Julian, CA

Things to do in Julian, California

How to spend a weekend in Julian, CA

Saturday

We started off our morning with breathtaking views at the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. I say this both literally and figurately speaking because the trail was mostly uphill but the view was worth it. There was no parking lot, but we easily found parking along the side of the road. The path is clearly marked and there are portable restrooms available at the beginning of the hike. Many had their dogs with them - seeing their paw prints in the mud was so cute. We detoured and took the Five Oaks Trail which consisted of many steps but am glad we did because it was beautiful. The hike was very shaded for the most part and even had some snow in some areas! 

After our hike, we quenched our thirst at Volcan Mountain Winery which was less than a 4 minute drive from the trailhead. There was plenty of parking and the Winery was easy to spot. There was live music and had such a beautiful ambiance. There were families with their kids and some people had dogs with them, making it the perfect place to gather with loved ones and enjoy their day. We tried a few of their wines, and I fell in love with their Grenache Rose. It was the perfect combination of dry and flavorful at the same time! I had never tried wine like this before. It was a nice sunny day so we decided to sit outside to enjoy the crisp air with our wine, have our picnic snacks, and play some cornhole.

Thank you Volcan Mountian Winery for having us! We really enjoyed your wine and had a great time!  

We then headed to our airbnb to rest and clean up before dinner. We really hit the jackpot with our airbnb. The cottage had a fire pit, private outdoor jacuzzi, indoor fireplace, and heated bathroom floors - not to mention it was really nice inside! My mom LOVED IT. 

By this time we were really hungry, so we headed for our early dinner at Julian Beer Co. The brewery has plenty of parking located in the back and had both indoor and outdoor seating. There are two buildings right next to each other; one is more of a restaurant feel, while the other is a brewery with lots of long benches for larger groups and even allowed dogs. The good news is they both serve the same thing so it really does not matter which side you order from, you can get food and drinks from both and sit wherever you'd like. They have delicious pizzas and offer beer flights, beer by the glass, or even pitchers. I really enjoyed their pour of New Venture. They also have BBQ, other sides, and are available for private events!

Thank you Julian Beer Co. for having us! We will forever have great memories of Julian Beer Co. 

After dinner, we relaxed in the Jacuzzi and watched the beautiful star filled sky then had some hot chocolate while we played board games. It was so nice. 

Sunday 

The next day we went to check out the Julian Station. It was a western-themed mini marketplace that had shops and restaurants. Dogs are welcome and they have both indoor and outdoor seating. My favorite part was that it had a corner dedicated as a free play area for kids. As a mom, I would love to come here and have my little one play while I enjoyed a drink or two. 

As we were celebrating my mom's birthday, we decided to have lunch at Jeremy's on the Hill. This was by far our favorite part of the trip. The restaurant was so beautiful with both indoor and outdoor seating and allows dogs in their patio area. We even got to meet Jeremy himself! As my brother described it, "this was the most amazing meal I have ever had in my life". The food was just THAT GOOD. Everything was cooked to perfection, it was simply fresh and creatively put together. Their chocolate martini was not too sweet but refreshing at the same time and made us want to order 10 more. Everyone has to try Jeremy's on the Hill at least once in their lifetime. We HIGHLY recommend it. 

Thank you Jeremy's on the Hill for having us. We will never forget our celebration with you! We had an enjoyable experience.  

After our delicious lunch, we went to see the Julian Farm and Orchard. We got to explore the farm, visit the petting zoo, and got to pick our very own daffodils. The farm has games and entertainment for all members of the family and even allows dogs on their property. They also have a small shop in the front where you can get goodies and souvenirs. The season opens up in March 2023 so be sure to mark your calendars! Don't miss out on the fun! 

Not only do they have u-pick daffodils in March, but they have apple, berry, and pumpkin picking throughout the year.

Thank you Julian Farm and Orchard for having us! We had lots of fun and wish you the very best this upcoming season!

With our new pretty bouquet of flowers, we headed on the road to go home. On the way, we were mesmerized to see two camel walking within eye sight of the road. Turns out there is an Oasis Camel Dairy where you can feed and ride the camels! We will have to be back to check it out! 

Weekend Itinerary in Julian

Saturday

• Hike Volcan Mountian
• Picnic lunch and wine at Volcan Mountain Winery 
• Rest at Airbnb
• Dinner at Julian Beer Co.
• Jacuzzi and board games with family

Sunday

• Shop at Julian Station
• Lunch at Jeremy's on the Hill
• Pick flowers at Julian Farm and Orchard
• If still time, check out Camel Farm

In summary, this is the most dog friendly place we have visited!

-Out of Office.

With love, Erica

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