Planning a family weekend can feel like a juggling act when you want everyone, from toddlers to teens, to have a good time. The good news is that finding things to do in Gilroy with kids doesn’t require hours of research or a long drive. This small California city packs plenty of variety into one area.
Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn knows families want options that fit different ages and energy levels. If you’re looking for a home base, the hotels near Gilroy Gardens put you close to the action. Below, you’ll find a rundown of the best family stops in town.
Splash and Play at Gilroy Gardens
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park is often the first stop families think of, and for good reason. The park blends more than 40 rides and attractions with majestic gardens and the famous hand-grafted Circus Trees. Kids can ride food-themed favorites like the Garlic Twirl or the Strawberry Sundae.
When summer heat rolls in, the Water Oasis play area becomes the coolest spot around. Younger guests can wade in the shallow lagoon, while bigger kids tackle twisty slides. Parents can relax in a rented cabana with complimentary towels and waiter service.
The park also hosts seasonal events, including holiday family fun during the cooler months. It’s easy to see why this spot ranks among the fun places for families visiting Gilroy.
Indoor Fun for Any Weather
Sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate, or the kids just need a break from the sun. That’s when indoor options become a parent’s best friend. These spots keep little ones moving without battling the heat.
A couple of reliable indoor picks for weekend activities for kids in Gilroy include:
- Chuck E. Cheese: This location offers more than 60 arcade games and the Superhero Playground for climbing and bouncing.
- Sky Zone: This indoor trampoline park features open jump courts and space for a game of dodgeball.
Both destinations are climate-controlled year-round, so a hot afternoon or a rainy morning won’t slow anyone down.
Explore Downtown and Local Farms
Downtown Gilroy offers families a slower pace with a creative twist. You can stroll the mural and art trail, where more than 20 painted works decorate the historic district, or bowl a few frames at the newly redesigned Gilroy Bowl.
For a sweet break, stop by Savvy’s, a vintage soda fountain and ice cream parlor. Kids can order a root beer float or a scoop of Marianne’s ice cream.
Local farms round out the list of Gilroy family getaway and entertainment options. You can pick sun-ripened berries at True2Earth Farm or grab fresh corn from a roadside stand. These outings stay budget-friendly and show kids where food comes from.
A Stop for Shoppers
The Gilroy Premium Outlets feature more than 145 stores for families who want to combine shopping with snacks. You can refuel with frozen yogurt or grab a locally made cookie between stops. The California Welcome Center sits nearby with maps and garlic-themed gifts.
These family-friendly attractions in Gilroy, CA, give parents a chance to shop while kids stay entertained with treats. It’s a practical way to check a few errands off the list, too.
Why Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn Is Your Family Headquarters
A weekend full of things to do in Gilroy with kids deserves a comfortable place to recharge each night. Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn offers clean, spacious rooms and amenities like an outdoor heated pool, making it a refreshing family destination after a busy day. Our pet-friendly hotel sits minutes from Gilroy Gardens and the Premium Outlets.
To book accommodations for your weekend of family fun, call Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn at (408) 848-5144.