Historic landmark, museum, and chapel, Mission San Juan Capistrano is the birthplace of Orange County, California. Founded in 1776, this mission became known as the "Jewel of the Missions." Today, the Serra Chapel still stands where Saint Serra once celebrated mass, as well as the Ruins of the Great Stone Church, home to world-famous swallows. It is a monument to California's multicultural history, embracing its Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and European heritage. Explore lush gardens, koi-filled fountains, museum rooms, and original adobe buildings. Among the sites to see is the iconic bell wall where you can experience the daily bell-ringing tradition, as well as tour exhibits featuring historic artifacts and paintings.

Visitors can enhance their trip with a new multi-language audio tour available in English, Spanish, French, and German, and participate in hands-on activities such as panning for gold and adobe brick making. Come see why Mission San Juan Capistrano is worth a visit.