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Los Rios Street Historic District: California's Oldest Neighborhood

Discover California's roots in San Juan Capistrano's Los Rios Historic District, a charming neighborhood with historic homes, shops, and cafes.

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Step back in time in California's oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood, the Los Rios Street Historic District in San Juan Capistrano. This charming district features original adobe homes from the late 1700s and early 1800s, alongside quaint shops and cafes, offering a glimpse into early California life.

A brief summary to Los Rios Street Historic District

  • 31831 Los Rios St, San Juan Capistrano, California, 92675, US
  • +1949-493-8444
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as you'll want to explore the district's charming streets and gardens.
  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
  • Check out the O'Neill Museum for a glimpse into the area's history and to view historical artifacts.
  • Enjoy a meal or snack at one of the district's cozy cafes or restaurants.
  • Take the train to the San Juan Capistrano station for a convenient and scenic way to reach the district.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Mission San Juan Capistrano, walk northeast on Camino Capistrano, then turn left onto Los Rios Street. The historic district will be on your right. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The San Juan Capistrano Metrolink station is within walking distance of the Los Rios Street Historic District. From the station, walk north towards Verdugo Street, then turn left. Turn right onto Los Rios Street. The district will be on your left. Metrolink offers service from various points in Southern California. A weekend day pass is $10.

  • Driving

    From I-5, exit at Ortega Highway and head east. Turn right onto Camino Capistrano, then turn left onto Los Rios Street. Street parking and public parking lots are available near the historic district. Parking at Los Rios Park is $2/hour. Employee parking permits are available at City Hall for $8 per year for marked, time-restricted public parking spaces.

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Discover more about Los Rios Street Historic District

The Los Rios Street Historic District, nestled in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, is a captivating journey into California's past. Designated as the oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood in the state, this historic area offers visitors a unique glimpse into life as it was centuries ago. The district's roots trace back to 1776, with the founding of Mission San Juan Capistrano. In 1794, around 40 adobe structures were built to house Indian neophytes and workers associated with the Mission. Today, three of these original adobe homes remain, testaments to the area's enduring history. These include the Montanez Adobe, Rios Adobe, and Silvas Adobe. The Rios Adobe is particularly notable as the oldest home continuously occupied by one family in California. As you stroll along Los Rios Street, you'll encounter a mix of architectural styles, reflecting different periods of the district's development. While the original adobes represent the Spanish colonial era, many of the other homes were built by European immigrants in the late 1800s and early 1900s. These board-and-batten structures add to the district's unique character and charm. Beyond its historic homes, the Los Rios Street Historic District offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Explore unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes housed in the district's charming cottages. Visit the O'Neill Museum to learn more about the area's history and see exhibits showcasing early California life. Enjoy a meal at one of the district's restaurants, or relax in one of its picturesque gardens.

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