15 Most Amazing Things To Do In Gilroy (California)

15 Most Amazing Things To Do In Gilroy (California) – Gilroy is a town in Santa Clara County, California, located south of Morgan Hill and north of San Benito County. Gilroy is the southernmost city in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a population of 56,766 according to the United States Census Bureau’s projections for 2019.

It is notable for its garlic crop and the annual Gilroy Garlic Festival, which features garlicky cuisine like garlic ice cream and has earned the nickname “Garlic Capital of the World.” As part of the Santa Clara Valley AVA, it is also recognized for boutique wine production, with most of the vines being family owned and operated near the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains to the west.

Garlic production in the United States is primarily concentrated around Gilroy, which is why the the city has been labeled the “Garlic Capital of the World.” Parks, hiking trails, and natural areas in Gilroy provide opportunity for a variety of outdoor activities. Gilroy Premium Outlet, South Valley Plaza Retail Center, and Westwood Shopping Center are among the many eateries and shopping centers in the vicinity.

Gilroy has much to offer people of all ages, whether you want to spend your day relaxing in the sun, sipping different wines, or participating in exhilarating adventure activities. If you are a garlic lover, make sure to sample the famous garlic fried ice-cream in the city, and the city is also well recognized for hosting some of the best garlic shops in the country.

The Gilroy Garlic Festival and the Tamal Festival are two of the many festivals and events that take place in Gilroy throughout the year.

Also Read: San Cipriano Travel Adventure: A Paradise Within Your Reach

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Here are 15 Best things to do in Gilroy, California and the surrounding area:

1. Get Outdoor at Coyote Lake, Harvey Bear Ranch County Park

Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park is located just outside of Gilroy in a rural environment. There are around 6,700 acres of natural, open space in the park where you can engage in a variety of outdoor activities.

The big lake, which is a famous fishing and boating spot, is one of the park’s most prominent attractions. Anglers have the opportunity to catch a variety of fish, including black bass, Eurasian carp, and bluegill.

There are nearly 30 kilometers of hiking paths in the park for hikers. And there are great opportunities to see wildlife such as black-tailed deer and wild turkeys. In addition, there are around 200 bird species in the park.

If you wish to spend the night in the park, there are available campsites for use.

2. Spend the Day at Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park

There’s more to Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park than rides and themed activities. This park offers something for everyone of all ages to see and do.

The Gilroy Gardens Railroad and the Quicksilver Express Mine Coaster are among the exhilarating rides in the amusement park. Water slides, pools, and peddle boats are all part of the water play area.

Learning sheds and The Gilroy Gardens, which have several plant varieties and a set of Circus Trees, are also on-site. On-site eateries offer snacks and meals such as burgers, pizza, hot dogs, and healthier options when hunger hits.

3. Learn About Local History at the Gilroy Historical Society

In 1966, the Gilroy Historical Society was founded. The society has a collection of artifacts, pictures, and papers pertaining to Gilroy’s and the surrounding area’s history.

On some days of the month, the Historical Society also organizes walking excursions. You can explore historic neighborhoods on one of these tours.

4. At Kirigin Cellars Winery, Partake in a wine Tasting

Kirigin Cellars Winery is one of California’s oldest wineries. The classic warmth and old-world decor transport you back to the early 1900s.

All the wines are made on-site and can be sampled during one of the winery’s wine tasting events. The 11 grape varieties cultivated include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio, and Malbec.

5. Enjoy A Classic All-American Meal At The Longhouse Restaurant

The Longhouse Restaurant has been making and serving traditional American foods based on historic family recipes with a modern touch since the late 1970s. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all available, and the vast menu offers a wide range of options.

Appetizers, sandwiches, salads, burgers, soups, pasta meals, omelettes, grilled items, seafood dishes, vegetarian options, and entrées like prime rib and New York steak may all be found on the menu.

The Longhouse’s Beehive Sports Bar & Grill serves beer as well as homemade cocktails and martinis. Throughout the year, a variety of activities, including live entertainment and sporting events, take place here.

6. Play Some Golf at Eagle’s Ridge Golf Club

Eagle’s Ridge Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in Silicon Valley, which is located in the foothills in the Monterey Wine Country region and offers a fantastic golf experience.

This 18-hole championship course is set among beautiful scenery and offers a variety of challenges, including rolling hills and multiple lakes.

A driving range, two putting greens, and a practice bunker are all part of the practice complex. There are lessons available. The on-site restaurant and bar offers a wide range of food and beverages, as well as a large wine collection.

7. Limelight Actors Theatre

The Limelight Actors Theater in downtown Gilroy has been presenting world-class performances since its inception in 2011. It was named the best theater in the South Country.

This unusual, cabaret-style theater has held comedy acts, dancing events, musicals, seasonal classics, and dramatic plays, to name a few.

The theater’s intimate layout allows for mingling before and after the event, as well as a nice, relaxed atmosphere during the performance.

The fact that you can bring your meals and drinks is a unique feature of this theater. Many guests buy takeout from the neighboring Milias Restaurant, but some cook dinner at home and bring it to the theater with them.

Also Read: 20 Best Things To Do In Fairhope Al

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8. Relax In Christmas Hill Park

Christmas Hill Park is a 50-acre community green park with plenty of open areas for relaxing. A variety of outdoor activities are available at the on-site leisure facilities.

There are various soccer and softball fields, picnic spaces, hiking, and bike trails to choose from. More athletic facilities and an environmental education center can be found at the neighboring Christmas Hill Park Ranch.

9. Have a Relaxation at Lavender Luxury Day Spa

You’ll get the ultimate relaxation experience at Lavender Luxury Day Spa, which will leave you feeling revived and renewed. Only the finest natural substances are used during treatment sessions, and a variety of treatments and spa packages are available.

Manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, and aromatherapy treatments are just a few of the services available. A variety of pleasant massages are available, including Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone massages.

10. Explore Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve

Even though a big city is only a short drive away, the Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve is a pristine nature area that feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere. The Arrowhead Loop Trail offers great views of the surrounding area.

Many miles into this adventure, you’ll reach a ridge with breathtaking views of several mountain peaks and the Coyote Valley. Hiking, biking, and equestrian riding are all possible on numerous routes. There are also picnic tables and facilities on the premises.

11. Sample Local Craft Beer At Promised Land Brewing Company

Promised Land Brewing Company may be small, but it’s the place to go in downtown Gilroy for wonderful, fresh, local brews.

This brewery has something for everyone, whether you’re hunting for something hoppy, smooth, or fruity.

12. Escape The City At Henry W. Coe State Park

Henry W. Coe State Park, in the Diablo Range, is a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts.

This vast wilderness area is the state’s second-largest park. Coyotes, mountain lions, and gray foxes inhabit its 87,000 acres, which are home to a diverse range of vegetation and animals.

A visitor’s center, a campground, and hiking paths are all available. Several historic structures can also be found on the property.

13. Visit The Morgan Hill Museum

The Morgan Hill Museum has been collecting and displaying things of heritage values to the Morgan Hill area since the early 1970s.

A wide range of items, photographs, and papers are on display in the Museum. The museum organizes a variety of activities throughout the year, including wine tastings and talks.

14. Browse The Morgan Hill Farmers’ Market

If you’re looking for fresh local vegetables and tasty hot meals, the Morgan Hill Farmers‘ Market is the place to go

At this market, over 35 merchants sell baked products, honey, homemade apple cider, and much more.

The kid’s craft area offers a variety of activities, including jewelry making and other artistic endeavors.

15. Sample Fine Wines at Hecker pass Winery

The atmosphere of Hecker Pass Winery is the first feature you’ll notice when you arrive. The serene rural settings make you feel like you’re miles away from any metropolis, even though it’s only a short drive from downtown Gilroy.

You’ll be able to try five different Italian wines during a wine tasting. You’ll also have the opportunity to stroll through the lovely vineyard.

Also Read: 15 Best Things to Do in Settle (Yorkshire, England)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gilroy worth visiting?

Gilroy is a modest, but lovely, up-and-coming tourist resort worth visiting. Some interesting things to do and places to see in this secret vacation will astound you.

While driving to San Francisco or San Jose, you should definitely arrange a few hours here as a side trip.

What is the best time to visit Gilroy?

The weather is pleasant during the middle of the year, with moderately high temperatures. 

Because the summer months are the busiest for tourists in Gilroy, lodging and other accommodations may be more expensive than usual. 

From April to October is the best season to visit Gilroy, California.

Final Thoughts

Gilroy may not be as well-known as other American cities, but don’t be deceived. Gilroy is a modest, but lovely, up-and-coming tourist resort worth visiting. Some of the interesting things to do and places to visit at this hidden destination will astound you.

Gilroy is a city rich in history, cuisine, wine, and culture. A trip to this part of California will take you on a journey that will allow you to discover the outdoors through several hiking trails, spend time watching the sunset while sipping wine at a private vineyard, or visit the famous Gilroy Gardens Theme Park, which is packed with fun activities for the whole family.

If you ever plan to visit Gilroy, bring this list with you to make the most of your time there.

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