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Photo: via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Open from mid-spring to mid-fall. A theme park whose theme is plants, agriculture, and local history. Best for people interested in gardens, and for families with younger children. Like Legoland, the rides here do not cater to teenagers or older. Parking is $20 in advance ($25 at the gate). Get an annual membership if you will go more than once, and consider a premium pass for yourself if you'll be buying food for multiple guests.
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, often shortened to Gilroy Gardens, is a horticulture-themed amusement park located in Gilroy, California, United States. Designed and built by Michael Bonfante, the park originally opened as Bonfante Gardens in 2001. The 536-acre theme park (217 ha) is owned by the city of Gilroy and operated by Gilroy Gardens, Inc. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; it features over 40 rides and attractions and is known for its Circus Trees, created by Axel Erlandson.
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An interesting little park where the Ohlone people lived for several thousand years. Follow the trail to learn more about the history. It's not a destination by itself, but it's worth a stop when you're in the area. Restrooms, drinking water, a few picnic tables.
Large, long city park connecting to the Debell Uvas Creek Preserve in the north, which is a good place to see wildflowers on spring mornings. The creek runs along the east side of the park. Miller Avenue cuts through the park. Playground (on the southeast side of Miller Avenue), picnic tables, jogging trail, soccer field, baseball and softball diamonds. Lots of trees, but there is room for flying a kite when there's a breeze. Bicycles on trails. Dogs welcome, but if you want a dog park, then the Glen Loma Ranch Dog Park is less than a mile south on Miller Avenue. Restrooms.
RV and tent camping. Flat, paved two-mile loop trail at Bear Ranch Trailhead in San Martin is good for people with mobility issues, families with little kids, and anyone looking for a pleasant walk. More strenuous hiking opportunities are also available. Fishing and summertime boating, at least in non-drought years. Good for bird watchers. Drinking water, restrooms, hot showers.