Founded in 1776, this restored mission offers a glimpse into Spanish colonial history and its influence on the area’s culture. Roam the ten-acre site guided by a digital podcast that tells the stories behind colorful gardens, preserved statues and exhibits that detail how the original inhabitants lived. Don’t forget to see Serra’s Chapel, the oldest building in California still in use today. Mission Events: Living History Day: Mission San Juan Capistrano’s Living History Society members dress in period attire to portray important figures in the Mission’s history. Occurs every second Saturday of each month.