San Juan Capistrano is a historic city near the California coast, most well known for its Mission San Juan Capistrano. Downtown San Juan has maintained its old charm with buildings still there since the 1800s, in addition to growing new roots in the newly revitalized downtown area. Here is my lineup of the best things to do in San Juan Capistrano.
How to get to San Juan Capistrano
Located south of Los Angeles and north of San Diego, San Juan Capistrano is an easy day trip or weekend getaway.
Take the train: it doesn’t get any easier to travel to San Juan Capistrano than by train- the train station is right in the center of downtown so you won’t need to get a taxi. Simply hop off the train into this historic district.
Drive: Exit Ortega Hwy, off the 5 freeway.
Things to do in San Juan Capistrano
Visit Mission San Juan Capistrano
Known as the “Jewel of the California Missions,” Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776 as the 7th of 21 California missions. You can visit inside the Basilica or simply take an onsite tour with a guided tour (only on weekends) or audio tour available Tuesday-Sunday.
The Mission hosts several events a year, so plan your trip ahead of time to catch all the action. Some of the most notable events it holds include:
- Battle of the Mariachis
- Return of the Swallows celebration
- Music under the Stars
- Capistrano Lights holiday display
Walk Los Rios Historic District
Stroll down the oldest neighborhood street in California, known as Los Rios Street. It is conveniently located right across the train tracks, so if you are taking the train you are just a few steps away.
Though it still has private residences, it is also home to businesses and restaurants. Picture yourself strolling below eucalyptus and willow trees and taking in the tranquility that Los Rios Street has to offer. 
Restaurants on Los Rios Street:
- The Tea House on Los Rios
- Hidden House Coffee shop
- Ramos House Cafe
Visit Zoomars Petting Zoo
Located in the historic Los Rios district is a small petting zoo with about 100 animals. Here you can ride a pony, feed guinea pigs and rabbits, pan for “gold”, or take a train ride.
I remember coming here when I was a kid, so it’s a staple of San Juan that has been around for years!
Go wine tasting
The wine scene here is quaint and guaranteed to be a good time.
- Five Vines Wine Bar: family owned and operated, this small wine bar is my favorite! They have a rotating wine menu with some of the best wine I have tried! They also have a menu with small bites, where you can create your own sausage board, cheese platter or even pick your own chocolate truffle tasting.
- Rancho Capistrano Winery: a large restaurant with outdoor and indoor seating, this winery offers a full scale menu. The mimosa flight and whiskey bundt cake is my favorite here!
- A Stone’s Throw Winery: a short 2 mile drive down the road is an outdoor winery with beautiful views of rolling hills to enjoy while you sip your wine flight.
Enjoy a spa day
Book a relaxing spa appointment at the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano. Located adjacent to downtown San Juan is the newly built Inn. After your spa service, enjoy relaxing at the pool for the day!
Antique shopping
Antique shops are sprawling in San Juan Capistrano and a few are located downtown. Old Barn Antique Mall is one of the largest shops to browse for antiques.
Visit breweries
San Juan Capistrano is growing with their brewery scene. Located in downtown is one brewery, with many others just a short driving distance away.
- Capistrano Brewing Co: located across from the Mission you will find this brewery, also serving some of the best bbq in town! Warning: the line can get very long with sometimes a wait over 2 hours
- Dog Pawrk Brewing Co: as the name suggests, dogs are welcomed into this brewery. It doesn’t serve food but usually has a food truck right outside
- Docent Brewing: situated right off the freeway and bike trail is this brewery, also serving a variety of creatively curated munchies
- The BrewHouse: a laid back place to enjoy craft beer on rotating taps
Celebrate at the Swallow's Day Parade
Come in March to celebrate the return of the swallows at the annual Swallow’s Day Parade. This all-day event has something to do for everyone. Come dressed in your western attire and cowboy boots to partake in the fun- food booths, art and clothing vendors, live music, bouncy houses, and of course the parade!
U-pick at the Ecology Center
The ecology center is a 28 acre farm in San Juan Capistrano that grows and sells its own produce at their farm stand, in addition to hosting many events throughout the year. Join them during one of their family-style feasts around a community table, or go to a U-Pick day and pick your own strawberries. For more events at the Ecology Center, click here.
San Juan Capistrano is a great destination for a day trip or even a weekend getaway. For recommendations on how to have the perfect weekend getaway, read my 3 day itinerary here!