EXPLORING JULIAN
Every fall, San Diegans escape to the mountains of nearby Julian to experience tawny leaves falling from the trees to get a taste of the changing seasons.
Once a gold mining town, Julian is now best known for its apple pie shops and quaint downtown. Fall is a popular time to visit, when the leaves display vibrant colors and the crisp air demands a cozy sweater and hot cup of apple cider.
Explore Downtown
Julian’s small downtown is filled with shops featuring collectibles, toys, antiques, specialty foods and folksy knick-knacks. Stop by Julian Cider Mill for a free sample of apple cider, to purchase a cup or to take home a half gallon for later. Shop for honey, nuts, dried fruits, candies, apple butter or jam while you’re there. Their food items make great gifts, snacks or the perfect accessory for your family's winter gingerbread house.
Gather the family for a unique portrait donning western costumes, hats, and props at Julian Olde Time Photo.
During the Fall, visit Town Hall for arts & crafts shows and other seasonal events. At the end of November and in December, join the residents of Julian for their annual Country Christmas.
Where to Eat
A family favorite spot to grab lunch or dinner is Miner’s Diner, right on the corner as you enter town. Kids are expecially fond of the old-fashioned soda fountain, model train circling overhead and the secret self-serve candy "mine."
The Julian Beer Company features delicious pizzas, barbecue and plenty of seating. Rongbranch Restaurant features home-style cooking and a small onsite gift shop. Other favorite dining options include Julian Café and Mom's Pie House (if you can get a seat).
If you want to eat before arriving at Julian (or after you leave) stop at Heroes Wood-Fired Pizza in the nearby town of Wynola. If you're lucky, you might even catch some live entertainment.
Pies and Other Treats
Various delicious pies (including apple varieties) are available throughout town, but don't overlook cobblers and dumplings before deciding!
Mom’s Pies always has a line of customers, but it's worth the wait. There's a second Mom's location down the road in Wynola, if it's easier for your family to stop there.
Another local favorite is Julian Pie Company, which also has a location in Santa Ysabel.
Leaf Peeping
There are numerous hiking trails throughout and surrounding Julian. Exploring the mountain trails, pine trees and fallen leaves provides a necessary connection with nature that is completely different from San Diego’s beaches and big city vibe. Lake Cuyamaca is a 10-minute drive south on Highway 79. Walk the 3.5 mile trail around the lake, rent a paddle boat, or go fishing. Fishing gear is available for rent in the lake store. Campsites and cabins are available to rent as well.
More Family Fun in Julian
Julian Mining Company: Fall activities include apple cider making, tractor-drawn hayrides, and a petting zoo. Kids can pan for gold and search for gems like miners year-round.
Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures
Where to Stay
Julian is an easy day trip destination for San Diego County residents, but some like to make it an overnight getaway. Julian Lodge, Laguna Mountain Lodge and Tucker Peak Lodge are popular for overnight stays, as well as camping and independently owned cabins. Nearby William Heise County Park has campsites and cabins available, but plan ahead to secure reservations.
How to Get There
The drive to Julian is only about an hour and a half from downtown San Diego (unless you're traveling at a high peak time). Highway 78 passes wineries, apple orchards and a number of animals along the way (horses, cows, goats, sheep -- even camels!). On the way home, stop at Pine Hill Egg Ranch on Highway 78 (Ramona) for farm-fresh eggs.
The other way to go is via Highway 79 past Lake Cuyamaca. Either route showcases colorful fall foliage.
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