5 Hidden Gems to Explore During Your Stay at Fitz Place

Because the best memories happen when you go off the beaten path.

More Than Wine Country: Discover Santa Clara Valley’s Local Magic

Staying at Fitz Place means waking up to vineyard views and the sounds of rustling oak trees. But while the property itself is designed to make you want to stay in and soak it all up, there’s a whole world of charm just beyond the front gates. From cozy cafés to unexpected outdoor gems, Santa Clara Valley is packed with local experiences that feel personal, authentic, and refreshingly crowd-free.

Whether you're planning a relaxing weekend with friends, a family reunion, or a bachelorette bash, these five hidden gems will round out your stay and help you create unforgettable moments.

1. Trail Dust BBQ — For Real California Comfort Food

Just a quick drive into Morgan Hill, Trail Dust BBQ is the kind of spot that locals swear by and visitors fall in love with. The vibe is relaxed, the staff is friendly, and the portions? Generous.

Come for the slow-smoked brisket, juicy tri-tip, and tender pulled pork—stay for the house-made sauces and jalapeño cornbread. It’s the perfect place to bring a group for a no-fuss dinner after a day of wine tasting or relaxing by the pool. The casual indoor-outdoor setup is ideal for unwinding without having to dress up or split the check six ways.

2. Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve — A Peaceful Nature Escape

Need a reset between winery visits? Coyote Valley is your answer. Located just north of Fitz Place, this lesser-known preserve offers panoramic views, breezy walking trails, and the kind of peaceful energy that makes you want to put your phone away.

You’ll find gentle hills, golden grasslands, and occasional wildlife sightings like hawks or deer. The Arrowhead Loop Trail is an easy 4-mile route—great for morning movement before brunch back at the estate. Bonus: the scenery makes a gorgeous backdrop for group selfies or engagement shots.

3. BookSmart Morgan Hill — A Cozy Indie Bookstore with Local Flavor

Tucked into a shopping plaza, BookSmart feels like a secret you’re lucky to know. It’s more than a bookstore—it’s a gift shop, a card aisle, and a gathering place. You’ll find everything from beach reads and cookbooks to locally made jewelry and unique baby gifts.

This is a perfect rainy-day stop or a way to spend a slow morning while sipping coffee and flipping through your next poolside read. If you’re planning a bachelorette weekend or birthday trip, swing by for fun cards and little gifts to surprise your guests.

4. Fortino Winery’s Live Music Nights — Sip, Sway, and Celebrate

While Santa Clara Valley is full of scenic wineries, Fortino brings something extra: live music. Their weekend events feature local bands and cover artists in a casual, open-air setting where you can dance, sip, and soak up the atmosphere.

Bring a blanket, grab a bottle (or two), and settle in under the stars. It’s the perfect way to celebrate a birthday, a wedding weekend kickoff, or just a great night with great company. Keep an eye on their calendar—some events include food trucks, and they’re family-friendly, too.

5. TenFiveOne Cider Co. — A Fresh Take on Local Flavor

Not everyone in your group loves wine? No problem. Just minutes from Fitz Place, TenFiveOne Cider Co. is the local cider scene’s best-kept secret. Their tasting room is stylish but low-key, their ciders are bright and creative, and their passion for using local fruit comes through in every pour.

Flights are fun to share, and you can even bring your own snacks for a laid-back hang. Try the dry hopped cider or seasonal releases for something a little different. It's a nice change of pace—and a conversation starter if you’re planning a group itinerary with variety.

Bonus: Make the Most of Your Stay

One of the biggest perks of Fitz Place is that you don’t have to go far to make memories. But sprinkling in a few off-property adventures keeps things dynamic and gives your guests a real sense of place.

Here’s how to mix and match:

• Start with a slow morning at the estate: coffee, sunrise walk, poolside lounging

• Head out for a short hike or explore a local shop

• Break up the afternoon with a cider tasting or casual dinner

• Return to Fitz Place for firepit stories or a night swim under the stars

Need help building your custom itinerary? We’re always happy to share more local favorites tailored to your group’s vibe.

Your Escape, Your Way

At Fitz Place, we believe that connection happens in the small, unexpected moments—a shared laugh over tacos, the quiet of a trail, the first sip of something new. These hidden gems are just a few of the ways you can enrich your stay and create a trip your guests will talk about long after checkout.

Want help planning your perfect mix of rest and adventure? Reach out and we’ll help you create a stay that’s as easygoing or exciting as you want it to be.