San Juan Capistrano offers a marvelous mix of history, charm, and fabulous food – a must-visit for anyone exploring South Orange County, California. It is a place that has great meaning to Bernadine Cruz, who is a retired veterinarian who became an entrepreneur to assess a need she saw while traveling.
Cruz is a traveler of life, one who loves adventure. Aside from her Orange County, CA practice, she has served as a trail vet for the 1,000-mile Iditarod and Yukon Sled Dog Races along with several other shorter races in the contiguous 48 states.
All her grand adventures make her an expert traveler and her opinion of San Juan Capistrano is especially noteworthy with these soaring recommendations.
Trevor’s at the Tracks
26701 Verdugo St, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Begin your OC adventure at Trevor’s at the Tracks. Housed in a 19th-century train depot. Their amazing farm-fresh menu is made even more outstanding with the trains that rumble past. A truly unforgettable dining experience with a side of nostalgia.
Here you will experience the finest cuisine while dining in San Juan Capistrano’s historic train depot built in 1894. Known for its relaxing courtyard patio dining, Trevor’s at the Tracks lets you take in the beauty of Old San Juan as you sit near a soothing fountain and enjoy creative selections from the menu.
After lunch, just on the other side of the train tracks is the Los Rios Historic District. Wander through 18th-century adobe homes, peek into quaint antique shops, or visit their quirky petting zoo. The Tea House on Los Rios offers a cozy spot to sip and unwind and soak in the ambiance.
Mission San Juan Capistrano
26801 Old Mission Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Next, explore Mission San Juan Capistrano, a breathtaking site established in 1776. With its serene courtyards, and centuries-old artifacts, it is easy to envision California Golden past. You might even see an iconic swallow swooping through the mission’s bell tower.
This historic landmark and museum is the birthplace of Orange County. It was founded more than two hundred years ago as the 7th of 21 missions statewide and features a chapel still standing where Saint Serra once celebrated Mass. Today, it is a monument to California’s multi-cultural history, embracing its Native American, Spanish, Mexican and European heritage.
San Juan Creek Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Want to burn some calories? Consider biking or walking the trail along San Juan Creek Road. This flat, scenic path leads straight to the coast, making it an ideal way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Himalayan Taste
32341 Camino Capistrano Unit F&G, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
End your day with a culinary journey at Himalayan Taste, where flavorful dishes from the highlands of Nepal and Tibet will leave you dreaming of your next visit to this enchanting town. Popular Dishes include Saag Paneer, Chicken Tandoori, Chicken Momo, Basmati Rice, Vegetable Samosa, Lamb Curry, Chicken Vindaloo, and Vegetable Coconut Curry.
It is places on the planet like this special town that have inspired this globetrotter to lead a positive life. While most doctors are hanging up their stethoscopes, Cruz decided to start a travel bag company. During her 41 years of practice, she also served as a clinician and multi-media, veterinary medicine outreach spokesperson.
She logged numerous travel miles and was always frustrated by her inability to find the perfect carry-on bag. After an eleven and a half hour one way plane trip from hell, Cruz realized that her globetrotting downfall was her gear and if she wanted to continue exploring the world, she would have to design her own luggage. Hence the birth of the ‘ULTI’ travel bag by CONMIGO.
This bag is perfect for any voyager, but Cruz designed it with a special emphasis on the needs of senior and women travelers. A portion of all sales is currently being donated to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation, a charity that cares for the health of people, animals, and the planet we share.
