Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures
Step back in time at Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures, a rustic farm offering hands-on historical crafts, animal encounters, and adventurous fun for th...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Farm tours and special events
Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures
Best Time
Farm tours and special events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures, a rustic farm offering hands-on historical crafts, animal encounters, and adventurous fun for the whole family.
"A fantastic, memorable experience for all ages with engaging activities and a charming, rustic atmosphere."
🎯 Book Your Adventure
Reservations are often required, especially for weekend tours and special events.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring the farm and participating in activities.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 200 reviews
Website
fortcross.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Timey Activities
Various stations throughout the farm
Engage in hands-on historical crafts like candle making and cider pressing, plus fun challenges like archery and axe throwing.
Reptile Encounters
Reptile Show Area
Get up close with fascinating reptiles during interactive shows, a hit with kids and adults alike.
Petting Zoo & Farm Animals
Petting Zoo Area
Meet and feed a variety of friendly farm animals, a delightful experience for younger visitors.
Seasonal Events & Photo Ops
Throughout the farm
Experience themed events like the Autumn Jubilee with hayrides, dancing, and picturesque fall backdrops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Fun
+1Dress for Rustic Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Adventure
Reservations are often required, especially for weekend tours and special events.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring the farm and participating in activities.
📸 Capture the Memories
The rustic farm setting offers many charming spots for photos, especially during seasonal events.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Plan for at least 3 hours to fully enjoy the activities, though you might want to stay longer!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Adventure
Reservations are often required, especially for weekend tours and special events.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring the farm and participating in activities.
📸 Capture the Memories
The rustic farm setting offers many charming spots for photos, especially during seasonal events.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Plan for at least 3 hours to fully enjoy the activities, though you might want to stay longer!
🍎 Pair with Local Treats
Visit nearby California Mountain Bakery for award-winning apple pie after your farm adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures for its engaging, hands-on activities and friendly staff, making it a memorable experience for all ages. The farm's rustic charm and seasonal events, like the Autumn Jubilee, are highlights, though some wish they had more time to explore everything offered. +3
"We had the absolute best time at Fort Cross with Farmer Ben and his wife as guides. My kids are 13, 11, and 6, and they were entertained by all the fantastically somewhat dangerous activities (paintball slingshots, archery, and ax throwing) and completely in love with all the reptiles and fuzzy creatures. We went a week ago and they have asked multiple times since then to return. Thank you for making our trip so special. We'll be back soon! :)"
Sara Mason
"Great idea lace to go for “ kids” of any age! There is plenty to see and do - I bought the autumn package w hayride and crafts there is also adventure for the slingshot/archery/hatchet throw- Plan to spend 3 hrs there but could have stayed longer had a blast with the scavenger hunt!! Met Doreen, Noelani and Annie all very nice! I highly recommend this for fall- I will be back next year!!! We had planned apple picking nearby so could not spend the time we would have liked 🤷🏻♀️"
Lizis Liz
"Rustic farm with a variety of old time activities.
Our fall festival started with a group dancing. We experienced hayride, candle making, pumping painting, reptile show, petting zoo, etc.
This was a fun filled half day for both kids and grown-ups."
Dongjing He
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures is located in Santa Ysabel, about an hour's drive from San Diego. Take CA-78 E towards Julian. It's a scenic drive, and the farm is just before you reach the town of Julian.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available at Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures for visitors.
It's highly recommended to make reservations, especially for weekend visits and special events, as they often sell out. Check their website for current booking requirements.
While some local Julian businesses are dog-friendly, it's best to check Fort Cross's specific policy regarding pets before your visit.
The most direct route from San Diego is typically via CA-78 E. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Julian area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary depending on the season and special events. Many activities are included with the general admission fee, which is around $25.
General admission often includes access to a variety of old-time activities, a petting zoo, and sometimes reptile shows. Some premium activities might have an additional cost.
Fort Cross offers various packages, such as the Autumn Jubilee package which includes a hayride and crafts. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions.
Operating hours vary by season and day. It's essential to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours and event schedules.
While it might be possible, it's strongly advised to book tickets in advance online to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can experience candle making, cider pressing, archery, axe throwing, slingshots, and participate in group dancing and scavenger hunts. +1
Yes, Fort Cross features a petting zoo with various farm animals and also hosts interactive reptile shows. +1
Absolutely! Fort Cross is very family-friendly, with activities that entertain children of all ages, from toddlers to teens.
Fort Cross hosts popular seasonal events like the Autumn Jubilee, featuring hayrides, crafts, and festive decorations, as well as holiday-themed events. +1
Most visitors find that 3 hours is a good amount of time, but many wish they could stay longer to fully enjoy all the offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the rustic homestead setting, seasonal decorations, and animal encounters provide numerous charming photo opportunities.
Look for picturesque backdrops during seasonal events like the Autumn Jubilee, or capture candid moments with the animals and during craft activities.
Generally, yes, but be mindful of the performers and other guests. The reptile shows are a great chance for unique shots.
Golden hour light can be beautiful, but the farm offers great photo ops throughout the day. Seasonal events often have dedicated decorative elements.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a lens that can handle both wider shots of the farm and closer details of animals or crafts.
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