If you grew up in California, you might still remember scrambling to complete those mission projects back in 4th grade. Sugar cubes, popsicle sticks and anything available at home were used to assemble miniature replicas of the Spanish missions built across California in the 1800s. Although most of our handcrafted structures have likely fallen into disrepair over the years, the 21 missions of Alta California have been restored and are open to visitors. One of these missions is Mission San Juan Capistrano, which is about a 30 mile drive from the Alamo Inn and Suites.
The drive may not be terrible, especially if you plan to explore other locations south of Orange County, but we've found the Metrolink to be one neat alternative to explore California history – little ones usually enjoy hoping aboard the train and the adults get a breather from traffic. The Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) would be the main stop for the Anaheim Resort District, and this Metrolink station is a quick 10-15 minute drive east from the Alamo Inn and Suites. If that got your attention, look up the Orange County Line and see what possibilities unfold for you – a few clicks on the Metrolink schedules should show that a ride between Anaheim and San Juan Capistrano takes about 40 minutes. Be sure to note that there are only a few departure times between the 2 stops each day and weekday/weekend routes may differ. To stay on the safe side, plan to arrive early to find parking, purchase tickets, and figure out where to board as it will be several hours before the next train.
Another world awaits once you step off at San Juan Capistrano. A 5 minute walk from the Metrolink stop, Mission San Juan Capistrano offers a historical experience infused with Native American, Spanish, Mexican, European and American heritage. Not to be outdone, the Los Rios Historic District – apparently the oldest neighborhood in California – lies on the other side of the train tracks. The Ramos House Café is a cute spot for brunch in this notable region and offers good service in a rustic-cozy patio setting, covered with beautiful plants. Grab a southern fried chicken salad and watch the trains whiz by to slow down your clock. When the little ones begin to holler, the River Street Ranch is the ace up your sleeve – the styling guinea pigs should be able to bring back those smiles! If you have time to spare before your return train, there's more to take in at the River Street Marketplace, an entirely new development juxtaposing modernity with a bygone era.
Local Tidbit: If you've had a positive Metrolink experience, consider exploring San Clemente Pier. The Orange County Line only stops here on the weekends, providing much needed sanctuary from the daily grind. Line up for a magical cup of caffeine at Bear Coast Coffee and take in the ocean breeze at the meandering beach across the tracks.