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Full Itinerary
Extras
9:00 AM: Depart from San Jose
Travel Method: Private Vehicle
Route: Take route CA-17 S to reach Los Gatos
Travel Time: 15 to 20 minutes
What to Expect: A quick, scenic drive through the rolling hills of the Santa Clara Valley.
9:30 AM: Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company
Location: 25 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos
Overview: Start your day at The Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company, a local favorite for fresh coffee, pastries, and breakfast options. Grab a warm drink and enjoy the quaint atmosphere of this local café. Check out their menu here!
Cost: $5–$10.
Time Duration: 30-minutes
Pro Tip: Try their signature coffee blends or a breakfast sandwich.
10:00 AM: Stroll Through Downtown Los Gatos
Location: Downtown Los Gatos, Santa Cruz Ave
Overview: Spend the next hour exploring the picturesque Downtown Los Gatos area. Walk along the tree-lined streets, browse boutique shops, and explore the charming historic buildings. Don’t miss the Los Gatos Town Plaza Park, a lovely green space perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Cost: Free.
Time Duration: 1 hour
Tip: If you are in the mood for shopping, the area has a variety of upscale stores and local artisan boutiques.
11:00 AM: Vasona Lake County Park
Location: 333 Blossom Hill Rd, Los Gatos, CA
Overview: Vasona Lake County Park is a beautiful park offering hiking trails, a scenic lake, and plenty of space for picnics. The park features lush green spaces, hiking and biking trails, and beautiful views, making it an ideal location for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
List of Activities:
- Boating: Rent a pedal boat, kayak, or rowboat to explore the lake.
- Hiking and Biking: Trails around the park offer opportunities for both hiking and cycling, including access to the Los Gatos Creek Trail.
- Picnicking: Plenty of picnic areas with tables, BBQ grills, and open spaces for a relaxing lunch.
- Wildlife Watching: The park is home to various birds and wildlife, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Scenic Walks: Enjoy leisurely walks around the lake and through the surrounding wooded areas.
Cost: Free; Parking at the park may require a fee.
Time Duration: 2 hours
Tip: Bring a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy by the lake after your hike. The park also has boat rentals if you’d like to paddle around the lake.
1:00 PM: Lunch at the Los Gatos Cafe
Location: 15 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, CA
Overview: Los Gatos Café is a charming, cozy spot located in the heart of downtown Los Gatos. This popular local eatery offers a menu filled with classic American breakfast and brunch options, along with delicious coffee drinks. Tap here! to check their menu.
Recommended Dishes: Eggs Benedict, Pancakes, and Vegetarian Scramble
Cost: $10 to $18
Time Duration: 1 hour
Pro Tip: The outdoor seating is a great option if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather while you dine.
2:00 PM: Wine Tasting at Testarossa Winery
Location: 300 Auzerais Ave, Los Gatos, CA.
Overview: Visit Testarossa Winery, one of the top wineries in the area, for a wine tasting. You can enjoy a variety of local wines while learning about the winemaking process. The winery is known for its beautiful views and historic tasting room.
Cost: Wine tasting fees typically range from $25–$45 per person, depending on the selection.
Time Duration: 1 hour
Pro Tip: Make a reservation ahead of time if possible, especially on weekends.
4:00 PM: Explore the Los Gatos Creek Trail
Location: Los Gatos
Overview: Los Gatos Creek is a creek that runs through the Santa Clara Valley in California, flowing from the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains to the southern parts of San Jose. After lunch and wine tasting, take a leisurely walk along the Los Gatos Creek Trail. The trail follows the creek through Los Gatos and offers a peaceful setting to unwind. It is a flat, easy walk that provides a great opportunity to soak in the beauty of the area.
Cost: Free to explore
Time Duration: 2 hours
Pro Tip: The trail is about 16 km long, but you can choose to walk a shorter portion depending on your time.
6:00 PM: Visit the History Museum of Los Gatos
Location: 75 Church St, Los Gatos, CA
Overview: Learn more about the history of the town by visiting the History Museum of Los Gatos. This small museum offers exhibits on local history, art, and culture, housed in a historic building.
Cost: Suggested donation of $5.
Time Duration: 1 hour
Pro Tip: Check the museum’s website or call ahead for any special events or exhibits that might be taking place.
7:00 PM: Head Back to San Jose
Travel Method: Private car
Route: CA-17 N
Time Duration: Around 15 to 20 minutes
What to Expect: Enjoy the quick drive back to San Jose, reflecting on your relaxing day in the beautiful town of Los Gatos.
Trip Summary
9:00 AM: Depart from San Jose
9:30 AM: Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company
10:00 AM: Stroll Through Downtown Los Gatos
11:00 AM: Vasona Lake County Park
1:00 PM: Lunch at the Los Gatos Cafe
2:00 PM: Wine Tasting at Testarossa Winery
4:00 PM: Explore the Los Gatos Creek Trail
6:00 PM: Visit the History Museum of Los Gatos
7:00 PM: Head Back to San Jose
Packing Checklist
Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, camera, and a jacket as the weather can change quickly.
Optional: Picnic blanket, binoculars for birdwatching, and a small first-aid kit.
Seasonal Tips:
- Spring/Summer: Light clothing and sunscreen are essential as it can get warm. Bring plenty of water.
- Fall/Winter: Bring a light jacket as the evenings can be cool, especially near the lake.