Horticultural Delight: Gilroy Gardens, California

A Whimsical Escape

Gilroy Gardens in California’s garlic capital was a quirky find that sparked joy for us, Marco and Eleni. This horticultural theme park, with its circus trees and family-friendly rides, was a refreshing change from mega-parks. Marco, the planner, chose it for its unique charm, while Eleni, the storyteller, was ready to photograph the whimsical landscapes and share its story.

Exploring the Gardens

The park’s centerpiece is its 24 circus trees, sculpted into fantastical shapes by Axel Erlandson in the 1920s. We marveled at the Basket Tree, its woven branches a work of art. Eleni’s camera was busy, capturing the trees’ surreal forms against vibrant flowerbeds. Marco geeked out over the horticultural history, noting how the trees were grafted to create living sculptures. The park’s lush grounds, with rose gardens and koi ponds, felt like a secret oasis.

Family-Friendly Fun

Gilroy Gardens is designed for all ages, and we embraced our inner kids. We rode the Garlic Twirl, a spinning ride that left us giggling, and the Quicksilver Express, a gentle roller coaster through redwoods. Eleni won a stuffed garlic bulb at a ring-toss game, proudly displaying her prize. We cooled off at the Water Oasis, splashing in the fountains—a perfect break on a warm day.

Tastes and Trails

Lunch at the park’s café featured local flavors—Eleni savored a garlic-infused burger, while I enjoyed a veggie wrap with fresh avocado. Afterward, we explored the Monarch Garden, a greenhouse with butterflies and tropical plants. Marco mapped a route to nearby Gilroy’s downtown, where we sampled garlic ice cream—a daring treat that was surprisingly tasty. Eleni’s photos of the park’s vintage carousel were pure nostalgia.

Why We Loved It

Gilroy Gardens was a delightful detour, blending horticultural wonder with playful fun. Its quirky charm and serene beauty made it a perfect stop for our curious hearts. It’s a must for families and dreamers seeking a unique adventure.

• Tip: Visit in spring for blooming gardens.
• Don’t Miss: The circus trees for a surreal experience.