7 Reasons Why Gilroy Is A Great Place To Live



You may know Gilroy as the ‘Garlic Capital of The World’, but it is so much more than that. It’s vibrant culture and breathtaking sceneries are just a few of the things that make Gilroy a wonderful place to live.

Gilroy’s extensive eateries and shopping options will make your day. Part of South Santa Clara Valley, which was previously acres of vineyards, Gilroy keeps its wine culture close to heart. The fun does not stop there – there also also many parks and reservoirs in the city for a perfect day spent outdoors.

The city has many more treasures. Let’s uncover them one by one:


#1: The Garlic Culture

No better start than this for an introduction to this city. Garlic is not merely an edible bulb here, but a part of the culture and livelihood of many. From restaurants to garlic shops to garlic rides – it all celebrates their special spice. The biggest and most well known celebration is the annual Gilroy Garlic Festival.

About 100,000 people visit this event in a city whose total population is closer to 50,000. This three-day-long festivity has something for everyone.

Car shows, live music, and cooking competitions like the Great Garlic cook-off and the Garlic Showdown are sure to entertain you. The highlight of the show is Gourmet Alley. Here ‘Pyro Cooks’ show off their skills while preparing sizzling Garlic Scampi and Calamari. This isn’t just any demonstration, they actually flame up their giant skillets, and it is a performance to watch.

Although there is much more to the Garlic Festival, we will leave the rest to you to experience in person. When you do go, make sure to try the garlic ice cream!


#2: Restaurants

As a city that takes pride in its food, it has many eateries. And yes, you assumed right, many restaurants, like the Garlic City Café, do use garlic as their central spice. But, other than garlic, you can also go on a taco trail with places like Carnitas Michoacan and Cielito Lindo, among many others.

OD’s Kitchen has some old family recipes and is now being managed by the second generation of the family. It is a breakfast-favorite among the residents here.

Fancy some craft beer? Head towards Promised Land Brewing Company. If you are more of a wine-person, then Bella Viva Ristorante is the place for you.


#3: Time For Shopping

Love shopping? The Gilroy Premium Outlets won’t disappoint you. In fact, it is one of the Nothern California’s largest outlet centers. The outlet brings you the latest fashion with lucrative discounts of 25-65% on the most popular premium brands.

The Gilroy Premium Outlets boasts of 145 factory outlets, boutiques, shops, and multiple restuarants.

Located at 681 Leavesley Road, Gilroy - it is open 7 days a week.


#4: Follow the Wine Trail

The growth of Silicon Valley has changed the identity of this area from the age-old farming and vineyards to a modernized technology based city. But not all is lost - more than 34 families and small businesses continue their winery traditions and are proud of their tasting rooms.

A quick visit to these wineries will help you understand why Native Americans called it ‘The Valley of The Heart’s Delight.’ The wines of these family-owned wineries are some of the best-kept secrets of California.

Follow the wine trail map and spend as many days as you want, relaxing in the vineyards and having lunches paired with exclusive wine. A mere $75 pass will give you access to all the tasting rooms for a full year.

#5: Outdoor Activity Opportunities

Love having fun under the Sun? Gilroy is full of parks and reserves which can cater to all your outdoor activity needs. Whether you are a camping enthusiast, hiker, horse-rider, bird-watcher, runner, or anything else, you can easily follow your desires in this town town.

Immerse in the tranquillity and feel one with nature. Go horseback riding or hiking at Mt. Madonna County Park, which is home to the tall redwood trees, or go camping, fishing, and boating at the Henry W. Coe State Park. You can also turn a few pages of the history of Ohlone Indians in the Chictactac-Adams Heritage County Park while you enjoy a short hike.

Golf is another popular activity in the area, and there are many course options including: Gilroy Golf Course , the premier Eagle Ridge Golf Club, or the state-of-art Rosewood CordeValle Golf Club.


#6: What To Do in Gilroy

Gilroy Gardens, a nature inspired amusement park, is the perfect family outing. The Circus Trees found here are now the identity of the park. These living sculptures were grafted and shaped in the 1920s. After hours of fun rides, its time for a splash. The Water Oasis inside Gilroy Gardens is fun-packed for both children and adults. You can also meet mascots Gil and his sister Royelle here in the park.

Exploring downtown is another great way to explore Gilroy. The many antique shops and Gilroy Historic Paseo are worth a visit. If you are up for it, take a walking tour and get to know the local culture of the town.


#7: Education

The town also has a robust education structure with many newer K-12 public schools and also private school options. Some of the newest public shools include Las Animas Elementary, Solorsano Middle School, Christopher High School, and the top rated Gilroy Early College Academy. Gilroy is also home to Gavilan Community College. The education system in Gilroy is excellent and dependable.


Conclusion

Gilroy has a peaceful but still lively small-town vibe. With so much to do, from festivals to exploring the outdoors to experiencing the unique food culture, there won’t be a dull moment. If you are considering buying or selling a home in Gilroy, California contact Derek and Deonna Essary with Condo to Castle Properties.

With over 30+ years of local experience we can walk you through the process of buying or selling a Gilroy home and make it easy for you! Call us at 408-963-1295