Understand

Los Gatos: A Historical Gem Step back in time to the mid-1850s when the flourishing town of Los Gatos first emerged. It all started with the construction of Forbes Mill, a magnificent flour operation by James Alexander Forbes. Today, the mill's stone storage annex stands as a testament to its rich history, transformed into a captivating museum just off Main Street. Originally named after the mill, the settlement later adopted the name Los Gatos, inspired by the Spanish land grant. In 1887, Los Gatos became an incorporated town and played a vital role in the logging industry of the Santa Cruz Mountains throughout the late 19th century. As the 20th century dawned, Los Gatos transformed into a thriving agricultural hub, cultivating apricots, grapes, and prunes. Venture into downtown Los Gatos, an enchanting district that has preserved and restored its charming Victorian-era homes and commercial buildings. Stroll past the notable Forbes Mill annex, dating back to 1880 and now housing a captivating history museum. Explore the historic Los Gatos High School, which traces its origins to the 1920s. Lastly, discover the Old Town Shopping Center, formerly the University Avenue School, established in 1882 and boasting buildings from 1923. Los Gatos: Where the past meets the present in a captivating tapestry of history and charm.

Get in

• San Francisco International (SFO) 40 miles north of Los Gatos
  • Start your journey at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). This bustling airport is located just 40 miles north of Los Gatos, your gateway to adventure.
  • From the airport, head south on US 101 towards San Jose. Feel the excitement build as you hit the open road and leave the city behind.
  • Merge onto CA-85 S and continue your journey deeper into California's picturesque landscapes.
  • Head south on CA-17 S, a scenic route that will take you through breathtaking vistas and charming towns.
  • Finally, follow the road to Los Gatos, your destination filled with endless possibilities for exploration and fun.

• San Jose International (SJC) 11 miles from Los Gatos
  • If you prefer flying into San Jose International Airport (SJC), you're just 11 miles away from Los Gatos.
  • Upon arrival, take I-880 S towards Santa Cruz, and get ready for an exhilarating drive through California's beautiful landscapes.
  • Continue on CA-17 S, a route that will lead you to Los Gatos, where adventure awaits at every corner.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing