Attractions in Gilroy, CA
Things to Do and See in Gilroy, CA
Take a Drive
On Highway 152, Gilroy connects California’s Central Valley and Yosemite to the Pacific Ocean. Gilroy also serves as the northern gateway to California’s Central Coast along Highway 101, the original El Camino Real. Highway 152 is the scenic by-way that leads into Gilroy. To the east, you will see the huge expanse of the Los Banos Reservoir having passed by Casa de Fruta Orchard Resort in the Pacheco Valley. To the west of Gilroy, Hecker Pass passes by family-owned wineries, the home of Gilroy Gardens, Spring Lake, and on up to Mt. Madonna where you can see out toward the Pacific Ocean and Highway 1.
Goldsmith Seeds
Goldsmith Seeds world-renowned horticultural attraction is a “must see” when in the Gilroy area. Goldsmith Seeds is one of the largest wholesale breeders of hybrid flower seed in the world – developing and producing flower seeds for seed companies and growers internationally. Still family-owned and operated, it was founded in 1962 by renowned plant breeder Glenn Goldsmith. Award winning varieties include “Accent” impatiens, “Orbit” geraniums, and “Peter Pan” zinnias.
Though Goldsmith Seeds is strictly wholesale and does not sell seeds or plants directly to the public, you may purchase seeds through mail-order seed companies or at garden centers throughout the world. This six-acre field of beauty located on the scenic Hecker Pass Highway beckons you to walk among thousands of experimental flowers (many not found any place else in the world). Don’t miss the raised viewing platform as a perfect picture-taking spot. Free group tours (10-45 people) are available by appointment. The gardens are open for viewing dawn to dusk seven days a week. A viewing tour is also available.
Chitactac Adams Park
The Uvas Creek/Little Arthur Creek area was the site of the Ohlone Indian villages for thousands of years prior to the arrival of the Spanish missionaries. This beautiful and culturally significant four-acre park site is located just minutes outside Gilroy. Reached by taking Highway 152 West and turning right on Watsonville Road, the park is open year round from 8:00 a.m. until sunset. No fees are collected. Take a self-guided interpretive walk around the site during which you will find eight stations and panels of Adams School and Ohlone Village life along with the natural history of Uvas Creek.
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
One of Gilroy’s finest jewels is Gilroy Gardens Theme Park, California’s only horticultural theme park. The park was designed for families with young children and garden lovers. Its 75 acres feature 19 rides, 27 attractions, majestic gardens, and the world famous Circus Trees. Attractions are designed to educate guests and foster a great appreciation of our world of nature. The nineteen Circus Trees are one-of-a-kind and most are more than 50 years old. Bent and woven into unique shapes such as “The Basket Tree” and “Double Spectacle” – you have got to see them to believe them! Schedule a full day to enjoy beautiful gardens, rides, delicious food – or just take a book and read in Claudia’s Garden.
Renaissance Pleasure Faire and Artisans Market
In the fall, enjoy over a thousand entertainers, craft booths and food purveyors in the scenic foothills surrounding Casa de Fruta Orchard Resort. Experience wine tasking, games of skill, and artisan demonstrations throughout the day. Enjoy taste-tempting treats while watching live entertainment at stages throughout the Faire. Enter the Elizabethan era along with costumed guests and performers alike re-enacting a time long past – yet still revered.
Casa de Fruta Orchard Resort
Casa de Fruta Orchard Resort has been welcoming travelers since 1908 to experience the agricultural abundance of the southern Santa Clara Valley. You can select fresh off-the-farm fruits and vegetables, sample wines, or shop for specialty gifts in these decorative, well-appointed shops and stores. Kids can ride the Casa de Choo Choo through the scenic sites of the resort, or make a buddy or two with the adorable animals at Casa de Zoo. There is also a 24-hour coffee shop and areas for recreational vehicles. Casa de Fruta has special events scheduled every month of the year and is the perfect site for family fun and relaxation.
Gilroy Garlic Festival
The Gilroy Garlic Festival celebrates the agricultural heritage of Santa Clara Valley centered around the culinary experience of garlic. Every year on the last full weekend in July, guests are treated to a one-of-a-kind experience featuring gourmet food, live entertainment, exquisite arts and crafts, and lots of fun family activities – all set in the lush foothills of California’s Santa Clara Valley. Since 1972, over 2 million honored guests have made the pilgrimage to the Gilroy Garlic Festival for 28 years of garlic fun.
Regional Attractions
Regional Parks
Within a 15-minute drive are two of the finest parks in the region: Mt. Madonna County Park and Henry Coe State Park. Both offer thousands of acres of natural beauty and areas for hiking, picnics, horseback riding, and more.
Santa Cruz
Experience 29 miles of warm, sandy beaches in Santa Cruz County, one of California’s most popular seaside playgrounds. The Santa Cruz Boardwalk has been in existence since 1907, and both its carousel and roller coaster are National Historic Landmarks. Continue along the coast towards Watsonville and miles of walking beaches from Moss Landing to Pajaro Dunes provide hours of relaxation and beauty.
Monterey Bay
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located in the heart of historic Cannery Row. The exhibits uncover the hidden wonder of the undersea world off Monterey’s coast; a submarine canyon that rivals the Grand Canyon is size and is the heart of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
The Culinary Arts Center of Monterey
The Culinary Arts Center of Monterey offers hands-on classes for the creation of delectable dishes taught by award-winning chefs. Available for individual classes, corporate retreats, or team-building opportunities. The Center is also a State of California Certified Culinary Vocational School.
Children’s Discovery Museum
Over 150 hands-on exhibits provide hours of educational fun for children. The innovative programs incorporate science, art, humanities, and more for an enriching learning experience.
Steinbeck Center
A short drive down Highway 101 to Salinas is the National Steinbeck Center. The permanent exhibit area offers a journey that explores the life and works of John Steinbeck. His colorful stories are brought to life through interactive exhibits, movies, and events.
Wings of History – Air Museum
Vintage aircraft, such as an exact replica of the Wright Flyer, models, and engines are on display at this museum located in San Martin, just 10 minutes north of Gilroy.
