52 Weeks of Fun

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California Missions

San Juan Bautista Welcome Center

Local Attractions

San Juan Bautista, a charming town nestled in the San Benito County countryside, offers visitors a glimpse into California's rich Spanish colonial past. The town's centerpiece is the historic Mission San Juan Bautista, founded in 1797. This beautifully preserved mission complex showcases the architectural style and spiritual heritage of the Franciscan missionaries who played a crucial role in shaping California's early history. Visitors can explore the mission's church, cemetery, and gardens, immersing themselves in the tranquil ambiance and learning about the lives of the friars and the indigenous people who lived and worked here.

Beyond the mission, San Juan Bautista boasts a well-preserved historic district that reflects the town's Spanish and Mexican heritage. A stroll through the downtown area reveals colorful adobe buildings, quaint shops, and inviting restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine. The Plaza Hotel, a landmark building that dates back to 1858, offers a glimpse into the town's early days as a stagecoach stop and a gathering place for locals and travelers alike.

The San Juan Bautista State Historic Park, adjacent to the mission, encompasses several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Castro-Breen Adobe, a beautifully restored 1840s adobe home that served as the residence of General José Castro, a prominent figure in California's history. Visitors can tour the adobe and learn about the life and times of this influential leader.

For those seeking outdoor recreation, San Juan Bautista offers several parks and natural areas to explore. The San Andreas Fault, a major geological feature, runs through the town, and visitors can observe its effects on the landscape at the San Andreas Fault Trail. The Fremont Peak State Park, located nearby, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, as well as opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and stargazing.

San Juan Bautista also hosts several annual events that celebrate the town's rich history and cultural heritage. The Early California Days festival, held each June, features live music, traditional dancing, historical reenactments, and demonstrations of early California crafts. The San Juan Bautista Arts and Crafts Fair, held in October, showcases the works of local artists and artisans. Whether exploring the town's historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or experiencing the local culture, visitors to San Juan Bautista are sure to find a unique and memorable experience in this charming California town.

San Juan Bautista
San Juan Bautista

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about San Juan Bautista

When it was first built in 1812, Mission San Juan Bautista was the largest church building in Alta California. San Juan Bautista was home to Father Felipe Arroyo de la Cuesta, who learned at least seven Indian languages and wrote a book on the native languages of northern Alta California.

Upcoming Events

San Juan Bautista

Surrounding Mission San Juan Bautista is the Old Mission Plaza, a charming area with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
California State Parks

Adjacent to Mission San Juan Bautista is the San Juan Bautista State Historic Park, home to several historic buildings and landmarks.
San Juan Bautista

The Old Juan Bautista Plaza Historic District is a designated National Historic Landmark and features several well-preserved 19th century adobe buildings.
San Benito County

Visitors can take self-guided walking tours of the district to admire the architecture and learn about the town's history.

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