About Mission San Juan Capistrano
Famous for the Annual Return of the Swallows, Mission San Juan Capistrano is an internationally recognized landmark and tourist destination, proudly welcoming well over 300,000 visitors annually as the premiere historic site in Orange County.
The Mission is a monument to California's multi-cultural history, embracing its Native American, Spanish, Mexican and European heritage. Originally built as a self sufficient community by Spanish Padres and Native Americans, the Mission was a center for agriculture, industry, education and religion.
See a snapshot of California's history through exhibits featuring historic and religious artifacts, precious and rare paintings, and more. Experience the tradition of bell ringing daily honoring the legacy of Saint Junípero Serra, who founded the Mission in 1776. Visit the newly conserved Serra Chapel, California's only chapel still standing where Saint Serra celebrated Mass and where the Eucharist has been celebrated daily.
Enhance your visit with our new multi-language audio tour now offered free with paid admission and available in English, Spanish, French and German. The audio tour mixes music, storytelling and history revealing interesting facts you may not know about the Mission and California history.
Participate in hands-on activities daily in the Mission Clubhouse or join us every weekend for gold panning, adobe brick making and our arrowhead necklace craft.