Side Trip to Julian, California

If you’re looking to extend your stay in Julian past a day trip, there are some excellent hotels. Many of them have a historic feel, such as The Julian Lodge, and some lean into the bed & breakfast angle, like Orchard Hill.

The Julian Hotel

Julian Gold Rush Hotel

For a truly unique experience, stay at the Julian Gold Rush Hotel.

This Victorian-themed hotel is a nationally-registered historic landmark, and harkens back to the town’s history during the mining boom in the 1890s.

From shopping to apple picking, Julian’s quaint small-town vibes make it an irresistible stop on any day trip.

Many Shops in Downtown Julian

Boutique Shopping Along Main Street

Julian’s Main Street is lined with boutique stores and little touches of local culture and history. This once-mining town still maintains the feel of the Old West, and simply walking down Main Street feels like stepping back through time.

I loved checking out the different shops during my visit, and there were lots of cute sidewalk cafes.

Kid Hiking at Tecolote Canyon Natural Park

Hiking

Southern California’s warm weather and dry climate make it ideal for hiking. The lovely San Diego Hiking Tour focuses on trails at Tecolote Canyon and Mission Trails Regional Park, but it’s worth your time to head out to Julian for some outdoor excursions too.

Many of Julian’s best-known hiking trails can be found around the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and the Santa Ysabel East Preserve. The mountain trail paths at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve are especially fun and offer some beautiful views.

Visiting the Orchards

There are quite a few orchards in Julian. Swing by and pick fresh fruit right from the trees, or take home a baked good to enjoy.

If you’re visiting a Julian farm with the family, many orchards have guided tours and educational displays that show kids what life is like on a farm.

Desert Bighorn Sheep at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Meeting Wolves

Julian is also home to a wolf sanctuary. At the California Wolf Center, you can tour the only wolf reserve in San Diego County.

While San Diego has plenty of animal attractions like the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, both of which are part of the Go City San Diego pass, there’s something special about seeing these wolves up close. On a tour, you can even meet some of the reserve’s ambassador wolves!

All tours must be booked in advance. There is a Visitor Center and Nature Store at 2775 B St. in Julian, while the reserve itself is located at Tall Pine Rd & K Q Ranch Rd.

Exploring a Winery

Julian has multiple wineries where you can tour the grape fields, sample wine, and buy a bottle or two to enjoy at home. Some spots even sell a unique apple wine!

Some of the most well-known include Volcan Mountain Winery, Blue Door Winery, and Menghini Winery.

Julian’s dining scene is incredible, with so many great eateries. I’d be here all day if I listed them all, so here are a few of my top picks.

The Julian Pie Company

Famous Apple Pies

It’s not an exaggeration to say that Julian is famous for its apple pies. It’s such a big thing here that there’s even an annual Apple Days festival!

The argument over who makes the best apple pie in Julian rages on, but there are plenty of places that have earned their great reputation. One of the most famous is Julian Pie Company, which has been running strong since 1986.

Julian Pie Co. may be the most famous, but it’s far from the only pie maker. Consider sampling a few different places and creating your own tier list!

Entrance to the Julian Beer Co

Julian Beer Co.

Pizza and beer are practically as much of American staples as apple pie, and there’s little that’s more American than enjoying barbecue on a hot summer day. I’m pleased to report that Julian doesn’t disappoint on this front either.

On our trip, we had dinner at Julian Beer Co., which is one part pizza and BBQ restaurant and one part brewery. It was so delicious that at the end of our meal, we ordered an extra pizza to go so we could enjoy it the next day!

Alaska Airplane at the San Diego International Airport

There aren’t any direct public transportation routes between San Diego and Julian, making driving your best option.

Thankfully, the distance isn’t too far. Judging the distance from the San Diego International Airport (SAN) near Downtown, it’s about 60 miles northeast and a 1 ½-hour drive.

Most people take CA-79 S, but the route on CA-78 W has a similar travel time.