Mission San Juan Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano

I was completely blown away by the beauty and the history of this mission. What also impressed me is that the facility still plays an active role in serving their community, gardening for their food pantry. Missions have a complicated history with the indigenous peoples of the Americas but I noticed that there was special attention taken to acknowledge the sacredness of their culture as well as the Catholic faith. Another interesting part of the mission what the generous donation given by a local Jewish couple to restore some of the artwork. There’s a definite feeling of community beyond one set religion and it provided a welcoming environment for all. Oh, and it’s absolutely beautiful was well. A must see.

Was recommended to visit, so I took a trip. I don't think they have a designated parking lot, but the street parking wasn't far, so it was okay. The weather was great, and inside the mansion was pretty enough to visit more than a time. (I got the yearly membership, which was less than two visit's price, and they gave me free fish food, so that my kids can enjoy feeding the bit coy fishes, in two different ponds). I recommend the membership, if you go there! I will definitely go there next time! The town, garden, inside gallery, and historical museums are worth visit.

Talk about a great historic place, and so close to home for us. Even if its a drive, take it. Well worth it. Plenty to see and enjoy. Lost of cool things to take pictures of. If you're into history as I am, you'll have such a great time "geeking out" on everything you'll see here. Don't forget there's plenty of places to eat right around the mission.

Really special Mission worth 2 hours' time. Easy parking and so much to see both at the Mission and around town. We purchased tickets from a very friendly young man at the ticket office who assured us we could see it all in 90 minutes. Otherwise we were not going to stop here, thinking we did not have enough time. I loved the church and gardens the most, but the living dwellings also gave great insight to daily mission life. We were bothered during our visit with a very naggy woman named Pam who started telling everyone at 4:30 pm that the grounds were closing and to leave. Numerous guests made comments about her behavior and how unwelcoming and rude she acted. One family said, "If she told us once she told us ten times, okay, we are leaving!" We were told 5 times to get out! We walked around town for ten minutes and were in our car driving away at 5:03 pm, so we were out well before closing time.

I homeschooled my daughter through California history and we finally took a field trip to the San Juan Capistrano Mission. History is never peaches and cream, but it is important to learn, so that we may try to do better. Despite its history, the craftsmanship and developed system within the mission was still impressive to see. The golden altar in the church was beautiful. The gardens were well kept and added to the grounds aesthetics. Popular spot for wedding photos. Adult admission was $18 and youth admission was $10. The staff was helpful and welcoming. We also liked that they provided us with a hand held audio tour.