurant with a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. They even have a Thanksgiving menu! For dessert you can chose from apple pie, apple cider float, hot giant cinnamon roll or an apple crisp.

Shopping in Downtown Julian, California

An excellent daytime activity in Julian is just to wander around the downtown and plan on eating and shopping your way through the afternoon. When visiting Julian, you will see many unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. In the historic streets of this special town, you will find arts and crafts, old-fashioned sweets, clothing, and wonderful souvenirs to take home, not only for yourself but for everyone in the family.

The Warm Hearth

The Warm Hearth is a country farmhouse chic gift shop with an enormous selection of home goods. Scroll through the photos in this blog post to see some of my favorite goods I found in the boutique.

The charming shop sells eclectic home decor, locally made artisan foods, women's fashion accessories, and a wide range of seasonal products. Just beware – it will be difficult to resist all these beautiful things!

Julian Soap Company

The Julian Soap Company has been in business for over 20 years and is known for its fresh and fragrant handmade soaps. The soap is made in downtown Julian and will be a great self-care gift for your loved one.

The Old Julian Garage

If you like weird and wacky things combined with hipster and cool, you found the right place. The Old Julian Garage is great for choosing gifts for family and friends back home. You will especially find Julian souvenirs to commemorate your trip.

Mom’s Pie House.

Cinnamon ice cream from Mom’s Pie House.

Enjoy the Highlights of Julian!

Choose your own way to enjoy Julian. There is no shortage of entertainment here. The city has fresh air, beautiful scenery, hiking trails, outstanding parks, and old-fashioned architecture. Shop in historic 1870s buildings, spend the night in a romantic guesthouse or historic hotel, taste Julian's famous apple pie, and hike among the endless oaks and pines. We guarantee – it will be a magical experience!

Whole pies from Mom’s Pie House.

Cinnamon ice cream, vanilla ice cream and apple crumble pie from Mom’s Pie House.

Book Your Stay in Julian:

Julian Lodge

Time Traveler Retreat

Tucker Peak Lodge

Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat & Spa

Komorebi Vacation House

Kokopelli's Hideaway

Apple Tree Inn

Blue Bird Cottage

Wikiup Hummingbird Hotel

Pine Hills Cabin in Julian

Inside Mom’s Pie House.

Apple crumble pie from Mom’s Pie House.

Old Julian Jail House.

See More Fun Things To Do in Southern California:

Best Baby and Kid-Friendly Things to Do in San Diego

The Instagram Travel Guide to Palm Springs

13 Hidden Secret Spots in Joshua Tree National Park

Travel Guide to Dana Point and San Clemente

The Modern Gal's Guide to Escondido, California

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Apple Picking Crew T-Shirts

These Apple Picking Crew T-Shirts come in the perfect fall colors and would make super cute family photos while apple picking in Julian.

Cider Donut Season T-Shirt

I have a hardcore love for cider donuts and you can only find them in special places like Julian and Apple Hill in Norcal . They are one of the most special things about the fall season.

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How cute would this tee be in a photo holding a box of famous Julian apple pie?! Intagrammable for sure!

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Weekend Roadtrippers

Adventure Awaits!

A Day Trip to Julian, CA

Nestled in the picturesque mountains of San Diego County, Julian is a charming historic town that comes alive with fall foliage and a cozy atmosphere. Julian is renowned for its apple orchards and the delicious apple pies made from the locally grown fruit. Visitors often indulge in freshly baked apple pies, cider, and other apple-infused treats. My parents and I recently visited for the first time this Autumn. Here’s how we spent the day along with some tips and recommendations to help you plan a trip! Enjoy!

Hiking Stonewall Peak

We began our day by heading to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park to conquer Stonewall Peak. The trailhead is just a short drive from Julian, and the hike offers an easy/moderate accent with a rewarding payoff. The final stretch requires you to climb granite steps, offering panoramic views all the way up to the summit.

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Lunch at Julian Beer Company

After our hike up Stonewall Peak, we rewarded ourselves with beer and pizza at Julian Beer Co. We sat out on the patio and enjoyed the beautiful Autumn weather, Julian Beer Co boasts a diverse selection of brews, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, and their pizza and BBQ is delicious. It was so packed on a Saturday but we were surprised how quickly we were still able to get our food.

Explore Downtown

The heart of the town is lined with historic buildings and quaint storefronts. After lunch, we spent a little time shopping around Main Street, where you’ll discover everything from antique treasures to locally crafted goods. Julian is particularly known for its art galleries, showcasing the work of talented local artists. Don’t miss the opportunity to pop into the various specialty shops offering handmade crafts, artisanal souvenirs, and, of course, more delicious apple treats.

No visit to Julian is complete without treating your taste buds to a slice of heaven from the renowned Julian Pie Company. From classic apple pie to mouthwatering combinations like apple-berry or Dutch apple caramel, the Julian Pie Company offers a slice of perfection for every palate. Whether you choose to enjoy your slice on-site with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or take a whole pie home to share, the sweet, flaky goodness of Julian Pie Company’s creations is a quintessential part of the Julian experience. Pro Tip: they actually have a second location you can find on your way out of the town that typically has a shorter line than the one on Main Street!

More Things to Do

Julian Pie Company was our final stop, but here are a few other top activities to check out if you have the time!

Apple Picking: Several orchards in the area allow visitors to handpick their favorite varieties of apples, creating a memorable and family-friendly activity. Whether you’re searching for the perfect ingredients for a homemade pie or just want to enjoy the satisfaction of plucking apples straight from the tree, this seasonal delight adds a touch of harvest magic to your Julian adventure. Check with local orchards for their picking schedules, as the apple harvest season typically peaks in the fall, making it an ideal time to engage in this traditional and enjoyable activity.

Wine Tasting: Explore the local wineries around Julian and savor the flavors of regional wines. Some wineries offer tastings in a picturesque setting, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding vineyards.

Ghost Tours: Given its rich history, Julian has its share of tales and legends. Consider taking a ghost tour to delve into the town’s spooky past. Knowledgeable guides share stories of the paranormal, adding a unique and eerie dimension to your visit.

Eagle and High Peak Mine Tour: Gain insight into Julian’s gold rush history by taking a guided tour of the Eagle and High Peak Mine. Venture underground to explore the tunnels and learn about the challenges faced by miners during this pivotal period.

Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve: If hiking Stonewall Peak has left you craving more outdoor adventure, consider exploring the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. The trails offer a chance to connect with nature and enjoy breathtaking views of the San Diego backcountry.

A day trip to this small town in the fall is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the season’s beauty, savor local flavors, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply in search of a tranquil escape, Julian, CA, offers a quintessential autumn experience that will have you leaving (and probably stuffed or on a sugar overload).

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Your Guide To A Fall Day In Julian

Only about an hour drive from San Diego, the beautiful town of Julian is tucked away in the Cuyamaca Mountains.

Known for their beautiful trails, ‘San Diego’ snowy days, agriculture and apple-flavored everything, Julian is the perfect day trip to embark on this fall!

Feel like you don’t know enough about this town to spontaneously hop to it? Don’t worry, Type As 😉 , we’ve put together a quick guide to get you on this sweet day-cation in no-time!

Your Guide To A Day In Julian

If you haven’t heard of the town Julian and you are local, you have most likely had one of their famous apples and apple pies. The town is lined with orchards and pie shops, attracting tons of tourists.

Julian Apple Days Festival

In fact, apples are such a big thing up here, they even have their own weekend! The annual  Julian Apple Days Festival  has grown over the years, and is now the talk of the town!

The festival is filled with apples (duh), foods, games, activities, and even a Mr. & Mrs. Apple King & Queen, who get crowned at the festival!

The weekend of Saturday, September 23rd to Sunday, September 24th is when you can catch all the fun.

Apple Picking

When the infamous Apple Days Festival isn’t happening, apple-picking is still one of the staple things to do in Julian. There are seven different orchards that offer “U-pick apples,” some of which are organic!

The main apple picking season is late July through early October, but some orchards close early when their crops are all out.

Peacefield Orchard , which is an all-organic farm, brings their guests on farm tours, as well as educates them about the right type of apples to pick and which are the sweetest.

They are convinced the sweetest apples are the ones that you will find worms in (eeeeek)! They even have their guests do a taste test and determine it for themselves!

This orchard is one of the first to close during the apple season, which is common with organic farms. Since they are not using any bug repellent, a large amount of their apples get affected by the bugs, which means there are less apples to be picked.

Peacefield only takes reservations, so plan accordingly if you would like to visit!

The main type of apples Peacefield grows is Granny Smith apples (ideal for apple pie!)

One of the largest orchards in Julian is Volcan Valley Apple Farm . They are not an organic farm, but they allow walk-ins. They cater to a lot more people as they have over 50 rows of trees to find apples in!

Pro Tip:  Right across from this orchard is a winery, Volcan Mountain Winery . Start your day at the winery, and take a glass of wine to-go. You can stroll through the apple orchard while sipping on your wine.

The winery has two different types of white apple wine, so you get the full apple experience. They also have local apple ciders and juices that you can sip while picking apples too.

Jonathan Apples are the majority of the trees, which are classic red apples!

Cider And Cooking Tips

Along with apple picking, some other local apple activities include visiting  Julian Hard Cider , famous for their hard apple cider.

We’ve been told that many of the local cider companies will go to the nearby orchards and pick up all the apples from the ground. They test them to see if they are still juicy, and use them for their cider. Julian as a town is very eco-friendly, and they do not like to see apples go to waste!

Since tourism is big here, a lot of people will come, pick a couple of apples, and throw them on the grounds of the orchards. Luckily for the cider companies, they get these for their product, and no apples get left behind!

If you find yourself wondering what to do with all of your apples, stop by the Chamber of Commerce, or most of the big shops in town to get an apple cookbook with favorites from the apple-loving locals.

Wine Tasting

The main street in Julian is very small, but filled with local shops. In fact, it reminds me of Seaport Village (for all you locals).

There are old diners, specialty food shops, candied apples sold on the street, gold mining tours, and historic buildings to take photos with!

One of my favorite stops was another chance to have wine, because wine not? Orfila Winery (located in Escondido), has a wine tasting room in Julian. This is a perfect place that not too many people go to, if you want to relax and have a glass of wine in-between activities.

They also have meats and cheeses available to snack on.

Produce Perusing

Wynola Flats Produce , a small shop on the side of the road just before you hit the main street in Julian, has to be added to your list!

Here, you can find all local products, fruits, veggies, pumpkins, jams, jellies, honey, tomatoes sauce, apple butter, candies, chocolates, and so much more.

They also make fresh squeezed apple juice, which is beyond delicious.

A really neat thing about this place is their cooler. In the back of the shop, they have section for chilled items like fresh salad mix. This fridge is actually an old-working railroad cooler train car.

A true authentic antique, this shop is a must see gem, and you will most likely need lots of road trip snacks for the drive back!

Julian Pie Company

And here we have it. Probably the number one reason most people make the trip to Julian (and rightfully so): The Julian Pie Company !

From the second you park your car, the smell of sweet, fresh apple pie fills the air. They have seasonal favorite pies (like pumpkin-apple pie currently), in addition to their classics.

Dutch apple has always been a favorite with the crumb topping.

They also have a natural apple pie with no sweetener added. This one allows the sweetness of the apples to stand out.

They sell whole pies for take out or in-shop eating, in addition to slices of pie which can be enjoyed there or taken to go as well!

Bonus: Next to the pie shop is a famous bread and sandwich shop called Dudley’s . Pop on over while you are here for countless unique flavors of homemade breads like Jalapeno Cheddar, Irish Potato and so much more (yes, we’re drooling) !

There San Diego

Quiz: Which San Diego Adventure is Right for You? 

JULIAN DAY TRIPS FROM SAN DIEGO

The ultimate day trip to julian, ca.

Now I know the city of San Diego is considered to be “America’s Finest City,” however sometimes you may want to experience what is just outside of this city. Maybe you are looking to see some Fall leaves or maybe you even want to see some snow! Well, there are some amazing day trips that are only about an hour away. One of the best day trips from San Diego is Julian. 

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

What is julian, ca.

Julian is a cute little gold mine town that creates for the perfect day or even a weekend escape from San Diego. You will totally get the small-town vibes from here. Don’t expect to be staying up partying all night as this town heads to bed around 8 pm. 

However, if you are looking for the perfect day date, weekend getaway or girls day then head to Julian, CA. People started visiting Julian way back in the 1800s hoping to find gold. As the gold rush century came to an end the people ended up staying and have now made this into a charming and quaint little town. 

WHERE IS JULIAN LOCATED AND HOW TO GET THERE? 

Julian, CA is located in the Laguna mountains just about 9 miles from Lake Cuyamaca. It sits at an elevation of 4,200 ft. Julian is about a 1hr 15min drive East of San Diego, therefore this makes it one of the best day trips from San Diego. 

From San Diego, you will follow signs for the I-8 East towards El Centro. Take exit 40 for CA-79 N toward Julian. You will be on this road for about 23 miles. Turn left on Main St. to arrive in the town of Julian.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN JULIAN?

You may be asking, when is the best time to visit Julian? Honestly, there is never a bad time to visit Julian. If you are looking for seasons in San Diego then this is the place to be. You can experience every type of weather in Julian depending on the time you visit. Read below for more detailed information on seasonal weather in Julian, CA. 

Spring -Springtime is one of the quieter seasons in Julian, so if you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life then head to Julian in the spring. 

Summer -This is the perfect time to bring a picnic basket up to Julian and enjoy the day outside in the warm weather air. 

Fall -Enjoy all the fun Fall activities. You can experience jumping in the beautiful Fall leaves, go apple picking, and enjoy the crisp and cold nights.

Winter -Enjoy hiking in the snow or sledding down some small mountains. Makes sure to check the weather prior to going to see if you need to prepare for snow or not.

JULIAN DAY TRIPS FROM SAN DIEGO: THINGS TO DO

According to the main Julian website ,  “the town of Julian features a number of events throughout the year.

1. HIKING IN JULIAN, CA

There are a numerous amount of hiking trails around Julian, but the most scenic one would have to be Stonewall Peak in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. This is the perfect hike for adults and kids. It is 4 miles roundtrip and has a steady but do-able incline. The trail is well maintained and offers great views from the top. 

Check out this hiking page for a complete list of all the hikes around Julian, California. You can find anything from a small 0.75-mile loop to an 8-mile hike.

2. JULIAN, CA APPLE PICKING  

There are plenty of apple orchards to visit, but I personally recommend you go to Apple Starr orchards . This orchard offers quite a variety of apples for you to pick. Sometimes they even have pear trees for you to pick from.

Come visit this orchard in the Fall seasons when the apples are nice and ripe. The majority of the trees have low branches so that the children can pick the apples too. What I love about this orchard is they use organic products only. Don’t forget to bring cash as this place is cash only.

Here is a list of more apple orchards if you prefer to go somewhere else.

3. WALK AROUND TOWN

As stated before, Julian is a very cute and quaint town. Make sure to spend some time walking up and down the old historic town. Visit the cute antique and local craft shops, taste-test the hot apple cider, and enjoy a beautiful day outside. 

You can pick up a self-guided tour map at the Chamber of Commerce office at the Town Hall. 

4. VISIT THE CALIFORNIA WOLF CENTER

You may not know this, but wolves have almost gone extinct in the United States. The California Wolf Center is working on recovering these endangered animals. They are dedicated to creating communities where the wolves and livestock can share the same landscape.

Enjoy a two-hour educational presentation and guided observation of the wolves. The cost of the tour is $20 and they do require a reservation in advance. I personally highly recommend this tour. It was such a fun and educational experience. 

5. GO STARGAZING

Geek out of seeing the night stars. This is a perfect activity for the kids. The Observer’s Inn offers sky tours for $30 per person. You will be able to observe the moon, comets, planets and much more through their large telescopes. If you don’t want to pay this fee then just head outside at night and take a lookup. Julian is a great place to see the Milky Way.

6. FIND SOME GOLD 

The town of Julian became popular during the gold rush era; therefore, there are some old gold mines that you can walkthrough. Head to the Eagle Mining Co . to tour two of Julian’s original gold mines. You will be lead through rock tunnels as you hear stories of what life was like in the gold rush.

If you are looking to pan for some gold then head to the Julian Mining Company. Here you can pan for real gold, visit the farm animal and see old mining equipment. 

WHERE TO EAT IN JULIAN

1. julian grille.

This is an affordable sit-down dinner place. The vibe is perfect and cozy. I ordered a hamburger and fries and my husband ordered the salmon. Per my husband, “this is one of the best salmon meals I have ever had.” And that is saying a lot because I can cook a mean salmon 😉

This restaurant is actually a cottage that was built in the 1920’s. It was a residence until the 1980’s and was then became a deli. In 1989 it became the Julian Grille. Reservations are not needed, but they are recommended. This place is also dog-friendly. 

2. JULIAN BEER COMPANY 

There are actually quite a few beer companies in Julian, but this one, in particular, is my favorite. I recommend getting a flight of beers so that you can try all the fun different flavors. They do offer food here as well, including some delicious pizza!

3. REGULARS WANTED

If you are a coffee or breakfast lover then this is the perfect place for you. This place opens early in the morning. Prepare for it to be a little crowded. 

4. MOMS PIES OR JULIAN CAFE AND BAKERY

You can’t leave town without getting a classic Julian apple pie. Mom’s pies in Julian are the most popular place to get a pie, but the line is always crazy long. I recommend heading to the Julian cafe and bakery just across the street and getting an apple crumble pie. You won’t wait in a long line and the pie is just as delicious! 

5. JULIAN DELI AND MARKET 

If you are looking for some snacks or a sandwich to take for your picnic then head to this Deli. They make delicious sandwiches and have lots of snack choices. However, if you happen to be looking for Lactaid pills in Julian, you will not find them anywhere. 

6. BLUE DOOR WINERY 

Looking for a relaxing afternoon sipping on some wine? This is the cutest little winery! They converted the old livery stables into a charming tasting room. 

THE PERFECT JULIAN DAY TRIP ITINERARY

Check out the itinerary below for a full Julian day trip from San Diego.

700am-Head out from San Diego towards Julian

815am-Arrive in Julian and make a stop at the Regulars Wanted coffee shop for some coffee and breakfast

915am-Walk around downtown Julian. Visit the unique craftsman shops

1130-Grab a sandwich and chips form the Julian Deli and Market and head to an apple orchard

1200-Have a picnic in the apple orchard then pick some apples

200pm-Head to Stonewall peak and go for a hike 

500pm-Head back into town and pick up an apple pie to take home

530pm-Grab dinner at the Julian Grille

700pm-Taste some beers from Julian Beer Company (not too many though)

830pm-Head back home (please don’t drink and drive-make sure you are safe to drive)

PLANNING TO STAY THE NIGHT?

There are a lot of cute bed and breakfasts’ in downtown Julian. You can also use Airbnb or the website VRBO to find a home away from home to stay in. Or go camping at Lake Cuyamaca as I did! If you plan to camp in the fall or winter, make sure to come prepared as the weather does drop to freezing temperatures. 

Are there bears in Julian, CA? No, there are not any bears in Julian. Beware of rattlesnakes on warm days and coyotes at night time. 

Is this a good day trip from Temecula, CA? Yes

Is this a good day trip from Los Angeles? Yes, but I would highly recommend making it a weekend trip. 

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• The Top 10 La Jolla Beach hotels

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Day trip to julian from san diego itinerary.

January 5, 2020 · In: California , San Diego , USA , WANDERLUST

The town of Julian, California makes for the perfect day trip or weekend getaway from San Diego. You can plan a trip any time throughout the year. But, my favorite times of the year are the fall (for apple picking season) and in the winter (for the Christmas decor)! Keep reading for a full day trip to Julian from San Diego itinerary .

Tips for Visiting Julian, CA

Before we get to the itinerary, let’s start with some tips for your day trip to Julian.

• Visit during the week . Especially during the high seasons (fall and winter), it’s best to visit during the week as the weekend can get insane!
• Go early. Whether you’re going during the week (or especially if you’re going on the weekend) go early. We went on a weekend and arrived around 10 and it was hard to find parking or to walk around downtown.
• Start your day in downtown Julian. You can probably guess why – but starting the day in downtown is important for avoiding those crowds mentioned earlier.

Walk down Main Street

Start your morning on Main Street. This is the heart of Julian and is where you can pick up a slice of pie, pop into shops, and grab a souvenir. Make sure to also check out the side streets as there are some hidden gems. A few of my favorite shops include:

• Old Julian Book House
• Antique Boutique
• Julian Cider Mill

Pro Tip on the pie: If you’re in town early enough, you can have some pie off the Main Street. Arrive late? You may wait in line for an hour. If the line is long, skip it and we’ll get to a little hack later in the itinerary.

Blue Door Winery

• Location: 2608 B St, Julian, CA 92036
• Hours: 12 – 5PM daily

This little winery makes you feel like you’re stopping by your neighbors house for wine. Either hang out on their patio and have a drink or stand in the tasting room. Everyone raves about their sangria because let’s be honest it’s actually that great! Blue Door Winery is perfect for couples or friends looking to take a break from exploring the area.

After leaving downtown Julian, head down the road to the next set of activities in the area.

Oasis Camel Dairy

• Location: 26757 Highway 78, Ramona, California 92065, United States
• Hours: Hours change depending on the month and time of year. Prior to hopping in the car, visit the website or give them a call for more information.
• Entrance: $10 for camel feeding, $10-$15 for camel rides

Note: The Oasis Camel Dairy is actually on the way back to San Diego (past the places below). However, they are only open certain days and certain times. Ideally you would stop here last on your way home.

Head to the farm to feed and pet camels and sheep. You can also go on a camel ride1 While this attraction is a huge hit with kids, as an adult I found it still to be a fun and unique experience.

Dudley’s Bakery

• Location: 30218 Highway 78, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070
• Hours: Fri – Sun 8AM – 5 PM, Mon & Thurs 8AM – 3PM

Dudley Bakery is an institution in the area! They are most well-known for their loaves of bread, but this also makes for a quick lunch stop if you’re looking to grab a sandwich. An added pro? They also have an adorable modern onsite shop for last minute gifts and souvenirs.

Lunch at Farmhouse 78

• Location: 30270 Highway 78, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070
• Hours: Wed – Mon 7AM – 3PM, Closed Tuesday

This new restaurant in town is a must-try! Their menu features modern twists on classic dishes, and fresh ingredients. You really do feel like you’re in a chic farmhouse.

Julian Pie Company

• Locations: 2225 Main Street, Julian, CA 92036 & 21976 Highway 79, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070
• Hours: 9AM – 5PM daily

Finish your day with some pie! Remember what I said about skipping the pie on Main Street? The Julian Pie Company also has another location in Santa Ysabel. While you’ll likely still find a line, it’s a lot shorter than the one in Julian.

For more information on Julian visit their Tourism Site .

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The ultimate road trip to Julian

Hit the road and head to san diego county’s charming mountain town — we’re sharing all the details about what to do, where to eat and drink, and where to stay..

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The historic town in San Diego County’s mountains is tiny in size, but big in charm.

Photo via Monica Garske + SDtoday

Itching to get out of town? Skip those pesky airport security lines and jump in your car for a mini road trip to Julian , our county’s charming, tiny mountain town steeped in Gold Rush history . From hiking trails and goldmine tours, to apple crumb pies at Mom’s Pies — we’re spilling all the details on how to have an unforgettable time in the cute community that also happens to be a California Historical Landmark .

Pro tip : While you can visit Julian year-round, we recommend a road trip in the spring, summer, or fall . If you visit in the winter, be sure to check road conditions via Caltrans ahead of time and pack snow chains , just in case. You should also check the weather and peek at conditions via Julian’s webcam .

The Gold Rush town still shines in the gold mining department.

Photo via @julianminingcompany

📍 Essential info

Drive time : ~1.5 hours Year city was established : ~1870 Est. population : 1,300+

🎟️ Experience

Eagle Mining Co. Experience what it was like to work in a 1870s-era goldmine through a 1-hour, family-friendly mining tour . You’ll learn about the tools of the trade, the lives of early Californians, and you’ll even get to pan for gold . Tours are available daily starting at 10 a.m.

A tour of the Eagle Mine is a must.

Photo via @drmangor

Julian Mining Company This spot offers family-friendly activities like gold panning , gem “sluicing” ( sifting through ore to find gemstones ), tomahawk throwing, and a mini mine tunnel train ride. Visit Saturday, 10-4 p.m., or Sunday, 12-4 p.m.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ryan cross (@julianminingcompany)

William Heise County Park Enjoy nearly 11 miles of scenic hiking at this 929-acre park known for its gorgeous forests of oak, pine, and cedar trees surrounded by mountain meadows. You can also stay overnight at the campground or rent a cabin .

A morning hike at William Heise County Park.

Photo via @hollychapindesigns

Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve The 5-mile, round-trip hike to the Volcan Mountain Trail summit takes about three hours to complete, but the views are gorgeous. Pro tip : Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail.

Hiking at the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve.

Photo via @2legged_mermaid

Santa Ysabel County Preserves Hikers, cyclists, and equestrians love this 4,600-acre sanctuary known for its rolling hills, wildflowers, grasslands, and oak woodlands along its 15 miles of trails . If you’re up for a challenge, try the 7-mile Kanaka Loop Trail .

Desert View Trail at William Heise County Park.

Photo via @takeahikefabigail

Julian Pioneer Museum Explore artifacts that tell the history of Julian from 1869 to the turn of the last century, and see how locals worked, cooked, and traveled. The volunteer-run museum is open Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Julian Arts Guild A showcase of works from local artists across mediums like oil painting, pottery, photography, and pastels. The gallery is only open on weekends , 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

California Wolf Center Take a guided, one-hour tour to learn about wolf conservation and see the wolves that live at this reserve. Tours are by reservation only ; check out the facility’s visitor center and nature store on B Street in downtown Julian, too.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by California Wolf Center (@californiawolfcenter)

Julian Cider Mill Shop for locally-made specialties like fresh-pressed cider made from Julian-grown apples, honey, jams, candy, dried fruits, mustards, apple butter, and more.

Local snacks for days at The Julian Cider Mill.

Photo via @thejuliancidermill

Julian Farm and Orchard This 25-acre sustainable farm offers u-pick opportunities throughout the year — depending on what’s in season — like daffodils in early spring, berries in the summer, and apples in September. You’ll also find a petting zoo, a rock climbing wall, picnic areas, and tractor-pulled hayrides.

Calico Cidery This apple and pear orchard specializes in hard ciders available by the flight, pint, or growler. Sometimes, if conditions permit , the ranch offers u-pick opportunities.

Mom’s Pie is pure happiness.

Photo via @chrysreyna

🍔 Eat and Drink

Mom’s Pie House Your first order of business while in Julian: Eat pie . Mom Anita Nichols created this concept in 1984 and it became a sweet staple of the community. The menu features flavors like apple, apple cherry, rhubarb strawberry, bumbleberry, and more — made in flakey or crumb styles . You can order pie by-the-slice or whole . It’s open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Julian Pie Company Sure, you can buy these pies at the grocery store — but they’re better straight from the source . Liz Smothers started this beloved pie shop in 1986 , and it continues to be run by her family. The mouthwatering menu features many apple pie varieties ; don’t miss the Boysenberry Apple Crumb . It’s open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Julian Station This spot features a restaurant and three tasting room experiences : Julian Hard Cider , Julian Wine & Chocolate , and The Cooler Craft Beer Tap & Tasting Room. The hub also features specialty shops , live music on the weekends ( 1-4 p.m. ), and a patio and outdoor game area with pretty mountain views . Hours vary by business.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julian Station (@julian_station)

Julian Beer Co. Hops and history ? This 6-barrel brewery and restaurant can be found at the Bailey House , the former home of Drury “Drue” D. Bailey . — the founder of Julian . The craft beer is made from hops grown onsite , and the tasting room features 18+ rotating taps . The menu boasts savory BBQ ( try the Brisket Sandwich ), pizza, and salads . It opens daily at 11 a.m.

A flight at Nickel Beer Co.

Photo via @nickelbeerco

Nickel Beer Company Founded in 2013 by the owners of O’Brien’s Pub in San Diego — Tom and Lindsey Nickel — this craft brewery offers 16 taps of beers like the Apple Pie Ale ( a beer and cider hybrid ), the Take a Hike , and Volcan IPA . Look for the green building about a half-mile east of downtown Julian; it opens at 1 p.m. Monday-Friday, and at 11 a.m. on weekends.

The Julian Grille Treat yourself to a juicy steak or seafood dish , and a cocktail or two. The patio is pup-friendly , too. It opens daily at 11 a.m.

The Julian Grille is downright dreamy.

Photo via @thejuliangrille

Golden Apple Julian Try the classic biscuit dishes for breakfast or pop in for lunch to try the burgers, sandwiches, salads, and sides . Save room for a treat at the bakery — the Julian Apple Cider Donut ( made with local cider ) is not to be missed. It’s open Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and weekends, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Karne Asada Fries at the plant-based Kali’s Garden Cafe.

Photo via @kalisgarden21

Kali’s Garden This quaint cafe specializes in plant-based dishes (we see you, Jackfruit Burger and Kali Asada Fries ), plus organic coffee, tea, and pastries. It opened in June 2023

Rongbranch Cafe Find burgers, barbecue dishes, chicken pot pies , and more at this eatery in the heart of Julian that has real country western vibes . It opens daily at 9:30 a.m., but it is closed on Tuesdays.

Mosey over here, partner — the Rongbranch Cafe.

Photo via @amyllanas

Volcan Mountain Winery The vineyard, winery, and tasting room is nestled at the base of Volcan Mountain , about 2 miles from the center of Julian, and is open Friday-Monday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Don’t miss the apple wines made from estate-grown Julian apples .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @volcanmountainwinery

Blue Door Winery This charming tasting room specializes in French and Italian reds . Its Julian location is open daily, 12-5 p.m.

Dudley’s Bakery As you drive into or out of Julian along State Route 78 in Santa Ysabel, drop into the longtime bakery for its famous fresh bread and sandwiches . There’s an espresso bar, too . It’s open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Erica Wion (@allthatglitterzxoxo)

Julian Gold Rush Hotel Established in 1897 , this historic inn touts itself as “the oldest operating hotel in Southern California.” The vintage Victorian charm runs deep — from the hotel’s veranda to the canopy beds in the rooms .

Julian Lodge Built in 1885 , this mountain retreat features 23 guest rooms and is steps away from Main Street and the tiny town’s charming shops and restaurants.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @julianlodgehotel

Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge Relaxation and wellness are at the heart of this retreat, where guests can unplug with spa treatments and enjoy the serenity of the mountains. The lodge is ~9 miles south of Julian , and many of its rooms feature views of Lake Cuyamaca .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Quiet Mind Mountain Retreat (@quietmindretreat1)

Inviting Julian Home At ~$411 per night, this 1,400-sqft, 2 BD, 2BA home for up to 10 guests features scenic views and a hot tub.

Fairytale Cabin At ~$203 per night, this 1BD, 1BA rental for up to three guests has those magical, cozy log cabin feels.

The “Inviting Julian Home” rental.

Photo via Vrbo

Magical Mountain Hideaway This quaint, 1BA cabin studio is surrounded by trees and is located about a mile from Julian. Up to two people can sleep comfortably here, at ~$160 per night.

Fantastic for Families and Pets Just one mile east of downtown Julian, this 2BD, 2BA private mountain home sleeps up to six guests , with rates starting at ~$225 per night.

Amazing Cabin with Kids Loft At ~$201 per night, this historic property with modern amenities is just steps from downtown Julian. The 1BD, 1BA home features a loft with queen and twin beds for the kids, and can accommodate up to seven guests .

Incredible Mountain Views This ~$247 per night, 4BD, 2BA , dog-friendly home can accommodate up to six guests and is less than a mile from Julian’s Main Street. It’s surrounded by pine, oak, and manzanita trees .

A-Frame Cabin Averaging ~$190 per night, this 900-sqft cabin sits high on a hill , offering views of the mountains. It has 2 BD, 1BA , and sleeps up to six guests .

🚘 Wait a minute, San Diegans. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank and stock up on road trip snacks from Venissimo Cheese . Also, bookmark this map so you have no trouble finding all of our recommendations while visiting Julian.

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Global Big Day—11 May 2024

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Be a part of birding’s biggest team! Global Big Day is an annual celebration of the birds around you. No matter where you are, join us virtually on 11 May, help celebrate World Migratory Bird Day , and share the birds you find with eBird.

Participating is easy—you can even be part of Global Big Day from home. If you can spare 5 or 10 minutes, report your bird observations to eBird online or with our free eBird Mobile app . If you have more time, submit several checklists of birds throughout the day. You never know what you might spot. Your observations help us better understand global bird populations through products like these animated abundance maps brought to you by eBird Science.

Last year, Global Big Day collected more data about birds on a single day than ever before. More than 58,000 people gathered 3.2 million bird observations on 148,000 checklists, setting new world records for a single day of birding. Will you help us make this the year we surpass 150,000 checklists on a single day?

A total of 401 species were recorded and 15,137 checklists were submitted by an incredible 9,533 eBirders in Canada – the second highest number of eBirders and checklists submitted in the world! You can explore all of the Canadian 2023 Global Big Day stats here .

How to participate

• Get an eBird account: eBird is a worldwide bird checklist program used by millions of birders. It’s what allows us to compile everyone’s reports into a single massive Global Big Day list—while at the same time collecting data to help scientists better understand birds. Sign up here. It’s 100% free from start to finish.
• Enjoy birds on 11 May: It’s that simple. You don’t need to be a bird expert or go out all day long, even 10 minutes of birding from home counts. Global Big Day runs from midnight to midnight in your local time zone. You can report what you find from anywhere in the world.
• Enter what you see and hear in eBird: You can enter your sightings via our website or download the free eBird Mobile app   to make submitting lists even easier. Please enter your checklists before 14 May to be included in our initial results announcement.
• Watch the results roll in: During the day, follow along with bird observations from more than 200 countries in real-time on our Global Big Day page .

eBird Trip Reports on Global Big Day

eBird Trip Reports are a great way to share where you went and the birds you found on Global Big Day. Simply create an eBird Trip Report for 11 May 2024. As you submit lists and upload media throughout the big day, they’ll be added to your report automatically. Send the trip report link to friends and family so they can follow along. ( Learn more about eBird Trip Reports )

Global Big Day Pro Tips

• The Cornell Lab’s free Merlin Bird ID app can help you to identify the birds you see and hear on Global Big Day.
• Use eBird Mobile Explore to find recently reported species or new places to go birding nearby.
• Take photos and sound recordings and add them to your checklist —they might end up on the Global Big Day page!
• Make your sightings more valuable:  submit complete checklists ,  keep counts of the birds that you see, and keep multiple checklists throughout the day.
• Share what you’re seeing on social media with #GlobalBigDay !

On 11 May, we hope you’ll be a part of our global birding team. Have fun, enjoy the birds you find, stay safe, and share your sightings on eBird. Because in our world, every bird counts.

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Join PlayStation Tournaments: Road to Evo and watch Evo Japan

Play for a trip to Evo in PlayStation Tournaments: Road to Evo and watch Japan’s premier fighting game tournament.

As we near the end of April, the fighting game scene truly begins to heat up. From April 27 to 29, the best of the best will gather in Tokyo to crown an Evo Japan champion. Then, players will gather for the world’s premier fighting game event, Evo 2024 in Las Vegas. Through the PlayStation Tournaments: Road to Evo program, players can compete at home and join online competitions for a chance to win a trip and showcase their skills at Evo 2024 in Las Vegas.

Win a trip to compete at Evo 24 in Las Vegas in PlayStation Tournaments: Road to Evo 2024

We’re excited to announce details for Road to Evo 2024 on PS5 Tournaments. Players worldwide are invited to compete to win a round-trip ticket to Evo in Las Vegas and play on the biggest stage in fighting games. 

Road to Evo 2024 will feature Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, Guilty Gear -Strive-, Mortal Kombat 1, The King of Fighters XV on PS5. Six regions are eligible to compete: North America, Europe, East Asia*, ANZ, and MENA. In the end, 15 PlayStation competitors will be given the opportunity to travel and compete in Las Vegas.

Players who join the PlayStation Esports Discord between April 25 to May 9 will earn a unique Evo-themed PlayStation Network avatar. To join the Discord channel, click here.

Last year’s Road to Evo champions accomplished some incredible feats battling through online and in-person challengers to reach the world’s biggest stages. We followed their journey all the way from their PlayStation consoles to the largest Evo of all time. Watch their inspiring story in this new documentary.

Evo Japan starts this weekend

The fighting game community’s eyes will be on Tokyo this weekend as players compete in Tekken 8, Street Fighter 6, Guilty Gear -Strive-, The King of Fighters XV, Under Night In-Birth II [Sys:Celes], Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising and Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike.

Evo Japan marks Tekken 8’s first major tournament and will also feature the return of  the fan-favorite Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike. Tune into the English stream on Evo’s Twitch channel from April 27th to April 29th. You can also compete at home in Tekken 8, Guilty Gear -Strive-, and The King of Fighters XV through PlayStation Tournaments on PS5.

Get ready for Evo 2024 in Las Vegas

From July 19th to July 21st, the biggest weekend in fighting games will commence at Evo 2024 in Las Vegas.

The weekend will feature the genre’s biggest titles, including new Evo debuts like Tekken 8, Mortal Kombat 1, Under Night In-Birth II [Sys:Celes], and Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising.  Street Fighter 6, Guilty Gear -Strive-, and The King of Fighters XV will also return to the Evo stage, and community classic Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike returns to Evo for the first time since 2009.

This year also features Evo in a new venue: The Las Vegas Convention Center. Fans can expect enhanced versions of the activities and experiences that define the show. Read more about the Evo attendee experience here. For those at home, you can watch Evo live on Twitch and YouTube.

We can’t wait for what Evo 2024 will bring, and we hope you’ll join us. Tickets are on sale now. See you there!

*Eligible East Asia territories are limited to Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan

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The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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