Morgan Hill, California. Ever heard of it? Most people haven’t, considering the puzzling looks I always get from people when asked where I am from. My reply is always the same, “We are that town just south of San Jose”. Yeah, heard of that place, right? Most people, whether you are from California or not, know about the city of San Jose. Morgan Hill is a small developing city growing from its origins as an agricultural community located in the backyard of the Silicon Valley. While ranches and orchards still span across our town, the city has grown into a bustling community that holds more than meets the eye.
Morgan Hill is truly a wonderful place and I advise many people to come and see what it has to offer. From the many festivals hosted in town, to a visit to the sprawling Henry Coe State park, the 2nd largest state park in California, there is a lot to see and do in Morgan Hill. The first thing tourists should do upon visiting Morgan Hillis hike Mount El Toro. While the city owes its namesake to Hiram Morgan Hill, (who settled here in 1884), it is Mount El Toro that stands as the iconic symbol of our little community. This rather large hill is very picturesque, standing tall and proud over the city. It can be seen from anywhere in the town, and while you are walking around Downtown Morgan Hill, it provides an awe inspiring view that symbolizes the wonder of our small town life. Taking a hike to the peak of El Toro is a great activity for tourists to get out and enjoy the open air and be rewarded with a wonderful view of the valley upon reaching the summit. Visitors can also take a strollaround Downtown Morgan Hill to experiencethe quaint mom and pop shops or to dineat one of the many restaurantsoffering foods from variousdiverse cultures, (several providing outdoor seating), to fully enjoy the calmness of a small town. Tourists can also view the historic Granada Movie Theater, the jewel of the downtown scene. It was constructed in the 50’s and while no longer functioning, is still a symbolic part of Downtown Morgan Hill and a unique sight to visit.
Probably the biggest event Morgan Hill has to offer and what most tourists should experience is our Morgan Hill Mushroom Mardi Gras. Held every year during Memorial Weekend, this event draws in thousands of tourists and residents in celebration of Mardi Gras, Mushrooms, and the city of Morgan Hill. As the town got its origins from an agricultural community, this event celebrates one of the most important crops Morgan Hill has to offer, the mushroom. Tourists can enjoy walking around the many arts & crafts booths set up around the Community Center and MainStreet, while indulging in a variety of organic and specialty mushroom dishes including stuffed mushrooms and mushroom burgers. This festival is a great way to bring the community together and share what Morgan Hill is all about withthe many visitors curious about our little town.
Morgan Hill is a great location to visit because it has the peaceful quietlife that a small town can provide without being too far away from the busy city life of San Jose and the Silicon Valley. There is much to see and do in Morgan Hill and the history and culture is very appealing to travelers. I hope this has piqued your interest and that you will visit us soon!
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