Bay Area LIFE: Visit charming, historic San Juan Bautista village

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Monday, May 1, 2017
Bay Area LIFE: Visit charming, historic San Juan Bautista village
San Juan Bautista is a charming, historic village surrounded by rolling hills and agricultural fields, alive with early California history and home to one of the most authentic, picturesque and pristine missions along the California mission trail.

Visit a town that will make you feel like you've stepped back into the Old West.

San Juan Bautista is a charming, historic village surrounded by rolling hills and agricultural fields, alive with early California history and home to one of the most authentic, picturesque and pristine missions along the California mission trail.

It's located in San Benito County and less than two hours from the Bay Area. Since the Mission's founding date on June 24th 1797 there has been a Catholic presence on the site. Approximately, 45,000 4th grade students tour the mission and state park every year.

A deep commitment to preservation has endowed the city with historic authenticity, including a nationally registered historic district, a main street lined with buildings straight out of the old west and original adobes dating back two centuries.

San Juan Bautista also supports multicultural performing arts and artists, festivals and street fairs year round.

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Phil Foster Ranch

Phil Foster Ranch has been certified organic for 28 years. They grow everything from all kinds of vegetables to apples, cherries, pears, figs and walnuts. Approximately, 70% of crops are marketed within a hundred miles of the ranch. The produce is sold to 25 different stores in the area as well as at farm stands.

Farm Stand:

400 Duncan Ave.

San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

Phone: 831-623-9422

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El Teatro Campesino

The company was started in 1965 and came to San Juan Bautista in 1971. The shows are based on social justice. Everyone is welcome to be involved in the theater or just come to see the productions.

Located:

705 4th St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

(831) 623-2444

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Mission Gallery

Mission Gallery has been in San Juan Bautista for 18 years. The gallery specializes in original prints, etchings, engravings and woodblock prints.

Located:

106 3rd St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

(831) 623-2960

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Hacienda De Lal

Hacienda De Lal is a boutique hotel that went through a complete remodel three years ago. It's styled after the mission complete with a rustic lobby, red tile roof and a vibrant patio area. The hotel specializes in private events.

Located:

410 The Alameda, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

(831) 623-4380

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Posada de San Juan

General Manager Eduardo Hernandez's grandfather with the help of other family members built the hotel 25 years ago for his wife. The hotel features beautiful woodwork and a grand fireplace in the lobby. It's been a family run hotel since it was first built.

Located:

310 4th St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

(831) 623-4030

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Jardines de San Juan

Jardines de San Juan is a beautiful restaurant that serves tradition Mexican cuisine. You can dine inside or outside in the vibrant patio/garden area. It's also a perfect venue for special events like weddings.

Located:

115 3rd St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

(831) 623-4466

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Dona Esthers Mexican Restaurant

A family-run restaurant offering Mexican eats, margaritas and live mariachi music on weekends.

Located:

25 Franklin St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

(831) 623-2518

Sweet Pea Antiques

Sweet Pea Antiques has been in San Juan Bautista for 11 years. The store is located inside a building that once housed a one room school house in 1868. Sweet Pea Antiques carries everything from Victorian to art deco, Mid-Century modern to shabby chic and upcycled items and lots of garden items like gates and doors.

Located:

400 3rd St

San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

Phone number(831) 623-9338

Mrs. B's Z-Place

Mrs. B's Z-place specializes in 40's and 50's dress styles as well as Flapper and Victorian era looks. You'll also find lots of beautiful jewelry, shoes, hats and so much more.

Located:

1. 306 3rd St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

(831) 623-8880

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Vertigo Coffee Roasters

Vertigo Coffee Roasters roast their coffee on site and create all kinds of delicious drinks. The café also offers wood fired pizzas. You can also enjoy pop up art shows at the venue.

Located:

81 Fourth Street San Juan Bautista, CA 95045

(831) 623-9533

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