San Juan Capistrano, California

Attractions

Mission San Juan Capistrano

Visit Mission San Juan Capistrano historic landmark and museum.  The whole family will enjoy budget-friendly activities, experiencing culture and history in many ways- from audio tours to educational tour booklets, fun exhibits and historical re-enactments.

See a snapshot of California’s history by touring our museum exhibits in both our museum rooms and throughout our 10-acre grounds of gardens, fountains and adobe preserved architecture. Most of our on-going events and exhibits are included in the price of admission.

Find out about upcoming events

Zoomars Petting Zoo

We’re one of a kind and hay bales of fun.  We’re good times, friendly animals and the happiest folks you’ll ever meet.  For the past 30 years our little zoo has charmed more than three million visitors.

You’ll meet potbellied pigs, super sweet sheep, loveable llamas and friendly cows. Feed apples to the donkeys, hear turkeys gobble for grapes and watch the odd-looking emu as she stretches her neck for carrot. Follow Tonka the tortoise as he cruises the grounds while a hen and her chicks race by.

Hop in the bunny patch to cuddle with cottontails, and then brave the goat pen for some very big hugs!

When you’ve had your fill of feeding the animals, hop aboard our mini-train, saddle up for a pony ride or pan for treasures at Miner’s Gulch. Swing and slide in the playground or lose yourself silly in our giant corn box.

We’re big-time fun at a guinea-pig price. Geared mostly for preschoolers but a hoot for all ages. You’ll need about two hours for a good visit but welcome to stay all day. Dress comfortably and be prepared to get a little dusty… you are on a farm after all.

USDA-approved for cleanliness.
Mom-approved for fun!

Member of The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions

Theater

Camino Real Playhouse

Since the early 1990s we have presented over 150 full scale theatrical productions including years of playwriting festivals, 30 shakespeare productions and our crowd pleasing old-west style Melodramas. We have enhanced the lives of our patrons and enriched the community with drama classes for both adults as well as children.

The Camino Real Playhouse is run by a non-profit organization’s board – the Capistrano Center For The Performing Arts. The board is made up of a select group of theatre patrons and professionals dedicated to the future of live community theatre here in South Orange County. Board members are actively engaged in the operation of the theatre and truly constitute a working board representing a wide cross-section of the South Orange County community. Duties of the Board Members include fundraising, staffing, management, accounting, set design, public relations, managing ticket sales, marketing, advertising, educational enrichment programs, group sales and even website design.

Accommodations

Arabella Laguna

Reminiscent of days gone by, historic Arabella Laguna, nestled under towering elms, has all the comforts of home. Each cottage and suite has been beautifully refurbished in eclectic bungalow style. From our location on Gallery Row, you can enjoy a short stroll along the beach, eat in fine restaurants, go boutique shopping, and discover the many wonderful art galleries and museums – all in minutes.

Meander down rose-lined stone pathways. Wake up to the sound of birds and ocean. Under the vine-covered pavilion, enjoy an evening in the garden with someone special.

The historic main cottage has a veranda with a professional kitchen, designed with caterers in mind, and a large gathering area should you require additional space.

Restaurants

Sarducci’s Capistrano Depot

Within its stone walls and brick archways, you’ll dine while viewing the Los Rios district through floor to ceiling windows. The district’s quaint cottages and 200-year-old adobes are nestled in willows, bougainvillea and cacti with nothing to separate you from the beauty except an occasional train pulling into the station, transporting you into another time. There are several fireplaces and cozy private dining areas, making this one of the most romantic settings for that special occasion, while surrounded by the works of many local artists.

Known for its relaxing courtyard patio dining, Sarducci’s lets you take in the beauty of Old San Juan as you sit near a soothing fountain under a century-old pepper tree and enjoy your favorite beverage, appetizer or creative selection from their varied menu.