Just an hour's drive from sunny San Diego toward the mountains, and you find yourself in a completely different world. Julian is a tiny town – just a few streets and nearby farms and ranches. Because of its location in the mountains, there is a much brighter sense of seasonality – the heat in summer, yellow and red leaves in fall, snow in winter, and flowers in spring.

Tourists love coming to Julian, especially during the fall season, because it is one of the few places in Southern California where you can see colorful fall foliage. Combined with the beautiful scenery, it is also a great place to vacation out of town.

Another reason why Fall is great for visiting Julian is that it is apple picking season. Since the town's culture is associated with pies, this dish is a must-try. In Julian, they are baked and sold hot in all kinds of flavors, though the most popular, of course, is the apple pie.

We visited during the second week of November and in our pictures you can see all the holiday festivities and colorful fall foliage. In this guide you’ll see plenty of Julian family-friendly activities and even some romantic weekend itinerary ideas for a couple’s weekend away. For the foodie fans, I’ve also included all the must-try autumn foods and deserts.

Book Your Stay in Julian

Fun fact: Julian is the Bed & Breakfast capital of Southern California! There’s so many country cute and unique houses and hotels to book for your weekend getaway.

Browse these popular Julian hotel and vacation homes:

**Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge**

The Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge is a relaxation retreat and spa located up in the mountain and right next to the lake. Guests can enjoy calm and serenity with spa services such as massages and incredible lakeside views.

Book Hotel

**Komorebi House**

The Komorebi House is probably the most modern vacation rental accommodations you can find in Julian. The minimal and sophisticated decor scheme makes for amazing backdrops for family photos (very Instagrammable!). You have amazing views and a hot tub!

Book Hotel

**Julian Gold Rush Hotel**

The main appeal of the Julian Gold Rush House is the super prime location. It is located right on the main strip of downtown Julian and you can walk to restaurants and shopping stores.

Book Hotel

**Time Traveler Retreat Cabin**

Cottagecore fans will fall in love with this adorable country cabin in the woods. It’s called the Time Traveler for good reason, it’s the perfect style of vintage 1950’s with warm and welcoming grandma vibes.

Book Cabin

Gold Mining History of Julian, California

The gold rush began in Julian right after the American Civil War. In 1869, former slave A. E. "Fred" Coleman crossed what is now known as Coleman's Creek, west of Julian. Noticing a glimmer of gold in the creek bed, he dismounted his horse to investigate. He picked up a pan and started digging in the sand in the stream.

When others heard about the discovery, they tried to trace the origin of the gold. On 22 February 1870, the first mining claim was filed in Julian County. As 22 February was President George Washington's birthday, the mine was named the Washington Mine. Soon, hundreds of men and families rushed to Julian to make their demands.

Julian became a tent city overnight. In April 1870, the first lumber mill in the area was built, and Julian began to acquire a more permanent structure. The owners of the Cuyamaca Rancho Land Grant claimed that Julian and its mines were within the boundaries of the Rancho. A court ruled in 1873 that the Rancho did not include Julian and its mines.

While the miners were trying to dig the gold out of the ground, James Madison was taking a wagonload of young apple trees into the mountains. Apples are still an important product of Julian, and many of them are used to make the world-famous apple pies.

The Complete Travel Guide to Julian, California - Main Street in downtown Julian. — Main Street in downtown Julian.

The Modern Day Town of Julian, California

Although popular for its apples and excellent pies, Julian has become a hub for visitors who want to stay in the mountains but take day trips to the nearby casinos, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and the coast. Known as the bed and breakfast capital of Southern California, it is fast becoming an excellent destination for families, hiking, weddings, and corporate outings.

The historic streets are lined with specialty stores, and the attractions are unique. From wineries to a wolf sanctuary – it seems to have it all. Julian offers plenty of vintage fun for couples, families, and groups of all ages. A year-round calendar of unique events, including Old Time Melodrama, Gold Rush Days, Fourth of July Parade, Grape Stomp Fest, and more, awaits curious visitors.

Family-Friendly Things To Do in Julian

Julian is a very popular place for San Diego city folks to take their kids for the weekend. There’s a very wholesome country vibe and plenty of things to do with children of all ages.

Apple Picking in Julian

Apple pies are the emblem of this country town, and the first event of the autumn season is the apple picking in Julian. This activity is equally fun for adults and children. The apple picking season usually lasts from mid-September to the end of October. Each apple orchard opens on different days depending on when the apples are ripe and closes when the apples are finished. One top tip is to visit the orchards as soon as they open. If you wait too long, you might miss the season!

There are about 5-6 apple orchards around Julian that are tracked on Julian's website. Keep this site bookmarked as it includes updates on each orchard, as well as hours of operation, prices, and other helpful information.

A truly beautiful place is Volcan Valley Apple Farm. It is huge – an added bonus is that there is plenty of parking, which is excellent for those traveling with many family members.

The season here begins September 11, and the hours of operation are pretty flexible – Friday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Make sure to arrive as early as possible, ideally right before it opens! You will avoid the crowds and get better parking.

Julian Mining Company

History buffs join the tours organized by Julian Mining Company and learn more about Colonial Era, Civil War, Gold Rush, and more.

On weekends, travelers can attend activities such as gold prospecting, gems, tomahawk throwing, and candle making and visit their farm animals – chickens, pigs, goats, and even donkeys. In the fall, Julian Mining company offers corn, pumpkin, and gourd picking, apple cider pressing, hay rides, and several Harvest Hoedown events.

This would definitely be one of the most fun, kid-friendly things to do in Julian! My husband grew up in San Diego and he has fond memories of school field trips to the Julian Mining Company as a child.

Oasis Camel Dairy

While being in Julian, you have a chance to visit a wonderful family farm – a place to put on the top of the to-do list of your family-friendly trip. At the farm, you can meet and feed camels and other fascinating animals. Mother camels raise their own cubs in naturally large pastures. On the farm, they use their milk to create skincare products. Camel milk soap, lotion, bath bombs, lip balms, and camel milk serums are lovingly handcrafted on this family's farm.

Horseback Riding in Julian, California

Warner Springs Ranch Resort and Riding Stables will take you into the past and give you a real taste of the Old West. You can ride all year round, and you do not have to worry about your experience or lack of it, as their riding programs are designed for all levels of riders, from beginners to advanced riders.

So whether you are an old-timer or meeting horses for the first time, Warner Valley Horse Riding Stables is sure to give you exciting, adventure-filled memories that will last a lifetime!

Moreover, the surrounding area is also magnificent. The ninety-minute walks will take you past historic sites, through old oak groves, and a variety of landscapes. You will have a chance to observe wildlife, including coyotes, bobcats, deer, and hawks, as you walk through their natural habitat.

Fort Cross Farm Tours and Petting Zoo

Fort Cross is a family farm with hands-on outdoor education for all ages. Originally focused on living history, it now offers programs and private activities that include art, survival skills, music, team building, and agricultural workshops. And of course there’s the popular petting zoo.

This experience is not just for kids but for people of all ages, so everyone can dive into the adventurous side when visiting Julian.

The Old Julian Jail

On a hill near the center of town stands a reliquary, preserved jail house from the days when this tiny town was a thriving gold mining site. Julian's Prison was built in 1914. Earlier wooden versions on the site date back to the 1870s. The current concrete structure is a quiet and little-known spot for sightseers who often come to Julian for entertainment.

Looking behind the heavy iron door is a sobering thought for adults and a history lesson for children. The prison is about 17 feet long, 14 feet wide, and 10 feet high and has two cells. Despite the sometimes-icy mountain temperatures, conditions of imprisonment were probably not too bad. In fact, it was equipped with one of the first indoor toilets in the city.

Prisoners were driven to San Diego if they had to serve long sentences. The doors were locked with a heavy iron key, used for decades by the various Julian residents who tended the prison. Now the jail is owned by the Julian Community Services District, and the historical society maintains it.

Each morning, a resident of Julian, Danny Baker, who lives nearby, opens the jail and closes it every evening, 365 days a year. He has been doing so for more than 30 years. From time to time, Baker adds a touch of humor to the prison by decorating it for Halloween. He attaches a skeleton or mannequin to one of the beds and hangs spiders and ghosts from the ceiling. Each cell still has a bunk, sink, and toilet.

Julian Tea & Cottage Arts

When visiting Southern California, do not miss the opportunity to see the charming home built in 1898 for gold miner Clarence King. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts is located in the historic gold mining town with authentic Old West-style buildings. There you will find a full range of stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic, and glass teapots and tea accessories. A huge assortment of teas, both bagged and loose-leaf, can be purchased at the tea store as well. Be sure to check out the full list of tea offerings on their website and call or email to place your order.

Places for Hiking and Picnics in Julian

After a long day of fun of adventuring in nature, what better way to slow down and relax than with some delicious picnic food.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Many winter visitors from other states come to Anza-Borrego to escape the cold and enjoy the mild temperatures of the Californian desert. In December and February, the maximum temperature is 60 degrees, and the minimum is 40 degrees. In April and May, temperatures quickly rise to 80 degrees and begin to reach triple digits in June.

Under favorable conditions, the desert floor can look like a carpet of colorful wildflowers. Flowering in Anza Borrego depends on winter rains but can usually be seen in March and April.

Another exciting activity in Anza-Borrego is seeing the famous art sculptures. This can be a particularly rewarding activity for children. The Galleta Meadow Statues are a massive permanent art installation by Ricardo Breceda in the desert near Borrego Springs.

Scattered across the desert sands are thirty life-size sculptures. Many of the statues are right by the road, so you will notice them as you drive by.

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is the place where Californians can enjoy quality outdoor recreation such as hiking, picnic sites, swimming water holes, equestrian activities and camping. The Cuyamaca Rancho State Park natural landscape has welcoming grassy valleys and rock formations, an easy terrain for families.

Inaja Memorial Picnic Site

Another significant outdoor recreation place in Julian is the Inaja Memorial Picnic Site. The area was created in memory of the 11 firefighters who died fighting the 60,000-hectare Inaja Fire in 1956.

In addition to the beautiful mountain scenery, the quiet and peaceful environment creates the perfect setting for an afternoon family picnic, with connecting trails and interactive activities to explore the surroundings and scenic spots.

The Complete Travel Guide to Julian, California - Pie toppings at the Julian Pie Company. — Pie toppings at the Julian Pie Company.

Jess Martin Park

Adventuring together with your furry friend? Don't miss the Jess Martin Park – a 9-acre park where dogs on leashes can walk with their owners on a footpath and run off-lead in a specially fenced area. This beautiful public park offers many recreational opportunities for families, from picnics to roller-skating.

Whether you want to play ball in the playground or work your heart out on the public track, Jess Martin Park has something for everyone.

Lake Cuyamaca Recreation & Park District

Cuyamaca Lake offers a variety of activities such as boating, fishing, camping, hiking, tent camping, bird watching, and picnicking. This is the ultimate destination for relaxation and reconnection with nature. Spending time at the lake will certainly rejuvenate you and entertain the little ones.

Things To Do During Your Romantic Getaway in Julian

If you choose Julian for a romantic weekend getaway, there are plenty of ways adults can entertain themselves, especially when it comes to sophisticated wine tasting.

One Heart Massage & Reiki

Getting a massage is definitely a very memorable experience, especially when you’re on a relaxing vacation. It is always a great gift, a very rewarding way to pamper yourself, or a lovely activity to enjoy with your partner.

When you book a session with One Heart, you can relax knowing everything has been thought of. Justine, who will be giving the massage, tailors every treatment to each client's individual needs.

After your visit, be sure to purchase organic leaf teas, tinctures, candles, and more.

Julian Station

Pay a visit to the Julian Station property, which is managed by husband-and-wife Albert Lewis and Lydia Frausto. The historic collection of buildings includes several unique antiques, local artwork shops, four different wine, beer, cider tasting rooms, and yoga and teaching arts center.

Julian Station hosts music nights featuring a different local artist each week. This is certainly one of the most fun places to include in your romantic weekend getaway in Julian.

Julian Hard Cider Tasting

Julian Hard Cider is a local favorite brewery and they make innovative hard cider flavors such as Harvest Apple, Cherry Bomb, Black and Blue with blueberries and blackberries, Razzmatazz with raspberry, Apple Pie with autumn spices, Pearanormal with pears, Freaky Tiki with pineapple, and Tiki Torch with pineaaple, key lime and habanero peppers.

At their tasting room you can order apple cider flights for the chance to try out multiple flavors. Their tasting room is located at 4470 Julian Rd, Julian, CA 92036.

Stargazing in Julian

Julian is a famous stargazing spot in California because of the dark skies which are far from the city lights of San Diego. Every year, Julian hosts a stargazing festival, where experienced astronomers guide curious visitors. This star tour can be taken using the many telescopes set up in the observation deck. In addition, experts will be on hand to answer any questions you have about what you are looking at.

Top Wineries in Julian, California

No one can argue that a wine tasting paired with a cheese platter and delicate finger foods doesn't sound like a dream. So plan a surprise trip to one of these incredible wineries for you and your partner to spend a romantic day together.

Volcan Mountain Winery

Julian's newest tasting room offers samples of the winery's sparkling cider, white, red, rose, and dessert wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, and Sangiovese. A picnic is served on the winery grounds at the foot of Volcan Mountain.

Menghini Winery

This winery, located in the Julian Gardens, produces Chardonnays, Cabernets, Sauvignons Blancs, Merlots, and Muscat per year. It offers a variety of wines for tasting, so all you have to do is visit the shop to buy cheese and olives, which will be a great addition to the wines.

Winter Snow Trip to Julian, California

I've mentioned that Julian is a popular autumn season destination, but you can actually visit during the winter holiday months for a completely unique snow experience.

William Heise Park

Located in the mountains of East County, 4,200 feet above sea level, William Heise County Park is one of the few parks in San Diego County that gets snow every year. Southern California residents in San Diego and Los Angles can drive up to the park for a snow trip during the winter months. Forests of oak, pine, and cedar surround quiet mountain meadows and create an unspoiled environment for nearly 11 miles of scenic natural landscape.

Foods to Try in Julian

No trip to this small country town would be complete without trying some of the local foods Julian is famous for. This is certainly not the place to be on a diet or counting calories, Julian is where we indulge in all those comforting fall foods we love during the autumn season.

Cider Donuts & Apple Cider

Walking along the Julian main street, you will see many shops selling the cider donuts and fresh apple cider next to their pies. These are mostly only available during the apple picking season to the end of the year. Cider donuts are a fall season delicacy with a cakey consistency, cinnamon and cloves spices and finished with sugar. And of course it pairs well with a fresh glass of apple cider, or a nice warm hot chocolate.

Where to Get Pie in Julian, California

In Julian you will find so many different versions or apple pie, you will be amazed at the variety. You can also try all kinds of toppings on your pie… including the surprising cheddar cheese!

Mom's Pie House

During our visit to Julian we sat down inside Mom’s Pie House and enjoyed a slide of Dutch apple pie with sides of cinnamon and vanilla ice cream. Inside the restaurant it was very grandma-style cottage cute with wooden booths and country wall paper. Scroll down to see photos from our visit.

Have you ever tasted apple pie with sharp cheddar cheese? If that sounds tempting, try it at and Mom's Pie House (also available at Julian Pie Co.). Or you can top your pie with whipped cream, caramel or ice cream.

On the menu at Mom’s Pie House you’ll find all kinds of pie flavors including a variety of apple pies, pecan, chocolate pecan, pumpkin, blueberry, cherry, rhubarb strawberry, and even a savory chicken pot pie. They also serve lunch sandwiches and soup.

Julian Pie CoMpany

The Julian Apple Pie Company is a dedicated pie factory with a very wide selection of pies. You can order a pie slice with toppings, or you can take an entire pie with you on the go. During the Thanksgiving and holiday season, many folks stock up on their pies and bring them home to share.

While they have 22 pie flavors on their menu, a few of my favorites are caramel dutch apple, peach, boysenberry and apple mountain berry pie.

Apple Alley Bakery

The Apple Alley Bakery serves both lunch and bakery sweet treats. Popular menu items include the chili pot pie made with sweet corn meal crust, apple strudel and turnovers, cinnamon rolls, tarts and apple cider.

Where to Eat in Julian

Of course pies are delicious but not the only option for satisfying your hunger. If you want to sit and eat a hardy meal, check out these popular Julian restaurants.

Julian Beer Co.

Don't miss the opportunity to take your taste buds to Julian Beer Co. Rumor has it that it makes the best homemade and comfort food in Julian. We sat down on their outdoor patio for a family lunch in downtown Julian. We had BBQ ribs, cornbread with maple butter and sides. They had a high chair for our baby which was great, very family friendly.

Dudley's Bakery

At Dudley's all products are locally made and contain no artificial preservatives. So, it is the perfect healthy option to try after indulging in all the pies. In addition to bread, they also bake cookies, monkey bread, strudels, pies, and other pastries. Moreover, their deli has an open menu, and guests are encouraged to choose their favorite tasty combination.

The Complete Travel Guide to Julian, California - Locally made artisan bath, beauty and wellness products inside The Warm Hearth of Julian boutique store. — Locally made artisan bath, beauty and wellness products inside The Warm Hearth of Julian boutique store.

Fat Anthony's Deli

The next option for a delicious meal is Fat Anthony's Deli, a family-run Italian deli with a butcher shop, freshly baked sweets, and meats, as well as the best-smoked BBQ meat in Julian.

Here you will stumble upon fantastic sandwiches and a great market in one place. The place has been owned and served by the same family for 36 years until 2021. That means the recipes are truly original, and the flavors are irreplaceable.

Julian Cafe & Bakery

The Julian Cafe is a true restaurant with a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. They even have a Thanksgiving menu! For dessert you can chose from apple pie, apple cider float, hot giant cinnamon roll or an apple crisp.

Shopping in Downtown Julian, California

An excellent daytime activity in Julian is just to wander around the downtown and plan on eating and shopping your way through the afternoon. When visiting Julian, you will see many unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. In the historic streets of this special town, you will find arts and crafts, old-fashioned sweets, clothing, and wonderful souvenirs to take home, not only for yourself but for everyone in the family.

The Warm Hearth

The Warm Hearth is a country farmhouse chic gift shop with an enormous selection of home goods. Scroll through the photos in this blog post to see some of my favorite goods I found in the boutique.

The charming shop sells eclectic home decor, locally made artisan foods, women's fashion accessories, and a wide range of seasonal products. Just beware – it will be difficult to resist all these beautiful things!

The Complete Travel Guide to Julian, California - Outside The Warm Hearth of Julian during the holiday season. — Outside The Warm Hearth of Julian during the holiday season.

Julian Soap Company

The Julian Soap Company has been in business for over 20 years and is known for its fresh and fragrant handmade soaps. The soap is made in downtown Julian and will be a great self-care gift for your loved one.

The Old Julian Garage

If you like weird and wacky things combined with hipster and cool, you found the right place. The Old Julian Garage is great for choosing gifts for family and friends back home. You will especially find Julian souvenirs to commemorate your trip.

Enjoy the Highlights of Julian!

Choose your own way to enjoy Julian. There is no shortage of entertainment here. The city has fresh air, beautiful scenery, hiking trails, outstanding parks, and old-fashioned architecture. Shop in historic 1870s buildings, spend the night in a romantic guesthouse or historic hotel, taste Julian's famous apple pie, and hike among the endless oaks and pines. We guarantee – it will be a magical experience!