Things To Do in Julian, California

Julian is a quaint town nestled in the mountains of San Diego County in Souther California. Julian is an official California Historical Landmark, ideal for a cute day trip with friends or a sweet weekend with your honey. It's located wayyyy up in what's considered to be North San Diego County.

This is a town known for its apples, think apple pie, hard apple cider, regular apple cider, apple butter, you name it. Julian is certainly a small town that you don't need too long to visit. It's not a place that you would need three days to explore, it's more known for its quaintness, apples, & charm. Julian is one of those places you absolutely need to visit. It makes a great day trip for a few hours or spent the night in a cottage as a weekend trip. You could even camp nearby.

I visited Julian CA several times as a little girl, but this was my first experience going as an adult with my own agenda. My boyfriend & I explored the town on foot; it's so petite that you can see nearly everything in about a day. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Julian CA & on Main Street!

1. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts

Stop by this century old cottage for tea. Call ahead to make a reservation or come in early to do so. There are only a handful of tables, so don't miss out. You get bottomless tea for $3.95 per person & there's a lunch menu too. The teas are tasty & the food is handmade! Everything is so charming. We got the Cream Tea which came with buttermilk biscuits, jam, whipped cream, & lemon curd for $8.95. All handmade! Shop for tea, teapots, & everything tea related. Even my boyfriend loved the experience.

2. Julian Pie Company

Julian Pie Company is a must. This place is a legend. They sell their pies across the county, so they've gotten more popularity & you'll usually find a line out the door. There are only a few tables to eat at; you're lucky if you get a seat. We stopped by to try something different than their famous pies: cider donuts. Yep, apple cider donuts. They were pure heaven with a touch of spice. Kinda wish I had one (or two) right now. They offer chocolate, cinnamon sugar, & maple varieties. They have pies,  of course, but don't skimp on the muffins. The pumpkin muffin is *MUAH! Chef's kiss delicious.

3. Old Julian Book House

Get your knowledge on with this cool bookstore. They have a vast selection from birdwatching to old school Nancy Drew novels. Most come at very reasonable prices but definitely not thrift store value. Some are vintage & some not so much. You'll find a variety of books. Each room has a few selected genres: religious, fiction, sports, to make your journey simpler. I was pleased to see anyone from young kids to grandparents in the book house.

4. The Candy Basket

Like sweets? Know someone who does? Stop by this nostalgic candy shop & buy some in bulk. There are plenty of taffys, gummies, chocolates, lollipops, & licorice to choose from. There's also those classic candies you rarely see anymore like Mary Janes & Walnettos. We purchased some of the cheaper bulk candies; kids will love you for it. Munch & reminisce.

5. Julian Soap Company

I adore handcrafted items made with love. Michaeline creates everything herself. Shop for soap slices, fabric wrapped soap, potpourri, room sprays, & more. You can smell the mixture of scents wafting through the air the second you walk in the door. If you're like me, you'll sniff everything before making a decision. I purchased the Lemon Thyme soap for my mom; she loved it.

6. Blue Door Winery

We were walking around & spotted a "wine tasting" sign. I was sold. You'll get six tastings for $10. Now that's a price I'll get on board for. I recommend their sangria; it was so scrumptious & poured in a reusable plastic cup you may keep as a souvenir. Wine is served in wine glasses. The tasting room is open, light, & welcoming. Feel free to bring your dog. Beware! Blue Door Winery is closed Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday.

Related reading: One of the Best Views in San Francisco: Pier 14

Other places to check out include Julian Pioneer Museum, William Heise County Park, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. You could do apple picking, which sounds like so much fun! Explore the hiking trails. Stay in nearby Julian hotels for convenience.

Support small businesses & browse the wonders that Julian has to offer! There's more than meets the eye. We had such a joyous time exploring & walking around the town. It was especially wonderful since it was cold & gloomy, an experience we rarely witness in San Diego. Which of these looks like a place you'd like to visit? Have you been to Julian? :]

Check out the Visit Julian website for more information on things to do, eat, stay, & everything else!

Follow me for more food, travel, & the California way of life:

   Bloglovin // Facebook // Instagram // Pinterest // Twitter

Oh & add me on Snapchat for exclusive content: carmenvarner