Local Julian Experiences
Boutique Shops
Explore the charm of Julian’s boutique shops and local eateries, where historic streets come alive with unique finds and flavors.
Stroll through specialty stores, art galleries, and antique shops, which offer an exceptional variety of arts, crafts, old-fashioned candy, and one-of-a-kind mementos.
After shopping, savor a delicious meal at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh, local cuisine. Julian’s blend of quaint shops and delightful dining creates an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
Gold Mine Tours
A gold mine tour in Julian offers a hands-on glimpse into the rich history that shaped this charming mountain town. Step back into the 1870s and explore the tunnels of Eagle Mining Co., where knowledgeable guides share stories of the gold rush, early prospectors, and the grit it took to chase fortune in the hills of San Diego County.
Beyond the history lesson, it’s simply fun. You can try your hand at gold panning, walk through original mining shafts, and experience a bit of adventure beneath the surface. It’s an engaging way to connect with the spirit of Julian—where history, discovery, and a little playful exploration come together.
California Wolf Center Tour
Choose Your Tour Option
From their website:
“All of our tours are 1 hour in length and offer guests an unforgettable experience where you’ll have the opportunity to see critically endangered wild wolves and learn all about them from an expert at our Conservation Facility on KQ Ranch Rd. (About 10 minutes from Julian.)
We offer three tour options: Public Wolf Conservation and Behavioral Enrichment Tours, Private Tours, and Special Event Tours*.
We host the seasonally themed Special Event Tours about once a month, where guests can give our ambassador packs themed enrichment items, and receive a complimentary gift.”
Sky Falconry
From their website:
“Sky Falconry, Southern California’s premiere federally licensed falconry school, invites you to experience flying trained birds of prey to your glove and learn about one of the world’s oldest hunting traditions in the picturesque settings of San Diego and the mountains of Alpine.
Sky Falconry offers everyone the rare opportunity to free fly trained birds of prey to the glove and experience the awe of these majestic predators.
Come as a hands-on participant or observer and learn about raptor biology, conservation and the ancient art of falconry in the Basic Falconry Lesson, a variety of Hawk Walks for more glove time with the raptor, and a Private Raptor Experience for the ultimate in depth class. Enjoy this intimate animal encounter in picturesque settings of Southern California!”
Reservations Required:
Endless Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails
There are hundreds of hiking trails in the local back country of San Diego County.
The following are some of the local trails to explore, depending on how much time you have here:
Anza Borrego Desert State Park
Cleveland National Forest
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
Hikes along the Pacific Crest Trail (this is the trial that runs from Mexico to Canada that is well traveled during Spring and Summer)
Laguna Mountain Recreation Area
Lake Cuyamaca Recreation & Park
Santa Ysabel Nature Center
Santa Ysabel Preserves
Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve
William Heise Park
Lions, Tigers, and Bears Sanctuary Tour
EXPLORE OUR EXOTIC ANIMAL
AND BIG CAT RESCUE IN ALPINE.
Visit and explore Lions Tigers & Bears in San Diego’s beautiful countryside. Embark on a guided aventure of the sanctuary and animal habitats. Meet lions, tigers, bears, and other big cats like jaguars, leopards, bobcats, and servals, along with dozens of ranch animals.
Home to more than 60 animals, representing 19 species, the ranch has a rich history for you to soak in and explore. Lions Tigers & Bears is located on what was once a Cattle ranch, trading post and bordering the Cleveland National Forest. During your visit, you will see the historical adobe structure that still exists on our grounds.
Visits take place Wednesday through Saturday and all ages are welcome.
Michelle Dutro
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