Mission San Juan Capistrano & Old Town Tour
Highlights
- Historical and cultural importance dating back 250 years
- Tour of the oldest building in California
- Walking tour of a 250 year old Spanish town
- Tips on where to best shop and eat
- Visit to the oldest neighborhood in California
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Duration 1 hour 30 minutes
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Personal Guided Tour
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Small Group Tour
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Discounted Tickets Required
Experience the rich history and cultural significance of San Juan Capistrano on the Mission San Juan Capistrano & Old Town Tour. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories of the indigenous peoples, the birth of California's wine-making tradition, and the famous Swallows that return each year. Begin your journey at the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano, where you can explore the beautifully flowered grounds and visit the oldest building in California. Then, embark on a walking tour of the 250-year-old Spanish town, hearing tales of Zorro, pirates, and ghosts. Discover hidden historic neighborhoods, with ancient adobes and century-old succulents, and indulge in the quaint arts and crafts shopping lane. Uncover the oldest neighborhood in California, the Los Rios Historic District, before concluding the tour just a short walk from the Mission. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of San Juan Capistrano on this unforgettable experience.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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1 hours 30 minutes
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Explore Mission San Juan Capistrano and its historic Old Town on a guided tour steeped in California's culture and history.
Included
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Personal guided tour of mission and historic old town
Excluded
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Tickets to mission
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Guide tips
Meeting Point
Outside Mission’s entrance meet you wearing a Red Visor.
26801 Old Mission Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 , United States
End Point
We'll end our tour in the Los Rios Historic District - just a 2 Minute walk from the Mission starting point.
31831 Los Rios St, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 , United States
What to expect
Mission San Juan Capistrano
We'll meet at the Historic 'Jewel of the Missions' where the famous Swallows return to, and after you purchase your Discounted Tckets we will tour the beautifully flowered grounds. You'll see its venerated chapel - the oldest building in California - where Father Serra, founder of the California Missions, conducted Mass; and then the graveyard holding victims of the 1812 earthquake that collapsed the great basilica on a Sunday morning. .
San Juan Capistrano
Then we'll go on a walking tour of this 250 year old Spanish town, famous for the Swallows that return each Spring and we'll tell you tales of Zorro, pirates and ghosts too. We’ll even show you where President Nixon dined on his favorite Mexican dishes while staying at his nearby 'Western White House'; as well as the historic Santa Fe train Depot. We'll be happy to offer Tips on where to best Shop and Eat.
Los Rios Park
Then we'll go on to a venerable, but nearly hidden, historic neighborhood - the oldest in California - where you’ll see ancient adobes and giant century-old succulents ; and its Arts and Crafts shopping lane with its much loved tea house (where women wear Victorian hats on Sunday) and a celebrity Chef’s rustic patio restaurant (also his home). A petting zoo you may want to visit is also tucked away nearby
Los Rios Historic District
Oldest neighborhood in California
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Wheelchair accessible
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Tickets (Discounted) to Mission will be required
What our experts say
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Purchase discounted tickets at the Mission.
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Try local Mexican dishes at nearby restaurants.
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Explore the Los Rios Historic District.
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Visit the chapel where Father Serra conducted Mass.
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Look for the Swallows returning in Spring.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the rich history and captivating beauty of San Juan Capistrano on the Mission San Juan Capistrano & Old Town Tour. Immerse yourself in the cultural significance of this historic site, which has played a vital role in the development of California for over 250 years. From the lives of indigenous peoples to being the birthplace of wine-making in California, this tour will take you on a journey through time and showcase the unique heritage of this enchanting destination.What to expect?
Embark on a 90-minute adventure that combines the exploration of Mission San Juan Capistrano with a walking tour of the charming Spanish town. Discover the oldest building in California, the revered chapel where Father Serra conducted Mass. Hear fascinating tales of the devastating earthquake that struck the great basilica, leaving behind a haunting graveyard. As you stroll through the town, learn about the legendary swallows that return each spring and delve into stories of Zorro, pirates, and ghosts. Get insider tips on the best places to shop and dine, including the beloved tea house and a celebrity chef’s rustic patio restaurant.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone eager to explore the hidden gems of California. Whether you're a local looking to deepen your understanding of the region's history or a traveler seeking an authentic experience, this tour caters to all. Embark on this adventure with friends, family, or even as a solo explorer, and uncover the secrets of San Juan Capistrano that have shaped the state's identity.Why book this?
Immerse yourself in the rich history of San Juan Capistrano and connect with the past like never before. This tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the hidden stories and lesser-known details that make this destination truly special. With an experienced guide leading the way, you'll gain intimate insights into the area's history and culture, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Whether you're fascinated by architecture, intrigued by folklore, or simply seeking a unique adventure, the Mission San Juan Capistrano & Old Town Tour promises to exceed your expectations.Good to know
Please note that entrance tickets to the Mission, which are discounted, will need to be purchased separately at the site. Look for your guide wearing a red visor to join the tour. The tour duration is approximately 90 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the historical ambiance and absorb the captivating stories of San Juan Capistrano. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the oldest neighborhood in California, the Los Rios Historic District, just a short walk from the starting point. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and come prepared to be transported to a bygone era of charm and intrigue.Reviews
Customers who have embarked on the Mission San Juan Capistrano & Old Town Tour have praised the tour for its knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling. Visitors have expressed deep appreciation for the unique historical sites visited and the fascinating anecdotes shared along the way. The seamless combination of Mission San Juan Capistrano and the charming Spanish town ensures a well-rounded experience that leaves guests with a thorough understanding of the region's history. Overall, guests have been delighted with this captivating tour and highly recommend it to fellow travelers seeking an enchanting journey through time.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is