Photo: Eagle Mining Company
The tiny town of Julian is only a 60 mile drive northeast of San Diego, but it feels like you have stepped back in time. This cute gold rush town is exactly what you have dreamed the Wild West would have looked like. And if you’re in the mood for fall, there’s no better time to visit Julian; because it’s at 4,200 feet, Julian is one of the only parts of San Diego that experiences four distinct seasons.
Here are some highlights in Julian that you don’t want to miss:
Eagle Mining Company
If you’re curious about the history of this gold rush town, mosey on over to the Eagle Mining Company, where you’ll experience life just like the miners of old. Eagle Mining Company gives 1 hour tours that guide you through the life of an 1870s mining operation (they have 1,000 feet of underground tunnels!) The kids will love panning for gold and perusing the Rock Shop.
Note: it’s cash only so be prepared.
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Julian Pie Company
After you work up an appetite, Julian Pie Company is the place you want to find. There are lots of places around town to find a juicy slice of apple pie, but if you want the best, this is the place (and it’s the locals’ favorite). You’ll find about 12 different types of pies fresh out of the oven all day long, including numerous variations of apple, pecan, blackberry, blueberry, strawberry, and peach.
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Cider Mill
Fall is not complete without some fresh pressed apple cider, and you’ll find it on the heart of Main Street in Julian at the Cider Mill. You’ll also find local honey, apple and pumpkin butter, and plenty of classic candy and treats. Don’t go home without some (get there before apple season is over)!
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Miner’s Diner
If your kids get too sugared up and need some “real food”, the Miner’s Diner is your next stop. It’s a good old fashioned 50s style diner that serves classic burgers, fries, fried chicken as well as shakes, malts, and sundaes. This place gets extremely busy and the lines get long, so we recommend eating outside of the standard 12-1pm and 5-6pm dinner timeframes.
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Julian Mining Company
Okay, last but not least, the Julian Mining Company is always a fun stop. Gold and gem mining are popular with the kids here, but what really amps up the fun is that in the fallll, you can also pick pumpkins at the Cross Family Farm Pumpkin Patch. Cross Family Farm Pumpkin Patch also offers hayrides, farm animals, and lots of open space for the kids to run and play. You’re out in the countryside so enjoy the beautiful scenery!
