The City of Murrieta’s motto is “Gem of the Valley”, and Old Town Murrieta lives up to that badge of honor. Just a few blocks in length, it has all the charm and none of the crowds (on most days). Old Town Murrieta provides for great food, quant little shops, walkability, and easy access and parking. Of all the old towns in SoCal, this one’s a favorite of mine because it has a genuine small town urban feel to it. Absent is the old town turned over-commercialized and over-visited that so many have become.
The walk along Washington Avenue is a mix of vintage structures and newer yet attractive buildings. Covered in an abundance of trees, the walk is mostly along shade covered sidewalks. Plenty of room for dogs, bikes, and strollers makes the walk easy and enjoyable. Old Town, Washington Avenue, is also part of Historic Route 395. Some of us remember taking Route 395 between San Bernardino and San Diego before all the freeways were in place!
Old Town is adorned with a number of antique shops, boutiques, old style country markets, cafes, restaurants, and an occasional saloon. Mixed with the old, you will also find the customary array of small businesses and shops. Need directions or a quick history lesson, be sure to catch the local old timers club found most days just outside the Vista Doughnut Shop at Washington Avenue and Juniper Street.
Murrieta gets its name from brothers Juan and Ezequiel Murrieta, who purchased 52,000 acres of ranch land for $52,000 back in 1873. In 1887 a train depot was constructed which led to the discovery by the masses who traveled along the California Southern Railroad transcontinental route. Growing and prospering, the City incorporated in 1991.
Don’t miss Town Square one block to the north of Old Town. There you will find Murrieta’s civic center complex and Town Square Park. Prominently centered in the park you will find memorials to our military as well as September 11th. Beautifully and honorably done, they stand out as two of the most fitting memorials I have visited. Awe inspiring for sure.
The other don’t miss is the abandoned KEA Mill Tower, two blocks west of old town between Kalmia Street and B Street. The Mill was used for grain production back in the day, and closed in the latter 1900’s. Legend has it that a ghostly teen age girl in a blue dress is the caretaker of the old Mill and can be seen from time to time. For me, I have never seen the apparition. Admittedly, I’m a bit happy about that!
My favorite restaurant is the Down Town Public House. The Down Town Public House offers a casual atmosphere that is built for socializing and offers a complete gastropub style menu. You won’t go hungry here (or thirsty).
If you are looking for something more down-home, it doesn’t get better than Calhoun’s Family Texas Barbeque. Calhoun’s is a family owned restaurant that is a staple for bbq lovers. Calhoun’s definitely lives up to their mantra “The portions are big and our prices are sweeter than our famous sweet potato pie”! Note, Calhoun’s is primarily a take out restaurant.
Another favorite of mine, and the local go-to place for pasta, pizza, and paninis is The Mill. Serving authentic and delicious food since 1996, you won’t leave here hungry or with a disappointed palate. Come hungry to this chow hall!
My favorite place for coffee is The Press Espresso. I don’ do foo foo coffee, but they have caffeine that will meet any professional coffee drinker’s palate! If you’re feeling a little sugar depleted, you can add in a tasty treat from The Crafted Scone, which is just across the street.
Old Town Access is easily made from the Interstate 15. Old Town Murrieta is largely situated along Washington Avenue between Kalmia Street and Ivy Street. Take the California Oaks exit and head west. California Oaks turns in Kalmia Street. Follow Kalmia west for 1.5 miles to Washington Avenue. Turn left on Washington Avenue and you will find an abundance of parking and plenty of fun! Access can also be made from Ivy Street. From westbound Ivy Street, turn right on to Washington Avenue.
