Explore History

Because there is so much in San Juan Bautista to see and experience, consider one of these excellent tours and get lost in the beauty of history.

Geology Field Trips to the San Juan Bautista Region

The geology around San Juan Bautista is some of the most spectacular in North America. This geology website provides field trips (hiking, biking, and driving) to destinations throughout the region around San Juan Bautista, Hollister, and Gilroy. See where the San Andreas, Calaveras, and other regional faults, as well as an abundance of rocks, landscape features, and wildlife habitats, can be viewed.

The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail

The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail goes through San Juan Bautista. The trail route follows an unpaved 8 mile section of trail through the northern Gabilan Range starting near downtown San Juan along the Alameda south of Highway 156 at the intersection with San Juan Canyon Road, Salinas Road, and Mission Vineyard Road. Park near the trailhead, and walk this scenic mountain trail to explore local geology, wildlife, and wildflowers in the spring.

Old Mission San Juan Bautista

Mission Tour & Gift Shop Hours: Monday-Sunday 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Closed Major Holidays.

Admission: $4.00 adults $3.00 seniors, $2.00 – 5 years of age and over. Under 5 years of age – free.

406 2nd St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045
(831) 623-4528

Organic Farming / San Juan Valley

A drive through San Juan Valley offers the freshest healthy produce available in the market today. The rich, fertile soil supplies 90% of the Organic vegetables available at markets across the nation. Follow the map for a complete tour and see these crops growing in abundance. Be sure and stop at a Pinnacles Organic Farms for the “just picked” taste of farm fresh.

Pinnacles National Park/Gateway Partners

From National Monument to National Park less than an hour drive away. San Juan Bautista is a proud member of the Pinnacles Gateway Partners. Spend the day hiking the many trails, interacting with the rangers, observing wildlife, or rock climbing. The Pinnacles are known for their Condor preservation program, where visitors can see the giant Condor birds soaring with their 60” wing span, high above the park.

5000 Highway 146, Paicines, CA 95043
(831) 389-4486

San Juan Bautista Ghost Walk

Available only in October. Take a guided walking tour of several local sites with ghost sightings and paranormal activities! Includes goodie bag and beverages. Hosted by and proceeds benefit the Rotary Club of San Juan Bautista.

San Juan Bautista Historic District Walking Trail

While you’re walking around town, learn some San Juan History and you’ll see the town from a whole new fascinating perspective! This is a self guided tour that can begin from anywhere.

Click on the link below to view our special self-guided tour webpage.

San Juan Bautista State Historic Park

San Juan Bautista State Historic Park offers guided walking tours Tuesday – Sundays for groups of up to 25 people with advance reservations. Tours are 1 to 1.5 hours and can be customized to meet the interests and needs of your group.

19 Franklin St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045
(831) 623-2753

Wine Tours / San Benito County

The vineyards of San Benito County are tucked away in a nuturing micro-climate ideal for producing premium wines. The vintners of San Benito County are proud to offer wines that continue a tradition of excellence since the 1850s.

Click the link below for a Vineyards Map & Information (Note: map info is being updated, please contact wineries before visiting)