Gilroy travel guide

Gilroy is the southmost city in Santa Clara County, California, USA. According to the United States 2000 Census, the city population was 41,464. The California Department of Finance estimates that the population had grown to 49,649 as of January 1, 2007, making it the 173th largest city in the state. Gilroy is well known for its garlic crop; the Gilroy Garlic Festival which occurs annually, featuring various garlicky foods including garlic ice cream. Gilroy also produces mushrooms in considerable quantity.
Approximately eight miles northeast of Gilroy, via Gilroy Hot Springs Road, lies the famous Victorian resort Gilroy Yamato Hot Springs, a California Historical Landmark. Gilroy also is home to the Gilroy Premium Outlets, a gigantic shopping mall consisting entirely of outlet stores. Well known Gilroy residents include Jeff Garcia, Paul Lacoste, and influential garlic farmer Don Christopher.
Long-time local landmarks include Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, formerly Treehaven, Hecker Pass...A Family Adventure, (a venue for corporate picnics and birthday parties). The park is located along SR152 west of town. Past Gilroy Gardens on SR152 about 12 driving miles west of town is Mount Madonna County Park. Another large presence is the Gilroy Foods plant at Cattle, garlic, and strawberries, occupy acres toward Hollister and San Martin. Several proposals to improve eastbound SR156 and SR152 are stalled because of funding concerns. (...) more....