4 Reasons to Visit Morgan Hill
Need a break this season? Plan a getaway to Morgan Hill! Whether you’re looking to just relax and explore a new place, traveling for work, or road tripping through California for winter break—Morgan Hill is the genuine, laid-back getaway spot that’s been there all along. Don’t just pass on by! Check out our top 4 reasons to visit the unique community of Morgan Hill…
1. A hidden gem THAT’s Easy to get to
Morgan Hill is where bustling tech culture unwinds into a relaxed, agricultural community—and it’s super easy to get to. This unassuming city, just south of San Jose, is growing in popularity for its downtown dining, wine country, rolling hills, and charm. As you cruise down California Highway 101, the distinctive El Toro Peak signals that you are close. Within minutes you’ll be checking into your cozy hotel and heading out to discover this quaint city oasis! Where is Morgan Hill?
Flying in? Rent a car or grab a rideshare from San Jose International Airport (SJC). It’s about 30 minutes by car to Morgan Hill or an easy CalTrain ride on weekdays. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is about an hour away. Once in Morgan Hill, use your favorite rideshare apps or the local MoGo Quick Ride! Everything is closeby. Fun fact - Morgan Hill is on the eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains and just under an hour drive to the beach!
2. A CONNECTED CULINARY CULTURE
Get the vibes going with the delicious creations of Morgan Hill’s amazing chefs and culinary network! Choose from an eclectic range of independent restaurants that collaborate with local purveyors to bring you a one-of-a-kind dining experience! Our eateries incorporate fresh flavors from local farms, pour wines from local vineyards, and serve craft beer and cider from local brewers! Our Cuisine Guide makes it easy to find the best restaurants in Morgan Hill. And you’ll never have to wait long to get a table!
With plenty of happy hours and group dining spots for family get-togethers, you’re sure to find a perfect meal and setting for every special occasion. Toast to the season with your loved ones over an artfully made cocktail, local cabernet, or something bubbly from Morgan Hill. Downtown at the brew pubs and bistros you’ll find over 100 taps of craft brew, flexible indoor-outdoor gathering space, food trucks, and live music on weekly rotation.
3. Seasonal farms and winery wonders
The temps may be cooling but Morgan Hill’s mild, coastal climate is just right for enjoying our local agricultural treasures—farms and wineries! Pick from a dozen cozy-cute wine tasting rooms in town or catch live music and sip n’ shops along the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail. Tucked into the pastoral valleys just inland from the coast, this is approachable wine tasting at its finest. You’ll find casual yet beautiful locations, affordable tasting fees, and award winning gems that just might become your new favorites.
Morgan Hill farms provide the picture perfect fall outing. Visit our most famous orchard for fresh persimmons, citrus, and addictive chocolate dipped dried apricots. Wander the pop-up pumpkin patches for a true working farm experience. The year-round Morgan Hill Farmers Market has 25+ vendors offering local produce, flowers, honey. Explore the farm to fork eateries to enjoy the local bounty in its final consumbable form. Check out our Event Calendar for winery events and holiday farm fun during your visit!
4. LOCALLY CRAFTED & CURATED Shopping
Morgan Hill embraces independent businesses and has a network of curated shopping experiences that make the “chore” of finding unique holiday gifts simply enjoyable. Skip the box stores and shop Downtown Morgan Hill where you’ll find an array of one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques. Peruse the local gallery for Bay Area art goods and jewelry, or learn a new medium with a class taught by talented artists. Find ways to channel your inner wellness at the crystal shop, and pick up some eco-friendly travel and home goods from the refill store. The twinkling tree-lined streets of downtown and around the city are perfect for window shopping and feature a number of public art sculptures and murals.
Sidewalk Saturdays outdoor makers’ market, pops up every fall in Downtown Morgan Hill. This event features artisan stalls offering goods like blown glass art, handmade jewelry, unique leather accessories, succulent plants, Morgan Hill apparel, kitchenwares, and home decor items. Beauty bars and jewelry shops host “sip and shop” events perfect for a girls night out, or just treating yourself. Restaurants and shops also host other events like ‘paint and sips,’ DIY workshops, bouquet making, and local makers markets.
If you’re passing by on Highway 101, plan a “chill” getaway to the unique community of Morgan Hill!
