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Mission San Juan Capistrano
Rating Details »
Categories: Landmarks & Historical Buildings, Museums, Tours
26801 Ortega HwySan Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 234-1300
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- Hours:
Mon-Sun. 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
25 reviews for Mission San Juan Capistrano
This is the most well-kept of all the California missions. It is also the biggest, and the most touristy. It's neat because they still use the mission for various events; we showed up during a botanical garden/exotic plant show.
This is a great place for amateur photographers; everything is so picturesque! It's very cheap, and worth a visit, especially on a beautiful sunny day. Yay!
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When I was a kid, back in my small Irish town, and I asked my Dad when we were going on holiday, when he was getting a car, when we would go to the beach, when was I getting a bike, his reply would always be" When the swallows come back to Capistrano." I took it as a sign that yeah, sometime in the future, depending on what those swallows did. Where the hell Capistrano was, why the swallows left, and when they were coming back all eluded me. Eventually, we did go on holiday, he did buy a car, and I did get a bike, and I vaguely remember being silently grateful to what I thought were Italian swallows.
Imagine my surprise, when on a recent trip to Laguna Beach CA, I learned that Capistrano is actually a Mission in Southern California, the one with the oldest Church in North America, that the swallows leave every fall to winter in Argentina, and come back around 3/15 - St Joseph's Day, and that in the late 1940s - my 20 something Dad would have been slow dancing at the Corinthian with a sixteen year old girl who 20 years later would become my mother, to an Ink Spot tune called " When the Swallows come back to Capistrano."
It is a remarkably beautiful and peaceful spot. Picture post card beautiful, the old Church, ruined by an earthquake over 200 years ago, is majestic. The new one, is jewel-box gorgeous. The mission gardens, trees, buildings, museum displays and histroical documents are all marvellous. There is a lovely little civil war / Abraham Lincoln connection as Honest Abe authorised the return of the Mission back to the Church after it had been a private ranch.
I walked around with Thing1 and Thing2, told them about the grandfather they last saw when they were 2 years old and drank in the history and the beauty of this Southern Califronia masterpiece.
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I LOVE this mission. Admission is $9 for adults, with a free audio tour. Simply pay, swap out your ID for an audio tour, and peruse the grounds.
I haven't been here in a good 10 years and everything is still remarkably enchanting. Something about the arrangment of flowers in the gardens and the lovely architectural scenery takes my breath away.
I have to agree with others that this is my favorite California mission. General admission is about $9 and there's so much to see here - so many flowers in full bloom,beautiful rustic architecture, and cobblestones... it's definitely worth the visit.
It's also a very popular place for engagement shoots. I wanted to do part of my engagement shoot in here, but there's this huge sign at the admissions office that says you need prior permission and notify them at least 2 weeks in advance before you can come and take photos in here, even if you come with a non-professional. Very strict, so if you ever want to take your engagement shoots here, remember to make an appointment!
Needless to say, we left without any pictures of this place, BUT the surroundings around the mission were just as fun - there are so many cute little places and shops around the neighborhood, as well as a train station area and empty parking lot nearby that we had fun playing around in.
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The first time I came to the Mission I was a wee nine years old, and it amazed me even then. Who new 20 years later I would have the privilege of planning events held there (OK only 1 so far...but more to come!)? The Mission is the perfect backdrop for events (no wedding receptions allowed) and for photo shoots (perfect for wedding shots!). The grounds are gorgeous-full of flowers, trees, a fountain with Koi and beautiful historical architecture. Every time I visit I feel an overwhelming sense of peace in the inner courtyard...I could sit there for hours.
Sabrina the Special Events director is so easy to work with too!
If you have never been to The Mission it is a perfect place to spend a Sunday afternoon, a summer evening under the stars listening to live music (they have a summer concert series) or to hold an unforgettable event!
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What a beautiful place! I came here when I was about 12, and I definitely did not appreciate it back then, so I decided to visit again today.
Beautiful grounds, awesome buildings, amazing church...we walked around here for probably close to two hours.
We didn't do the audio tour so we didn't get to hear what everything was all about, but it really didn't matter. There are signs to read all around the place, and just walking around and looking at everything was enough for me.
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I came during the summertime and it was fun! We had a great time walking around the mission.
Fun Day Trip:
1) Take the train to San Jaun Capistrano (much more fun than driving)
2) get some tea at The Tea House on Los Rios
3) Head over to the mission, walk around and enjoy yourself
4) get tacos at the taco shack across the street and head home
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By far my favorite mission! The flowers during the spring time are in full bloom and so colorful! There is quit a lot of see here. This is the best kept and most interesting mission in California ! A must see for California history.
Oh and there is many restaurants and stores within walking distance (even a petting zoo) so an easy way to spend a whole day here!
If you're feeling blue in the flavorless suburban expanse of South Orange County, Mission SJC quickly whisks you away to that historic utopia you're yearning for. The grounds and architecture (circa 1775) are also a nice wake up call that the area is deceivingly historic.
While me nieces and I weren't here to see the esteemed famous Swallows arrive or depart, we were still able to enjoy the stunning and intricate grounds; from the olive mill to the wine vat to the ruins of the basilica and the carefully manicured flora and landscaping and quiet elegance of the courtyards and arcades.
This is a great place for a 7 year old and a 9 year old to pass some time and see local history. It's a solid cultural resource, but among missions, it's probably not as interesting as the Santa Barbara, San Diego or some of the more northern missions I've visited -- hence the four stars.
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Lovely, rustic, old edifice. San Juan Capistrano was named "Queen of the Missions" by Father Serra himself, and you can see why---somewhat. Unfortunately, like an aging beauty queen herself, SJC isn't nearly as lovely as it once was, but imperiously still believes itself to be the standard model of hotness.
The crumblign hallways, and vine covered walls are nice, I admit, but I feel more of a sense of loss by the states of disrepair the mission exists in. Like that ancient glamourpuss (who may actually be your grandmother--I know we all have relatives like that), this one has a grand story or two to tell; the legendary swallows are one (although their numbers have declined quite a bit), the order on display returning the mission to the Catholic church in 1863 (signed by none other than President Lincoln himself) is another.
It's a beautiful spot, but not the best mission. SJC, you were once the hottest. Now you've got to settle for Pleasant grande dame. While Carmel may be Helen Mirren, you're a bit more Elizabeth Taylor. We remember when you looked good, honest.
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For $10 you can see a historic place that once a enormous church. I like the beauty and sense of this place. Very unique and well-maintained.
This Mission is probably more well-known for the return of the Swallows rather than for the Church itself. Coincidentally, the birds' favorite spots are among the stone remains of the decrepit Church. FYI: Swallows return every March 19.
I, and my daughter, Kathy, and her beau toured San Juan Capistrano Saturday... but the main purpose was to get out of a 115 degree forecast where Kathy lives. I'm glad I infused Kathy with an appreciation of History when she was a youngster... you have to have an appreciation of History, not only visiting this Mission, but any of the others in the Mission Chain.
Mission San Juan Capistrano bore the title of "Jewel of the Missions", in it's heyday. Now the only recollection you see are the numerous beds of Flowers in it's vast courtyard, empty troughs where pools used to flow. Nowhere among the depictions of yesteryear does the historical drawings or photos show the original glory that was Mission San Juan Capistrano... it'd be nice if an artistic re-creation be conceived.
Seems as if the Mission itself, now, is a site for non-religious activities... there were two concurrent events on-going... a painting exhibition by a regional painting group: Painting the California Landscape; and an instrumental musical presentation planned for the evening: Music Under the Stars.
Claim to fame: Only Mission where Father Junipero Serra officiated.
A new Basilica is only yards from the original Mission San Juan Capistrano... supposedly built in the same style ( http://www.yelp.com/bi... ).
My personal favorite (along with millions of others, probably):
Mission Santa Barbara ( http://www.yelp.com/bi... ).
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This place is very peaceful and you really get the feeling you are in some place special. Sometimes it's hard to get that historic feeling in CA. This is the only mission I have visited so I really have nothing to compare it to. My mom and I went here on a Thursday in April. We got there about 1pm and I was glad to see the groups of rowdy school kids were getting in line to get back on the school bus. So my suggestion for you is to go some time after 1pm during the week. I'm not religious but this place makes me want to be, if that's possible. There's mystery to be discovered here, if you take the time. Take the audio tour because it will clue you in to what's going on there. Otherwise there isn't many signs or explanations.
Growing up I had Catholic classes at night. You see, my Grandma was a SUPER CATHOLIC and wanted all her grandkids to go to catholic school - my Dad disagreed - and so we went to public school but had CCD on Tuesday nights.
Of the 21 famous Father Serra founded Missions, for as long as I can remember, Mission San Juan Capistrano was the biggest and best. I went there when I was little but only recently have I been able to go a few times this year for work.
It really is just a beautiful and unique place overall - no religion necessary or intended. The gardens, fountains, historic buildings, Mission ruins and return of the Swallows are what make this place one of the coolest things in the WORLD to see (even the World Monument Fund agrees).
One thing I definitely see as a kid was how much this place is based on and in the Local Community - I highly recommend their FANTASTIC AUDIO TOUR to learn more about all this site has to offer.
I promise that no matter who you are, your background, or age you will enjoy what there is to learn and see at MSJC.
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Mission San Juan Capistrano, the 7th Mission was founded on November 1st, 1776. One of the largest missions we've ever been to, this one is located slap in the middle of downtown SJC.
This mission is also home to the "Return of the Swallows" where, every year, around March 19th (St Joseph's Day), the swallows return to the mission.
Historical artifacts as well as dedications to the native Americans and the Spaniards are housed at this vast monument.
Entrance is $7/adults and $5/children. Seniors $6 and under 3 are free. The Mission is open every day from 8.30am to 5pm. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Good Friday afternoon. Mission closes at noon on Christmas Eve.
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I don't really go here for the swallows. I felt a little distance when I saw the olive mill and wine vat. I used to have a California history thing where I would visit a few missions to imagine what life was like or see the bells. It doesn't feel haunted but I wouldn't be surprised if it is. The gardens are nice landscaping.
This place is simply the coolest thing around!! It's a wonderfully, top-notch, California landmark. In fact, the Mission was first built around 1775 so with over 2 years of tradition in its walls...it shouldn't be missed.
Entry is about $7 a a person and it give you access to the entire grounds complete with a pamphlet giving descriptions of the various areas inside. Make sure you walk EVERYWHERE because each corner has its own special feature.
The flowers are beautiful as is the rest of the landscaping...one of the Father's of the past built the fountain in the center around 1920 and planted the surrounding trees, etc.
The chapel is awe-inspiring...the gold piece at the end is said to be approximately 400 years old and is undergoing some restoration. And I agree with Lucy H....if I lived closer I'm sure I'd be a regular parishioner...it's simply beautiful and serene.
The most intriguing thing to me is the area set off to the east side of the Mission...you can see the four replica bells in their towers and the dome which is under reconstruction as well. It's HUGE. Hard to believe it's withstood the 1812 earthquake among others.
The most famous thing about the Mission are the swallows which come back every year around March 19th...over the years due to overpopulation in the area, there have been less and less of the birds and a few of them now make their homes outside of the Mission's walls. But still...it's a site to see them!
Great place to just walk around as well as a fabulous learning experience for children of all ages. If you live in SoCal and haven't been to the Mission...get your butt down there pronto...it's not to be missed.
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Highly recommended. Outside appearance can be deceiving. Once you enter the premise, you are in a whole different world. I once took a girl here on a date. I'm not religious or anything but something about the old church appealed to me at the time. We took some awesome pictures. My favorite is where she's sitting on the bench surround by purple flowers (sorry, I don't even know what type of flowers those were.) Also if you have a chance, take a walk around the area. I'm not one of those people that sees ghosts and UFOs but I'm one of those that can sense presence of ghosts. When I was walking around Mission San Juan Capistrano, I felt strong presence at one particular location. Quick research on the internet revealed that this area is known to be haunted. I'm not telling where I felt the ghostly presence but you should try it sometime. ;-)
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Can you believe I'm a lifelong Californian yet I've never been to a mission? No I know. Crazy. I didn't even build a mission in 4th grade because our teacher thought that it's mostly the parents who do the work, at least for the kids with the nicest missions. SO TRUE. I got no help on my stuff, nor did I ever get a special trip to Michael's for projects, so my stuff usually was made from cardboard boxes and tape. For our sea animals unit, I took a clear strawberry container lid, from back in the day when they had clear lids over green baskets, and taped strings of saran wrap around it to make a jellyfish. My teacher told me it was "creative." Yeah it's embarrassing when your parents don't help you out. Yeah it sucks to drop money on a stupid school project, but save your kids some embarrassment and do it. It's a good thing I didn't have to build a mission. It would have scarred me for life.
Anyways, so firstly, it's $9 for admission for adults, with no student discounts. BOO. But it's because they don't get any funding otherwise (well I guess they do from special events), so it's cool. You get a little audio paddle thing with a laminated card attached. Just punch in the number and listen to the quaint and sometimes scary audio tour. Yeah some parts of it were SO WRONG, like when you drop into what sounds like a lovely mass, and suddenly, the big earthquake hits. And you hear screaming. And rumbling. And then they talk about how the big earthquake destroyed the church and you're standing in front of its ruins.
Yeah. That's the audio tour! Also, the numbered signs around the mission are hard to find, so you just have to use your laminated card and guess where you are, then punch in the number. And then figure out if what the audio tour is about is what's in front of you. It's really hard to tell if the pit in front of you is the tallow pit, the olive press pit, or nothing at all. HA.
The grounds were lovely though. Took enough pictures of monarch butterflies and flowers to last a lifetime. The flowers and vines were so vibrant, and the grounds were peaceful within the mission walls.
I'm glad missions are being preserved, despite their spotty history. They're a part of California, you know?
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This is a great place to visit when you're looking for a spot to meet an old friend or to bring a new one.
I spent a few hours with a friend wandering around the gardens and old brick buildings, perusing artifacts, sitting under old trees and basking in the history and beauty of this place. The history of those Christians 'bringing' their religions to the Indigenous people of the area...giving them the 'honor' of building those heavy stone walls...but, I digress...
There is free parking in the back and it is open everyday from 8:30-5:00. There is an entry fee of 7 dollars (6 for seniors, less for kids).
There are also special events that go on here. When I was here they were setting up for an orchestra night, complete with a stage and tables and chairs in the main gardens. There are also a ton of restaurants in walking distance from here if you want to make a whole day of it.
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I cry at the sight of the basilica my grandmother was once a nun as a child when she grew up in the church. Upon her death she was able to sleep overnight in the basilica before going to her final resting place. Her funeral was one of dreams in the beautiful church. I grew up going with my Auntie to this church and forever in my heart it will be...
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You can't help but love this place.
It's one of the few Southern California places that has history.
Compared to the Northeast, Southern Cali doesn't have as many old buildings around; of course, for you history buffs, it's because "Manifest Destiny" caused the early settlers to slowly move Westward. But, this place has got history and a romanticized feel to it that abounds.
I used to live in Capo Beach, so I got to see this place. Ah...how wonderful the memories are of this place and the entire surroundings.
Still reminds me of that Bugs Bunny cartoon where Bugs sings, "When the swallows come back to Capistrano..."
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The bf is a Catholic so I've been here a few times with his family, usually for Easter service, and before that on a 4th grade field trip. It is arguably the most beautiful mission in SoCal existence and maintained quite well. Be sure to spend some time exploring the mission, including the gardens, soldier barracks, museum rooms, Serra chapel, and gift shop. And if you go for the church, get there early because parking can be a pain and cops are unforgiving about writing up parking tickets, even for CATHOLICS!
I'm used to the typical Protestant service with a youth pastor who either bores me to tears or uses pop lingo to reach their younger audience. Not to mention, Protestant Communion is rare and only during special occasions. So when I experienced Catholic service here for the first time, I felt a little out of place with all the holy water, crossing rituals, priests chanting/singing, and sipping Communion wine from the same germy cup as everyone else! Despite my unfamiliarity with the ritual aspect, the priest, and standing in the back among a sea of strangers (we arrived late and all the seats were filled), I felt welcome, nonetheless, among a congregation of mixed races and backgrounds, ages, and genders. I realized we were all there for one reason and suddenly I didn't feel like a foreigner.
If you went to school in California, you probably remembered studying about the missions of California. I remembered studying about them and I always wanted to visit one when I was a kid but my parents always seemed to ignore my request. During the past weekend, the hun and I wanted to do something without suffering in the heat, so Mission SJC sounded like the perfect escape. The admission fee for adults is $9 and it includes an audio tour with a laminated map of the grounds. Everything that you see at the mission appears to be carefully maintained, from the gardens to the fountains. Walking around the area where the Great Chapel made me think of how visually stunning it once was and how breathtaking the ruins are now. The fountains have some of the most amazing Koi fishes. I'm glad I was finally able to visit.
I grew up around the mission.. Great place to see the swallows come back. I swear they let them out of a cage that day..
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