San Diego’s favorite local day trip

Everyone loves Julian’s small-town charm, apple pie, mining history and stargazing (Julian is one of only two designated dark-sky communities in California). On the way up the mountain, be sure to stop in Santa Ysabel for freshly baked bread at Dudley’s Bakery and lunch at Farmhouse 78.

California Wolf Center

2775 B St.; 760-765-0030 www.californiawolfcenter.org

Learn about wild wolves at the visitor center and nature store; reserve a tour at the wolf conservation facility off Hwy 79.

Eagle Mining Co. 2320 C St.; 760-765-0036 www.theeaglemining.com

Learn California mining history by touring an oldfashioned gold mine, panning for gold and exploring 1,000 feet of tunnels.

Julian Jail

1927 4th St.

This two-cell jailhouse, built in 1914, offers an intriguing piece of Julian history. Easily accessible and free to visit.

Julian Pie Company

2225 Main St.; 760-765-2449 www.julianpie.com

The popular Julian Pie Company has been serving up delicious pie for decades. Enjoy 10+ pie varieties and be sure to try the apple cider donuts. Also in Santa Ysabel.

Lake Cuyamaca

15027 Hwy 79; 760-765-0515 www.lakecuyamaca.org

This 110-acre lake is home to pristine views, an annual kids’ fishing derby (the lake is stocked with trout all year) and a fabulous spot for lunch or dinner (The Pub). Enjoy hiking, picnicking, boating and tent, RV or cabin camping.

Miner’s Diner

2134 Main St.; 760-765-3753 www.minersdinerjulian.com

Handcrafted burgers, an old-fashioned soda fountain, vintage memorabilia, a hidden “candy mine,” and generous dose of nostalgia, what’s not to love? Great spot to grab lunch!

Moms Pie House

2119 Main St.; 760-765-2472 www.momspiesjulian.com

Jump in line for Moms’ scrumptious homemade pies, including apple varieties, bumbleberry, take & bake chicken pot pies. Be sure to try the apple dumplings. Also in Wynola.

Volcan Valley Apple Farm

1284 Julian Orchards Dr.; 760-302-4574 www.facebook.com/volcanvalleyapplefarm

One of several popular u-pick apple farms located in San Diego’s backcountry. Picking season is late summer/ early fall.

Lake San Marcos

1025 La Bonita Dr. 877-526-2671 www.lakehousehotelandresort.com

Enjoy fishing and boating, along with a full-service marina, golf course and lakefront dining. Be sure to check out summer concerts and the Black Swan Gondola Company for a unique experience.

My Yard Live Beer Co.

288 Rancheros Dr. 760-798-0779 www.myyardlive.com

Family-friendly restaurant-brewery offering live music, happy hour and two play areas: the Kid’s Patio features space to run around, a playhouse (on stilts), slide and seating for parents; the Front Yard includes a fire pit, corn hole, outdoor bar and stage.

Wynston's Ice Cream

250 N City Dr. #7

858-923-1411 www.wynstonsicecream.com

Indulge in nationally recognized, award-winning ice cream at this local, family-owned shop. Enjoy favorites like Blue Moon and Old Reliable, rotating seasonal flavors, and dairy-free options.

Valley Center

Bates Nut Farm

15954 Woods Valley Rd.

760-749-3333 www.batesnutfarm.biz

This family-run farm features a petting zoo, shops and plenty of space for family picnics. Check the calendar for fun seasonal events.

Vista

Alta Vista Botanical Gardens

1270 Vale Terrace Dr.

760-945-3954 www.altavistabotanicalgardens.org

A Children’s Garden, Discovery Trail and a Human Sundial are just part of the fun. Some of the engaging activities offered include recycled art, composting and gardening classes.

Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum

2040 N. Santa Fe Ave.

760-941-1791 www.agsem.com

Learn about tractors, steam engines and much more. The model railroad displays are fun for kids of all ages. Closed Mon./Tues.

Boomers Vista

1525 W Vista Way

760-457-4737 www.boomersvista.com

Spend the day enjoying a variety of fun-filled attractions such as bumper boats, laser tag, go-karts, miniature golf, batting cages and a state-of-the-art arcade room. Refuel at the on-site Johnny Rockets restaurant for some tasty diner fare.

Cat & Craft

3211 Business Park Dr. #3B www.catandcraftcafe.com

Play and fall in love with adoptable rescue cats during an hour-long cat lounge experience. Indulge in a variety of espresso drinks, cold brew and fresh food from the connected cafe. Kiddie Cat Hour time slots available for children 6 and younger. Closed Mon./Tues.

Wynola

On your way to Julian, stop for family fun in Wynola (just a few miles outside of town).

Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures 4425 Hwy. 78; 951-847-1904 www.fortcross.com

Enjoy a Farm Tour Adventure (reservations required) at this family-owned outdoor gem. Meet farm animals and reptiles and participate in archery and tomahawk throwing. Check website for events and educational school tours.

Julian Farm & Orchard 4381 Julian Hwy. 760-765-5494 www.julianfarmandorchard.com

Visit the petting zoo, have a picnic, join in seasonal u-pick fruit, daffodils or sunflowers, take a tractor hayride around the property and more. Open weekends.

Julian Mining Company 4444 Hwy. 78; 951-313-0166 www.julianminingcompany.com

Take the family for a fun day of gold panning, gem sluicing, riding the lil’ mine train and axe throwing. v