Julian is a historic mining town and mountain retreat about an hour northeast of San Diego and near where Giuseppe grew up, in Santa Ysabel. Its quaint downtown can be explored by foot, and there are many things to do, see and eat in the area (when you're not partying down at Camp Gutierrez, that is):

Food & Drink

Julian Pie Company – You can't visit Julian without tasting some of the pies for which it is famous. 

Dudley's Bakery – Another Julian institution, known for its freshly baked breads and pastries.

U-Pick Orchards – Pick your own fresh apples and pears in peak season at many Julian orchards and fruit stands.

Wineries – Visit one or a few of the area's wineries; Wright Trammel Transportation can take you where you want to go. 

Hard Apple Cider – Taste test hard ciders made from local Julian apples at Julian CiderWorks and Julian Hard Cider.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking – Enjoy hikes and nature walks for all skill levels at Cuyamaca State Park, Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve, Santa Ysabel Open Space Preserve and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Horseback Riding – Integrity Stables offers 1- to 2-hour trail rides through pine and cedar forests, up hills and across meadows.

Warner Springs Ranch Golf Course – A 6,775-yard, 18-hole, Par 72 championship course providing a one-of-a-kind experience for golfers of all skill levels. 

History

Historic Downtown Julian – Pick up a free map at Town Hall and follow the self-guided history walk to explore the historic buildings and markers throughout town.

The Eagle Mining Co. – Tour Eagle and High Peak Mines, two of Julian’s original gold mines. 

Julian Pioneer Museum – Built circa 1890 as a blacksmith shop, it later served as a brewery and is now a museum featuring vintage clothing, photographs, household and mining equipment.

Etc.

Julian Apple Days Festival – Two-day annual festival taking place Sept. 24 and 25 at Menghini Winery featuring apple displays, music and dancing, an antique tractor display, children’s games and activities, gold panning demonstrations, a beer and wine garden, food and merchandise vendors, contests and, of course, apple pie. 

Julian Station – Features four tasting room experiences (cider, craft beer, mead and wine/chocolate), a delicious taco shop/fruteria, numerous shops and boutiques and live music. This is technically located in nearby Wynola, but it's worth a visit!