The historic structures and gardens make an easy day trip by train from San Diego, Santa Barbara or any place in between. Its Serra Chapel is the only church in California where Serra is known to have celebrated Mass. And the nonprofit organization that runs the mission is still trying to lure those swallows back. Where: 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, Orange County, 63 miles southeast of downtown L.A.How much: Adult general admission, $9; children (ages 4-11), $6. Info: Mission San Juan Capistrano

Source: Los Angeles Times January 28, 2017 14:03 UTC