San Juan Mission Offers a

Fascinating Look into California's Past

Experience California’s Heritage at

Mission San Juan Capistrano

Visitors to Mission San Juan Capistrano will see California’s earliest days with authenticity and enthusiasm as they view 230 years of history through buildings and artifacts. For those children who have studied California’s Missions, their visit will have great meaning as they experience firsthand this vibrant piece of California’s past that has been

passionately preserved and maintained.

Mission San Juan Capistrano, the Birthplace of Orange County, was founded more than two hundred years ago on November 1, 1776. It is the seventh of 21 missions in built in California. Among many other things, it features Serra Chapel, one of the State's oldest buildings and historically significant because Father Junipero Serra once celebrated mass there.

Originally built as a self-sufficient community by Spanish Padres and Indians, the Mission was a center for agriculture, industry, education and religion. Over a period spanning 230 years, the Mission prospered, fell into ruin, and was restored in bits and pieces so that its 17th century beginnings could be enjoyed and celebrated by everyone. Today it is a monument to California’s multi-cultural history, embracing its Native American, Spanish, Mexican and European heritage.

As visitors step onto the grounds, they will feel an unmistakable pride of history and heritage all around them, thanks to those who today lovingly care for the Mission. Visitors will discover many areas of interest as they walk throughout the grounds. The serenity amid the ten acres of lush gardens and koi filled fountains, sheltered by old adobe walls, offers a respite from one’s busy world. Step back in time and get a feel for life 200 years ago when you visit the beautiful Serra Chapel, Padres Quarter, Industrial Area, Soldiers Barracks, and Cemetery. See the ruins of the Great Stone Church, which was completed in 1806 and unfortunately fell in the earthquake of 1812. Enjoy tranquil setting unique to Orange County's only Mission Parish Gardens.

The Mission is a registered Historic Landmark & designated a National Historical Treasure. To enhance your visit, a Welcome Video plays every 11 minutes to provide an overview.

An active calendar of year round events at the Mission includes art shows and receptions, musical events and concerts, historical celebrations, holiday activities, and more. See the accompanying sidebar for a sampling of events to be held in April, May and June.

Brick by brick is what comprises Mission San Juan Capistrano. What stands today is a testament to the past and to the many individuals who have served the Mission for more than 200 years. It is the people of the Mission who educate and inspire visitors, and preserve this historic landmark. They are the ones who today give it heart, keep it relevant, and ready the torch of stewardship to pass to the next generation so that tomorrow’s families can experience this magnificent piece of California’s history.

Mission San Juan Capistrano is open from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve afternoon, Christmas, and Good Friday afternoon. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors (60+), $5 children ages 4 to 11, and free for children three and under. Tickets are only sold at the entrance. Group discount rates available for parties of 15 or more. The Mission is located at 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 92675, at the corner of Ortega Highway and Camino Capistrano, one block west of Interstate 5. For more information, call 949.234.1300 or visit missionsjc.com.