Top 10 Things to Do in Julian

Julian Pie Company

A must-visit. Famous for their apple pie, fresh cider, and charming small-town vibe. Get it à la mode.

Hike Volcan Mountain Trail

A moderate 5-mile round-trip hike with sweeping views of Julian, Cuyamaca, and even the Salton Sea on clear days.

Eagle Mining Co.

Step back in time with a guided tour through an authentic 1870s gold mine. Great for families or history buffs.

Julian Station & Wineries

Tasting rooms, local hard cider, craft beer, wine, and small shops. Top picks:

  • Blue Door Winery

  • Menghini Winery

  • Julian Hard Cider

Lake Cuyamaca

Fish, kayak, or just picnic by the lake. Calm, beautiful spot 15 minutes from town. Rental boats available.

Main Street Julian

Antique shops, art galleries, old-school candy stores, coffee shops, and the iconic Julian Town Hall.

Horseback Riding

Try guided trail rides through pine forests and open meadows. Check out:

  • Kenner Horse Ranch

  • Julian Stables

Visit Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Miles of scenic trails, campgrounds, and wildlife. Good for hiking, mountain biking, and nature photography.

Stargazing

Julian’s elevation and low light pollution make it ideal for night skies. Bring a blanket, lay out, and look up.

Looking for More Ideas In Julian…Here You Go!

Gold Rush History & Heritage

  • Gold Mine Tours & Gold Panning
    Explore real gold mine tunnels, take guided tours of secluded mines, and try gold panning to uncover a piece of Julian’s mining past.   

  • Julian Pioneer Museum & Self-Guided History Walk
    Visit the Pioneer Museum to view mining equipment, pioneer-era artifacts, and historic displays. For a broader view of historic sites, pick up a walking tour map at Town Hall and stroll through the town’s heritage landmarks.  

  • Julian Gold Rush Hotel
    A historic gem built in 1897, it’s the oldest continually operating hotel in Southern California and originally owned by African American pioneers.

Apple Country: Orchards, Pie & Cozy Eats

  • Apple Picking + U-Pick Farms
    Visit orchards like Julian Farm & Orchard or Volcan Valley Apple Farm to pick apples (and in season, berries, pumpkins, or flowers), often paired with hayrides or petting areas.    

  • Famous Julian Apple Pie
    No visit is complete without tasting pie from popular spots like Julian Pie Company, Mom’s Pie House, or California Mountain Bakery—with options ranging from classic slices to apple-pumpkin crumb with ice cream.   

Outdoors & Scenic Exploration

  • Hiking & Natural Preserves
    Head into Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve for panoramic hikes, or try easier trails like those at Inaja Memorial Park.  

  • Stargazing & Dark Skies
    Julian is an officially designated International Dark Sky Community, making it ideal for stargazing—check out the Milky Way and brilliant night skies.  

Charming Downtown & Local Culture

  • Main Street
    Wander the walkable downtown: discover quaint boutiques, antique shops, eateries, galleries (like the Julian Arts Guild), and enjoy the nostalgic ambiance.   

  • Julian Beer Co. & Cider Tasting Rooms
    Relax with local brews or cider flights at welcoming indoor-outdoor venues—perfect for unwinding by a fire pit.  

Family-Friendly & Kid-Centric Attractions

  • Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures
    Step back in time with themed adventures ideal for young families.  

  • Oasis Camel Dairy
    A unique and fun experience—especially for kids who love animals.  

  • California Wolf Center
    Just outside Julian, this educational and conservation-focused facility is dedicated to endangered wolf species.  

  • Lake Cuyamaca Park
    A scenic spot for picnics, relaxing outdoors, or mild walks.  

Arts & Entertainment

  • Julian Theater Company
    Enjoy live theater performances—from classics to community-written plays—at the local performing arts venues.  

  • Julian Arts Guild Gallery
    Explore art exhibitions featuring local artists—paintings, jewelry, photography, weaving, and more—on display in the Historic District.  

Seasonal Events & Festivals

  • Julian Apple Days Festival & Autumn Jubilee
    Celebrated from mid to late October, these seasonal festivals feature hayrides, cider pressing, hoedowns, crafts, archery, tomahawk throwing, and a festive fall vibe.  

  • Year-Round Events
    Julian hosts a variety of events throughout the year—check the Chamber of Commerce’s event calendar for current happenings.