San Juan Bautista State Historic Park: A Step Back in Time
Discover California's past at San Juan Bautista State Historic Park, where original 1800s buildings and living history events bring the Spanish, Mexican, and American eras to life.
San Juan Bautista State Historic Park transports visitors to California's Spanish and Mexican past. Centered around a beautifully preserved plaza, the park features original and restored buildings from the 1800s, including the Plaza Hotel, Zanetta House, Plaza Stables, and Castro-Breen Adobe. Explore exhibits showcasing California's diverse cultural heritage, from Native American influences to the American period. Living history events, held regularly, bring the past to life with costumed docents and demonstrations of early crafts. The park offers a unique glimpse into a pivotal era in California's history, making it a worthwhile destination for history buffs and families alike. With its well-preserved buildings and engaging exhibits, the park provides an immersive experience of life in early California.
A brief summary to San Juan Bautista State Historic Park
- 19 Franklin St, San Juan Bautista, California, 95045, US
- +1831-623-4881
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on the first Saturday of the month for Living History Day and experience costumed docents demonstrating early crafts and skills.
- Combine your visit with a tour of the adjacent Mission San Juan Bautista to gain a broader understanding of the area's history.
- Explore the charming town of San Juan Bautista, with its antique shops and local restaurants, for a complete experience.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 101, exit onto Highway 156 East towards San Juan Bautista/Hollister. Follow Highway 156 for approximately 3 miles. Turn right onto The Alameda (look for the Windmill Shopping Center). Turn right onto Washington Street, and the park will be within a block. Free street parking is generally available around the Plaza, but it can be limited during peak hours and special events.
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Public Transport
From San Jose, take the Santa Clara VTA bus route 68 to the Gilroy Transit Center. From there, transfer to the Intercounty Express bus towards Hollister. Get off at the stop closest to San Juan Bautista, such as Abbe Park, which is a 10-minute walk to the park. Check the Moovit app for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. Bus fare from San Jose to Gilroy is approximately $2-$5. Intercounty Express bus fare is approximately $2-$4.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From the Gilroy Caltrain station, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to San Juan Bautista State Historic Park will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for the ride, depending on demand and surge pricing.
Discover more about San Juan Bautista State Historic Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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