The Top 5 Reasons to Visit San Juan Capistrano, California Now
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San Juan Capistrano is unique in Orange County and a rarity in California—a community whose foundation was laid by the earliest people to inhabit the land, and a community still evolving after more than 220 years.
California history, and therefore San Juan Capistrano history, is often divided into five major eras: Prehistory, the Spanish era, the Mexican/Rancho Era, Statehood, and the Twentieth Century. These are the top five reasons why San Juan Capistrano, California should be on your bucket list.
1. THE CUISINE & COCKTAILS
Situated within an iconic location in the heart of charming downtown San Juan Capistrano overlooking the jewel of the California missions—Old world charm and new world inspiration come together at Tavern at the Mission. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying the Blackberry Mojito—concocted with Plantation rum, mint, blackberries, agave nectar, lime and Yuzu juices, or the Skinny B with Partida Blanco, cucumber, orange, mint, agave nectar, and fresh squeezed orange, lemon and lime juices.
In addition to delicious craft cocktails, Tavern at the Mission offers a modern approach to signature classic comfort foods. Classic dishes and favorites include D’s Honey-Buttermilk Fried Chicken with mashed potatoes, Blue Lake green beans and thyme gravy, Pan Roasted Mahi Mahi with spinach, crispy sweet garlic, mashed potatoes, Casteltrevano olives, and capers, as well as “French Onion” Filet Mignon with French onion soup, Gruyère cheese, french fries and Brussels sprouts.
Take the time to indulge your sweet tooth at Tavern at the Mission and enjoy one of many decadent desserts such as Bananageddon with butter pecan ice cream, candied pecans, banana pastry cream, fresh bananas, toffee crumbles, and salty caramel sauce. Enjoy the beautiful tree covered, pet-friendly patio with views of Mission San Juan Capistrano and a warm interior with two fireplaces.
2. THE ART
Mission San Juan Capistrano holds in its historic collection several thousand objects. These objects include photos, artifacts, documents, paintings, baskets and more. Many of these works represent the Mission’s history, religious influence and Native American culture.
Source: Mission San Juan Capistrano
The Mission San Juan Capistrano historic museum collection includes many photos and artifacts pertaining to the Mission’s history. Some of the items range in date from when Father Serra first founded Mission San Juan Capistrano on November 1, 1776 to the present day. Because of the historical importance of the site, the Mission always employs an Archaeologist and a Monitor from the local Acjachemen Nation to monitor even routine maintenance projects.
Source: Mission Fine Art Gallery
Mission Fine Art Gallery is an artist-run gallery that showcases award-winning original paintings, ceramics, and jewelry by local artists. The gallery’s mission is to serve the community by creating art that celebrates life, culture and the unique natural surroundings of Southern California.
3. THE SHOPPING
Tucked away in the Mission Promenade, the Mission is a memorable visit. The Mission Store provides a unique shopping experience with meaningful gifts that support the self-sustaining Mission landmark and local economy. The store features a unique collection of gifts, beautiful handcrafted items from all around the world and an assortment of ornaments.
Religious and spiritual items including Bibles, devotional items, journals, artisan rosaries, prayer cards along with traditional and contemporary religious and swallow-themed handmade jewelry that support local and international artisans and causes. Net proceeds from purchases at the Mission Store help support preservation efforts.
4. THE GARDENS
The Gardens at Mission San Juan Capistrano are lovingly maintained by a group of 35 volunteers called the “Gardening Angels.” The gardens you see today are very different from the early days of the Mission.
Source: Mission San Juan Capistrano
In the 1700s and 1800s most of the planting was for agriculture and sustenance. Crops were grown for food and for trade, although there are many mentions of ornamental plants being grown during that period. In addition to plants for food and trade, herbs were grown both for flavoring and medicinal purposes. Even though the purpose of the gardens has changed, many of its traditional plants are still grown today both for color and scent, and to keep the traditions alive.
5. THE ARCHITECTURE
Mission San Juan Capistrano, historic landmark and museum, is the “Birthplace of Orange County.” It was founded more than two hundred years ago as the 7th of 21 missions statewide and features a chapel still standing where Saint Serra once celebrated Mass. Today, it is a monument to California’s multi-cultural history, embracing its Native American, Spanish, Mexican and European heritage.
Originally built as a self sufficient community by Spanish Padres and Native Americans, the Mission was a center for agriculture, industry, education and religion. Famous for the Annual Return of the Swallows, Mission San Juan Capistrano is the “Jewel of the California Missions” and welcomes over 300,000 visitors each year.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CALIFORNIA
Uncover a place of new experiences where you can explore the rich history and heart of California. Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection creates a place for rest and renewal that has been true to their location for ages. Stay in hacienda-style guest rooms and suites, take in views of the ruins of the Great Stone Church from your patio, or embark on a tour of the Mission San Juan Capistrano nearby.
