Things to do in Gilroy, CA: Weekend Itinerary

When it comes to Gilroy, the first thing that comes to most peoples’ minds is the Gilroy Garlic Festival and the outlet mall. However, there are quite a bit of activities and spots to check out in Gilroy that’s perfect for for couples, families, or even a solo adventure. Keep reading to learn more about my favorite things to do in Gilroy, CA!

Thank you to the Visit Gilroy Tourism Board for partnering with us on this project.

Where to stay in Gilroy:

If you’re planning a trip to Gilroy, there are many hotel options to choose from. One great option is the Hilton Garden Inn because it is close to the US-101 freeway, Downtown, and wineries. The rooms are spacious and are equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, free TV and Wifi, and free coffee with a Keurig. Did I also mention there’s free parking and affordable continental breakfast? This place was a steal.

Location: 6070 Monterey Rd.
Pro tip: Take advantage of the free bottled water and the $7 continental breakfast offered in the lobby.

Gilroy Gardens

Gilroy Gardens is a garden-themed park that’s perfect for family-fun activities. The entire park is covered with gardens, exotic plants, trees, waterfalls, and also has rides, shows, and water parks. It is home to the famous Circus Trees, created by Axel Enderson.

Location: 3050 Hecker Pass Hwy.
Pro tip: Get to the park early to snag pictures in front of the circus trees and and in various gardens around the park before the crowds show up.

Lunch at Old City Hall

If you’re looking for a unique place to have a meal, Old City Hall is the perfect place. It’s a 20th-century historical building converted into a restaurant. This building used to serve as the mayor’s office, courthouse, and jail back in 1905. Now it’s an all-day service restaurant with a bar.

Location: 7400 Monterey St.

Brunch at The Milias Restaurant

If Sunday brunch is the most important meal of the day for you, do not miss out on brunch at The Milias Restaurant. They have a different menu every day, have brunch specials, and offer $3 Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s. I had their BLT eggs benedict and it was perfection.

Location: 7397 Monterey St.

Things to do in Gilroy: Wine tasting at Fernwood Cellars

To my surprise, there were many wineries located in Gilroy. If you were to pick only a handful of wineries to visit during your stay, Fernwood Cellars should be on your list. This winery is tucked away in a pocket of the redwoods and has plenty of seating options with tables and chairs, gazebos, and cocktail tables.

The property is owned by winemaker Matt Oetinger and his family for 6 generations. They only make their wines in small batches, and each wine is crafted with extreme care and detail. Although the winery is quite simple, the atmosphere is intimate and unique in its own way. The staff was also very welcoming and make you feel like family. I highly recommend spending an afternoon either by yourself or with a small party.

Location: 7137 Redwood Retreat Rd.
Price: $20 per person for a flight of 5 wines for wine tasting
Pro tip: The winery doesn’t serve food or snacks, so make sure to pack some snacks or a picnic while wine tasting. Also, make sure to book a reservation so to make sure you have a good seat.

Feed animals at the Gilroy Ostrich Farm

The Gilroy Ostrich Farm is one of the most unique experiences in Gilroy. It is a 117-acre farm that has a variety of animals such as ostriches, emus, llamas, pigs, and goats. You can also pay extra to feed the animals alfalfa and pellets. Some animals will also let you pet them. It is super easy to spend an entire day at the farm, so bring lots of water and snacks.

Location: 5660 Pacheco Pass Hwy
Price: $14-$16 general admission
Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. The farm can be dusty or muddy during colder weather.

Hang out in Downtown Gilroy

Downtown Gilroy is lined with small business, restaurants, antique shops, and boutiques. There are also plenty of giant murals that make cute backgrounds for photos, and the Gilroy Historic Paseo where you can learn more about Gilroy’s history and how it became the garlic capital of the world.