Tucked away in the rolling hills of Southern California is a paradise for anyone with a soft spot for fresh produce and the great outdoors. Julian is more than just a spot on the map – this little town is bursting at the seams with U-pick orchards, artisanal cideries, and bakeries that have turned pie-making into an art form. Enjoy the charm of rural life and the joy of eating something you picked with your own two hands? Julian, California, is calling your name. Pack your bags, because adventure, and perhaps the best apple pie you’ll ever taste, awaits.

U-Pick Apples in Julian, California

Julian, California, is home to a variety of U-pick orchards. Here, visitors can experience the joy of picking their own apples, among other fruits. Peak season is from August to October when these orchards offer a hands-on way to connect with local agriculture and to select the freshest produce directly from the trees.

The region, known for its rich agricultural heritage, provides an immersive experience into the world of farming. This makes it a perfect destination for families and individuals looking to learn more about where their food comes from and to spend some time outdoors.

Click here to see a list of U-pick Farms in Julian, California.

Fresh Fruit Pies and more at Julian Pie Company

The Julian Pie Company, established by Liz Smothers in 1986, has been serving delicious pies for over 30 years. Liz’s passion for pie making was inspired by her childhood experiences with her mother. After gaining experience in local pie shops, her love for pied making led her to open her own company.

The family-operated orchard planted in 1989 helps the company ensure quality and the freshest ingredients for their pies. Today, Liz’s focus is quality control and customer satisfaction. This allows Liz to continue the tradition that has made Julian Pie Company a beloved destination for pie lovers.

Click here to plan a trip to this Julian, California destination.

Visit the Cideries of Julian, California

Julian, California, is celebrated for its cideries. These cider houses offer a range of unique and flavorful hard ciders made from locally sourced apples. They also highlight the region’s rich apple-growing heritage and invite visitors to experience the artisanal cider-making process firsthand. Click here to plan a trip to one of these Julian, California destinations.

Local Wine at Blue Door Winery

In the sun-drenched landscapes of San Diego, Blue Door Winery stands as a testament to the passion and perseverance of its founders, Mark Hashagen and his family. What began as a hobby between friends has blossomed into a thriving family business. It is deeply rooted in the community and dedicated to crafting exceptional French and Italian red wines.

Blue Door Winery offers two distinct experiences: the urban winery in San Diego and the charming satellite tasting room in Julian. Each location provides a unique backdrop – from the industrial chic feel of their San Diego location to the rustic warmth of the Julian tasing room – come explore Blue Door wines.

Click here to plan a trip to this Julian, California destination.

Farm Fun Adventure at Fort Cross

Fort Cross, a farm nestled in the beautiful mountains of San Diego County, isn’t your typical farm. Sure, delicious produce and fragrant flowers grow there like raspberries, apples, pumpkins, and lilacs. However, Fort Cross is so much more. It is an agritourism destination that blends education, entertainment, and adventure, all wrapped up in a fun, family-friendly experience.

The annual Spring Lilac Festival at Fort Cross is a two-day event bursting with family-friendly activities.

Immerse yourselves in the beauty of lilacs with lilac-themed crafts and candle dipping. Explore the farm and visit the farm animals or get lost in the wonder of the lilac maze. You can also enjoy exciting activities like a reptile show, a hoedown, and a jug band show!

Click here to plan a trip to this Julian, California destination.

Sip in the Freshness at Julian Station – Julian, California

Julian Station, located directly across from Fort Cross Farm, enriches the Julian area with a unique blend of local culture and entertainment. Offering an eclectic mix of tasting rooms, including Julian Hard Cider and The Cooler Craft Beer Tap & Tasting Room, this destination is a hub for both locals and visitors alike.

Julian Station also hosts live music every weekend, providing a lively atmosphere for all who come to explore, dine, and enjoy the stunning views of the Volcan Mountain Range.

Click here to plan a trip to this Julian, California destination.

Julian Farm & Orchard

The Julian Farm and Orchard offers a delightful U-pick experience. It is a place where visitors can harvest their own strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Berry picking takes place during the summer months of June, July, and August. This family-friendly destination not only allows guests to pick fresh berries directly from the vine, but offers various seasonal activities. It’s a perfect outing for those looking for the freshest produce and a chance to connect with nature.

Click here to plan a trip to this Julian, California destination.

This article was written by Meg van der Kruik. Photo credit James Collier for California Grown.