There aren’t too many places that successfully combine a rich sense of history with entertainment suitable for small children – not to mention great shopping and restaurants. San Juan Capistrano (SJC) is one of them.
The town is justifiably famous for its beautiful mission, and it’s a definite must-see, along with the charming Los Rios historic district. Children and their adult companions will enjoy the gentle Zoomars Petting Zoo. The town’s distinctive shops offer great one-of-a-kind gifts, and there are restaurants to satisfy all ages and tastes.
All of these attractions are located within easy walking distance of the San Juan Capistrano Metrolink Station, a charming Mission Revival Style originally built in 1894 and upgraded extensively over the years.
A weekend train trip to SJC can be a fun and value-packed adventure for the whole family. Particularly during the three-week closure of Ortega Highway, Metrolink is an ideal way to travel to downtown SJC without worrying about freeway access. Travel all day either Saturday or Sunday with the Metrolink Weekend Day Pass and enjoy special Metrolink discounts at many destinations.
No visit to San Juan Capistrano is complete without visiting the Mission San Juan Capistrano, the best-preserved structure of its kind in the U.S. Occupying a 10-acre site filled with fountains, gardens and walkways, the mission is the seventh of the 21 Spanish missions established in California by Franciscan Padres. Known as “the jewel of the missions,” it features exhibits about early mission life and budget-friendly activities for all ages. Enjoy an entry-fee discount with your Metrolink ticket.
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Located near the train station, the Los Rios Historic District is the oldest neighborhood in California. Take a stroll through the District, which contains 31 adobe homes, the earliest built in 1794. Get a discount with your Metrolink ticket at Zoomars Petting Zoo, where kids can ride ponies and feed and pet rabbits, goats and other animals. Explore history at the O’Neill Museum while enjoying your Metrolink discount.
There are a number of outstanding antique shops and dealers within easy walking distance from the train station on Camino Capistrano. Click here to view those offering special deals for Metrolink travelers.
From al fresco courtyard dining to a 40s’-style diner, there are many ways to enjoy a meal in this lovely town. Drop by to fortify yourself after a visit to the mission, Los Rios,or the antique shops. Why not choose a restaurant that discounts great food and great offers to train travelers?
When your time in SJC is done, board your train home and enjoy one of the best parts of Metrolink travel – the opportunity to sit comfortably with your family and share the day’s adventure while leaving stress and traffic behind.
