Best Things to do in Julian | Must-see attractions 2025

California Wolf Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

Behind the KQ Campground on Highway 79

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California Wolf Center in Julian, CA serves as a sanctuary for wild wolves, focusing on their recovery and featuring guided tours and a gift shop.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adults: $15, Children (ages 5-12): $10, Children under 5: Free.

William Heise County Park

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

4945 Heise Park Rd

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William Heise County Park in Julian offers nature trails, RV, and tent camping along with basic cabin accommodations, bathrooms, and hot showers.

Duration: About 2-4 hours.

Free. Certain camping fees and cabin reservations may apply.

Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve

7:00 AM–sunset

Park

Farmer Road

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Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve in Julian, CA, spans 5,900 acres of diverse habitats, offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and beautiful scenery.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. No admission fees are required.

Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Nature reserve

Farmer Road outside of Julian

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Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve is a 2,900-acre nature preserve in Julian, California, featuring hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and picnic areas.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. Special ranger-led hikes may have associated costs.

Julian Pioneer Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

2811 Washington St

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Julian Pioneer Museum, established in 1976, preserves the history of Julian, CA. Explore exhibits on gold mining, pioneer life, and local wildlife.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated to support maintenance and operations.

Mildred Falls

Open year-round

Waterfall

Julian

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Mildred Falls in Julian, California, features a scenic waterfall accessible via a three-hour round trip hike, attracting nature lovers and hikers alike.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours for the hike.

Free. Guided tours and programs may incur additional fees.

Julian Town Hall

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Public Building

2100 Main Street

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Julian Town Hall provides visitors with information on local activities, offers brochures, hiking maps, and friendly staff assistance daily from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. All services and materials provided do not require payment.

Santa Ysabel Art Gallery

11:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

30352 Highway 78 Uses Post Office Parking Lot Off Highway 79

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Santa Ysabel Art Gallery in Julian, United States, features local and regional art, fostering community creativity and culture within a historic setting.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Desert View Park

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

423 Inspiration Point Rd

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Desert View Park in Julian, California, offers scenic views and outdoor activities in a tranquil setting, perfect for nature enthusiasts and families.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No admission fees required.

Blair Valley

Open 24 hours

Camping

Borrego Springs

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Blair Valley in Julian, California, features Native American pictographs, ancient morteros, and scenic hiking trails, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

santa ysabel cemetery

Open 24 hours

Church

California

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Santa Ysabel Cemetery in Julian, USA, dates back to the 1800s, providing serene rest for local families with unique views of the surrounding landscape.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No charges for entry.