In the search for knowledge about California’s missions, did you know that one mission actually features a plaque commemorating “The San Andreas Fault Exhibit & El Camino Real Earthquake Walk”? If you know about it, then you’re probably visiting Mission San Juan Bautista. It is one of our favorite missions that sits on a hill overlooking a valley where a plaque designates the earthquake faultline location.

Other highlights of this mission approx. 15 minutes off the I-101 near Hollister in the city of San Juan Bautista include one of California’s oldest existing town squares, now an historic state park where you can see an old hotel and other pre-20th century buildings.

San Juan Bautista offers a unique experience filled Central Coast charm that includes quaint shops, cafes, and a calm, relaxed atmosphere…very laid back and casual. The San Juan Bautista mission is located on 406 Second Street, San Juan Bautista, CA. Open daily for tours (except major holidays). Charges small fee for touring inside the mission. oldmissionsjb.org

The 15th of 21 missions in Alta, California, the buildings and grounds of Mission San Juan Bautista were dedicated on June 24, 1797.