Gilroy Gardens
Gilroy: 3050 Hecker Pass (Hwy. 152); (408) 840-7100. www.gilroygardens.org
Set among 600 acres, this family park is a one-of-a-kind experience combining four unique gardens and amusement rides with the mid-20th century history and agricultural roots of Santa Clara Valley. Attractions include the "Mushroom Swing," "Garlic Twril," "Artichoke Dip," "Quicksilver Express," and "The Dehydrator." Also at the park is a 1927 Illinois Carousel, a 36-hole miniature golf course, and a greenhouse with an assortment of trees, flowers, and plants that can be experienced—like much of the park—by monorail, train, or foot. The most unusual sights at the park ar its Citrus Trees: 29 coiled, twisted, and spiral-shaped sycamores, box elders, and Spanish cork trees created in the 1920s using special grafting techniques. Open through December.
Great America Santa Clara: Great America Pkwy., between Hwys. 101 & 237; (408) 988-1776. www1.cedarfair.com/greatamerica/
Northern California’s largest family entertainment attraction offers over 50 thrill rides, along with tons of family rides and attractions. New this year, take a trip "down-under" at Crocodile Dundee’s Boomerang Bay™, an Australian-inspired water park inside Great America. Enjoy 11 new water slides, a giant water-powered playhouse, and a kiddie splash area. The epicenter of excitement for younger kids lies in Nickelodeon™ Central, an expanded area for kids.
Raging Waters San Jose: 2333 S. White Rd.; (408) 238-9900. www.rwsplash.com
Twenty three acres of slides and attractions include a 350,000-gallon wavepool, kids' water attractions, Barracuda Blaster, and the new Dragon's Den. Open May through September.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Santa Cruz: 400 Beach St.; (831) 423-5590. www.beachboardwalk.com
This ocean-side amusement park features 34 full size and children’s rides, including the Giant Dipper roller coaster, merry-go-round, haunted house, and Hurricane. Additional entertainment at the Neptune’s Kingdom. Rides open daily Memorial Day through Labor Day, weekends only during spring and fall.
