Start your day with delicious pastries and baked goods at Apple Alley Bakery. Made fresh daily with local ingredients, their famous apple pies are a must-try. You can also take a quick tour of the Julian Mining Company right across the street.
Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve offers panoramic views of the Julian countryside. Hiking trails snake through the high-altitude grasslands and oak trees, creating an ideal setting for a morning hike. Be sure to bring a camera and watch out for rattlesnakes!
If you're looking for a small-town feel with American comfort food, try Julian Cafe. Famous for their grilled cheese sandwiches, the restaurant also serves breakfast all day and has outside seating with a view of Main Street.
The Eagle Mining Co. gives daily tours of the historic Julian gold mine. Visitors can experience the underground tunnels and learn about the history of mining in the gold rush era of Julian. You can also try your hand at panning for gold.
End your day at Julian Hard Cider. Located on a working apple orchard, they offer a wide selection of ciders, made with local orchard apples. Take a tour of the cider press or sit by the oak tree and enjoy a drink.
It's best to rent a car and explore Julian on your own, as public transportation is scarce. Expect to spend around $100-150 for a rental car for the day. Parking in Julian is free.
If you have more time, consider taking a scenic drive along the Sunrise Highway or planning a picnic at the William Heise County Park. For a longer stay, book a night at the Julian Gold Rush Hotel or the Butterfield Bed and Breakfast.
The nearest airport to Julian is San Diego International Airport (SAN), which is located 63 miles away from the city center. Another option is the McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) in Carlsbad, which is 63.5 miles away.