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Los Rios Park: A Historic Haven in San Juan Capistrano

Step back in time at Los Rios Park, a tranquil gateway to California's oldest neighborhood in historic San Juan Capistrano.

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Nestled in the heart of California's oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood, Los Rios Park offers a tranquil escape with a rich historical backdrop. This charming park provides a blend of recreational space and historical immersion, inviting visitors to explore the area's Spanish and Native American roots.

A brief summary to Los Rios Park

  • 31791 Los Rios St, San Juan Capistrano, California, 92675, US

Local tips

  • Explore the Los Rios Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in California, with its preserved adobe homes and buildings.
  • Visit the Montanez Adobe, a historic home from the 19th century, for a glimpse into the lives of the Mission Indians.
  • Check out the photographic plaques throughout the park that detail the history of the Los Rios neighborhood.
  • Attend one of the various events and activities hosted at the park throughout the year.
  • Walk the Los Rios district, where bougainvillea, cactus and butterflies brim, and sense the early 18th century.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Los Rios Park is located in the heart of the Los Rios Historic District. From the intersection of Del Obispo Street and Paseo Adelanto, walk north on Paseo Adelanto. The park will be on your right, marked by a large boulder with 'Los Rios Park' written on it. Note that Los Rios Street is mostly for pedestrians. Parking is available off Paseo Adelanto. Parking fee is $2/hour.

  • Public Transport

    The San Juan Capistrano Metrolink station is located a short walk from Los Rios Park. From the station, cross the railroad tracks and head towards Paseo Adelanto. Turn right onto Paseo Adelanto, and the park will be on your right, marked by a large boulder with 'Los Rios Park' written on it. Metrolink offers weekend passes for unlimited rides on Saturdays or Sundays for $10. Children 17 and under ride free on weekends with a fare-paying adult. The SJC Trolley also connects the Metrolink station with points around town and Dana Point. The trolley is free and runs every 20 minutes on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through Labor Day.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 5, exit at Ortega Highway and head towards the San Juan Capistrano Mission. Continue on Del Obispo. After crossing Camino Capistrano and the railroad tracks, make an immediate right onto Paseo Adelanto. The parking lot will be on your right past River Street Marketplace and Zoomars River Street Ranch. Parking at Los Rios Park costs $2 per hour. There is also a parking structure off Verdugo St and Camino Capistrano. Do not drive down Los Rios Street to find parking, as it is a residential street with no public parking.

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Discover more about Los Rios Park

Los Rios Park, located in the Los Rios Historic District of San Juan Capistrano, is more than just a park; it's a gateway to California's past. Established in 1794, the Los Rios Historic District is the oldest neighborhood in California, boasting preserved adobe homes and buildings that reflect the region's Spanish and Native American heritage. Walking through the district and into the park is like stepping back in time. The park itself features photographic plaques detailing the history of the Los Rios neighborhood, offering insights into its origins and evolution. For families, there's a playground, picnic tables, and a butterfly garden. The Montanez Adobe, a historic home from the 19th century built in the Spanish colonial style, is one of the few remaining adobes in the area and provides a glimpse into the lives of the Mission Indians who once inhabited the region. Free tours of the Montanez Adobe are available. Los Rios Park also serves as a starting point for exploring other attractions in the Los Rios Historic District, such as the O'Neill Museum and the Mission San Juan Capistrano. The O'Neill Museum, a Victorian home built in the 1880s, displays artifacts from indigenous people to the time of the Spanish missionaries. The Mission San Juan Capistrano, founded in 1776, is renowned for its architecture, gardens, and history. The park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. With its blend of recreational space, historical significance, and natural beauty, Los Rios Park is a must-visit destination.

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