A Guide to Exploring Gilroy, California

Photo credit: www.travelandleisure.com

Approaching Gilroy, known as the “Garlic Capital of the World,” your senses will instantly draw you in. The unmistakable fragrance of fresh garlic wafts through the air, mingling with the sights of sprawling fields filled with the crop. Fruit stands line the roads, offering everything from freshly picked berries to mouthwatering pies and irresistibly cheap avocados, creating a welcoming atmosphere that invites exploration. Although Gilroy’s identity is tightly woven with garlic, there is much more to discover in this vibrant city.

With a population of nearly 60,000, Gilroy is a hub of garlic production, contributing to over 100 million pounds of garlic each year, which represents approximately half of the nation’s total garlic consumption. The surrounding Central Valley region is responsible for around 25 percent of the U.S. produce. Travel journalist Erika Mailman reminisces about her time in Gilroy, noting, “At first, I mistook the aroma wafting from my neighbor’s window for incredible Italian cooking. After a while, I realized that the true essence of Gilroy is simply garlic.”

Embracing its agricultural roots, Gilroy showcases its signature crop through impressive downtown murals and myriad eateries dedicated to incorporating garlic into their menus. A focal point of the city is Gilroy Gardens, a unique theme park that originally aimed to highlight the beauty of unusual trees and plants. Beyond its botanical allure, the park features delightful attractions, including a whimsical garlic-themed ride that is a testament to its quirky charm.

Gilroy Gardens

Gilroy Gardens offers a distinctive experience, far removed from the conventional theme park filled with roller coasters. The park flourishes with vibrant gardens, serene waterfalls, and extraordinary trees that captivate visitors. Among the park’s attractions are engaging rides inspired by local culture. Family-friendly options like the Strawberry Sundae provide gentle amusement, while thrill-seekers can enjoy rides such as the Quicksilver Express Mine Coaster or the exhilarating Banana Split. The standout attraction, the Garlic Twirl, invites guests to take a spin in giant garlic-shaped bulbs, creating a memorable experience for all ages, complemented by a variety of delightful activities including a water splash area and famously savory garlic fries.

Other Things to Do

Take a hike or horseback ride in Mt. Madonna County Park.

Mailman recommends exploring Mt. Madonna’s exceptional hiking trails, ideal for a day trip that culminates in a slice of homemade pie at Gizdich Ranch, where visitors can savor delicious treats amidst stunning views.

Discover historic downtown Gilroy.

The revitalized heart of Gilroy boasts historic buildings and vibrant murals that narrate the city’s heritage. Antique hunting is a popular pursuit, with well-known stores like Ashford’s Heirlooms and Garbo’s Antiques & Collectibles featuring unique finds. For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Gilroy Museum offers insight into the city’s formation and its garlic legacy.

Embark on the Road to Garlic.

Deeply interwoven into Gilroy’s identity, garlic is celebrated in numerous ways. The city offers the “Road to Garlic,” a curated list of restaurants, farm stands, and specialty food shops where visitors can indulge in garlic-themed dishes, making it a treat for every palate, including desserts.

Savor wines in the Santa Clara Valley.

Nestled within the Santa Clara Valley AVA, Gilroy is home to several vineyards and tasting rooms, such as Cinnabar Winery and L&M Vineyard, with more located just outside city limits. Visitors can consult the Santa Clara wine map for a comprehensive guide to local offerings.

Experience the local bounty.

With a favorable growing season, Gilroy features an abundance of seasonal roadside fruit stands, particularly along major routes like Freeway 101 and State Route 152. Visitors can explore local produce, baked goods, and specialty garlic items, including those found at the Garlic Shoppe or Garlic World, where garlic is transformed into an array of products, from sauces and oils to ice cream.

Where to Stay

CordeValle

Situated just outside Gilroy in San Martin, CordeValle offers a luxury experience for visitors, featuring an 18-hole golf course, gorgeous views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, and a Californian-Italian restaurant, Il Vigneto, renowned for aging its meats on-site.

National Chain Hotels

Affordable accommodations can be found at the Best Western Forest Park Inn, which includes fireplace rooms and a large pool with a hot tub. The Hilton Garden Inn Gilroy features king and double queen rooms, along with amenities like free parking and Wi-Fi. Gilroy’s Hampton Inn & Suites also offers convenient accommodations with microwaves, refrigerators, and complimentary breakfast options.

Dining Options

Garlic City Cafe

Garlic City Cafe serves an array of meals throughout the day, with signature dishes that highlight garlic, including cream of garlic soup, the Garlic City Burger topped with roasted garlic cloves, and the city’s famed garlic ice cream.

Old City Hall Restaurant

Situated in the former city hall building, Old City Hall features a diverse menu with a focus on comfort food enhanced by locally grown garlic. Signature choices include roasted garlic with crostini and garlic-infused chicken dishes.

Tacos Ameca

With a thriving Mexican food scene, Gilroy boasts a taco trail, and Tacos Ameca stands out with its two locations in the city. Known for its delectable grilled meats and fresh tortillas, the restaurant also serves a unique michelada garnished with shrimp.

Getting There

Gilroy is conveniently located less than an hour’s drive from San Jose International Airport (SJX) and approximately 90 minutes from San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Public transportation options include the Caltrain, which services the city during weekday commuting hours. Once in Gilroy, the historic downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, marked by the charming 1918 train station.

Visiting Gilroy is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The unique blend of agricultural roots and proximity to Silicon Valley enables travelers to explore breathtaking mountain scenery and the exquisite Monterey Bay, making it a noteworthy stop for various experiences. “It’s fascinating how you can access the tech hub of Silicon Valley while enjoying the rich agricultural community in Gilroy,” Mailman shared.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com