Pie, cider and a little time wandering Main Street. Julian was on my fall list for exactly that kind of day, with apple treats and a mountain-town change of scenery from San Diego.
One update before you go: Volcan Valley Apple Farm ended its 2026 U-pick season on October 17 and says it is closed until next season. For a late-October visit, make this a pie-and-cider day rather than an apple-picking trip.
Take your time on Main Street
Julian Cider Mill was one of the stops in my fall post for apple cider, caramel apples and preserves. It is at 2103 Main Street, on the corner of B and Main, and the shop says it is open seven days a week.
It is an easy place to pick up something for later while you wander through town. You can keep the afternoon loose, browse a few shops and leave plenty of room for the pie decision.
Julian Pie Company and Mom’s Pie House were both on my original list. Julian Pie Company’s town location is at 2225 Main Street and lists daily hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mom’s is at 2119 Main Street, with another location in Wynola at 4510 Highway 78.
Choose a slice for now or a whole pie to take home. There is no need to turn it into a mission to try every stop in one day.
Add a little Gold Rush history
If you want something between the food stops, Julian has its gold-mining history to explore, too. Eagle Mining Co. offers guided underground mine tours lasting about an hour. Its posted hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with no reservation needed.
Julian Mining Company is a separate business at 4444 Highway 78, with gold and gem panning. It lists weekend hours, so that option fits a Saturday or Sunday visit. Check the opening time directly before heading over.
Pick whichever sounds more fun to your group and check the day’s schedule before leaving. Main Street, something apple-flavored and one extra stop is plenty for a relaxed fall day. Apple picking can wait for next year’s crop.
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