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Get Your Kicks in Gilbert: The Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit in Arizona’s Most Happening Town

Gilbert keeps three versions of itself. The Heritage District holds the restaurants, the bars and the tree-lined streets of the old town, which is the easy one to spend a day in. Agritopia keeps the farming alive as a working urban community rather than a museum display. The historical museum keeps the rest. A 1913 schoolhouse and a reproduction farmhouse stand there, and you pick by how much you want the past to still be moving.

Welcome to Gilbert, Arizona, where the sun is out and the people are friendly. This charming town sits in the southeast valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area and is known for its small-town feel, its excellent schools and its family-friendly atmosphere. Local or tourist, there are plenty of things to do and places to visit in Gilbert to fill days rather than hours.

History buffs will take to Gilbert’s past. The town was founded in 1891 and was once known as the Hay Shipping Capital of the World. Today Gilbert is a busy community with a past you can work through in its museums and historical landmarks. That is not all it carries either, since shopping, dining, outdoor adventure and cultural experiences are all here.

Key Takeaways

• Gilbert, Arizona is a charming town located in the southeast valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
• Gilbert has a rich history that can be explored through its many museums and historical landmarks.
• From shopping and dining to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Gilbert truly has something for everyone.

A Glimpse of Gilbert’s History

So you want to learn about Gilbert’s history. Buckle up, partner, because this is a ride through time.

Gilbert was once known as the Hay Shipping Capital of the World. Yes, you read that correctly. This farming community ran on alfalfa and cotton in its day. Imagine the excitement of being the hay shipping capital of the world, because it must have been a real hootenanny.

Gilbert’s history reaches back further than that. The town was founded in 1891 and named after William Bobby Gilbert, who handed land to the Arizona Eastern Railway. And do not forget the Gilbert Historical Museum, which is dedicated to preserving the town’s history. It is a real gem, y’all.

Speaking of gems, Gilbert has a place on the National Register of Historic Places. It is true. The Gilbert Elementary School, built in 1913, is a clean example of early 20th-century architecture. It still stands today, tall and proud.

All in all, Gilbert’s history is a fascinating one. From its roots as a farming community to its current status as a busy town, this is a place that has seen a great deal of change over the years. Next time you are in town, take a moment for that history. You might learn something new.

Exploring the Downtown Gilbert

For a fun day out, head to Downtown Gilbert. This historic district holds some of the strongest restaurants, bars and shops in the city. Barbecue, cocktails, pizzas or appetizers, it is all here.

Joe’s Farm Grill is among the popular spots in Downtown Gilbert. This restaurant is known for its delicious burgers, fries and milkshakes. The outdoor seating area suits a meal with friends or family. And do not forget the famous onion rings.

For barbecue, head to Liberty Market. This restaurant puts out some of the strongest barbecue in the city. Order the brisket and the ribs. The craft beer selection on draft holds up too.

After a cocktail? Check out The White Rabbit. This speakeasy-style bar mixes some of the strongest cocktails in the city. The bartenders know their stock and are friendly with it, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate.

For pizza, head to Grimaldi’s. This restaurant turns out some of the strongest pies in the city. Order the margherita pizza, because it is a classic for good reason.

And for appetizers, head to Postino East. This restaurant carries a strong selection of small plates and shareables. Order the bruschetta and the charcuterie board.

Downtown Gilbert is a good place to spend a day exploring. Food, drinks or shopping, it is all here. Grab some friends and head down to the Heritage District for the day.

A Gastronomic Adventure in Gilbert

After a culinary adventure? Gilbert, Arizona is the answer. This charming town holds restaurants and food markets of every sort, enough to satisfy any appetite.

Start the journey at the Gilbert Farmers Market. Local and organic produce fills the stalls, from juicy tomatoes to crisp lettuce, and everything you need for a good meal is in there. And for the adventurous, unusual fruits and vegetables turn up that you will not recognize.

After the farmers market, head over to Joe’s Farm Grill for the barbecue. This local favorite serves burgers, sandwiches and salads built on fresh, local ingredients. Do not miss the famous onion rings, which are the appetizer to share with friends.

For pizza, head over to Barro’s Pizza. This family-owned restaurant has been serving delicious pies since 1980. Choose from a range of toppings and crusts and build the pizza you want. And for anyone not in the mood for pizza, salads, sandwiches and pasta dishes are all on the menu.

Whatever cuisine you are in the mood for, Gilbert has a version of it. Grab your appetite and get on with the culinary adventure.

The Great Outdoors: Parks and Nature in Gilbert

You are in Gilbert, Arizona and after some fun in the great outdoors. You are in luck, because Gilbert carries plenty of parks and nature areas.

First up, we’ve got the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. This place is a nature lover’s paradise with over 200 species of birds, seven ponds, and plenty of paths to explore. You might even spot some ducks waddling around. If you’re feeling adventurous, bring your fishing gear and try your luck at Water Ranch Lake, which is stocked with trout, catfish, bass, and sunfish.

If you’re looking for a more traditional park experience, head over to Freestone Park. This park has everything you need for a fun day outside, including playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The rides area could use a refresh, but overall, the park is really nice.

Want to get a bird’s-eye view of Gilbert? Head over to Sky Park. This park has a unique feature: a hot air balloon ride! You can soar above Gilbert and take in the stunning desert landscape from a whole new perspective.

Last but not least, we’ve got the Heritage District. While not a traditional park or nature area, the Heritage District is a must-visit if you’re in Gilbert. This historic area is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and galleries. Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets and soak up the small-town vibe.

Gilbert, Arizona carries a great deal on parks and nature areas. Bird watching at the Riparian Preserve through to the Heritage District, there is a version for you. Get outside and use it.

The Stellar World of Gilbert

Welcome to the stellar world of Gilbert. Home to the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory, this city suits astronomy enthusiasts exactly. Get ready to work through the universe, the planets and the stars.

At the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory you can look at the stars through their state-of-the-art telescopes. Beginner or expert, there is a version here for you. Astronomy classes and events run regularly for anyone wanting the theory alongside the view.

With luck you catch a glimpse of a shooting star. Bring a blanket and some snacks and give the night sky the time it deserves.

The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory is not the only place to work through the universe. The nearby Superstition Mountain Museum covers the history of space exploration and the pioneers who made it happen.

And for anyone feeling adventurous, take a trip to the Grand Canyon. It sits within driving distance of Gilbert and ranks among the strongest stargazing anywhere in the world. The Milky Way and the constellations come out properly up there.

So what is the delay? Grab your telescope and get ready to work through the stellar world of Gilbert.

Arts and Entertainment in Gilbert

Gilbert is a hub of artistic and cultural activity. Theater enthusiast or comedy lover, there is a version here for you. These are the places to visit for arts and entertainment in Gilbert.

Hale Centre Theatre: If you are looking for a night of entertainment, then the Hale Centre Theatre is the perfect place for you. With a seating capacity of 350, this theater is known for its Broadway-style productions. From musicals to plays, this theater has it all. And the best part? You can enjoy the show while sipping on a glass of wine or beer.

Jester’Z Improv Comedy: Are you in the mood for some good laughs? Then head over to Jester’Z Improv Comedy. This comedy club is known for its hilarious and interactive shows. The performers take suggestions from the audience and create funny skits on the spot. You never know what to expect, but you can be sure that you will be laughing all night long.

Art Intersection: If you are an art lover, then Art Intersection is a must-visit. This art gallery showcases the work of local artists, and you can even take art classes here. From photography to printmaking, there is a wide range of art forms to explore. And who knows, you might even discover your hidden artistic talent.

Tuscany Theatre: The Tuscany Theatre is a hidden gem in Gilbert. This 120-seat theater features family entertainment, community theater, and art and education. From musicals to plays, this theater has it all. And the best part? You can enjoy the show in a cozy and intimate setting.

Gilbert Art Walk: The Gilbert Art Walk is a monthly event that takes place on the first and third Saturdays of every month. This event features local artists, live music, and food trucks. It’s a great way to explore the local art scene and support local artists.

Gilbert has plenty of options for arts and entertainment. Theaters through to art galleries, there is a version for you. Grab your friends and family and head out for the evening.

Shopping and Retail Therapy in Gilbert

In need of some retail therapy? Gilbert, Arizona is the answer. The shopping options here run wide enough to satisfy the shopper in you.

First on the shopping adventure is the Santan Village shopping center. This outdoor mall carries everything a shopping day needs. High-end fashion stores through to popular chain retailers, it is all here. And stop by the Apple store for the latest tech gadgets.

For something unique, head over to the Gilbert Farmers Market. This local market carries handmade crafts, fresh produce and artisanal goods. Browsing the stalls supports local businesses at the same time.

Need to rest your feet? Take a break at one of the many restaurants or cafes across the shopping centers. Grab a cup of coffee and a pastry at the local bakery, or order sushi at the trendy Japanese restaurant.

And check the seasonal events and sales running through the year. Black Friday deals through to Christmas markets, something is usually happening in Gilbert’s shopping scene.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your wallet and get ready to shop till you drop in Gilbert, Arizona.

Gilbert is flat, hot and spread out, and that shapes everything about a visit. The Riparian Preserve carries miles of walking trails and almost no shade worth the name, so go early in the day or go late in the evening. The Heritage District is the only stretch you can genuinely walk from end to end. Santan Village, Topgolf and the observatory all want a car to reach. Plan around temperature, not distance.

Sports and Recreation in Gilbert

Gilbert works well for sports and recreation, for the seasoned athlete and for anyone simply after some fun activities. These are the sports and recreation options available in Gilbert:

Golf

Golf enthusiast? Western Skies Golf Club is the answer, where a challenging round comes with long views over the San Tan Mountains. This 18-hole championship course suits beginners and experienced golfers alike. And for help with your swing, the club runs lessons with PGA professionals.

Games

For a fun and unique activity with friends or family, check out Topgolf in Gilbert. This high-tech driving range uses microchipped golf balls and targets so you can compete across a range of games. And a poor golf swing is no obstacle, because Topgolf runs on fun rather than accuracy.

Sports

Gilbert holds sports leagues and facilities of every sort, basketball, soccer and baseball among them. Join a league or simply shoot some hoops with friends, since both are easy to arrange. And for something more unusual, Gilbert’s trampoline park lets you bounce, flip and dunk to your heart’s content.

Improving a golf game, competing in some fun games or simply getting active with sports, Gilbert carries plenty of options.

Community and Culture in Gilbert

Gilbert may be a small town, and the sense of community and culture in it is not small at all. Events and activities run through the year, celebrating the town’s heritage and pulling people together.

One of the unusual parts of Gilbert’s culture is the community garden program. Rent a plot of land and grow your own fruits and veggies, or simply stop by to look at the flowers and plants. It is a good way to connect with nature and with your fellow Gilbertians.

The fun does not stop there. Gilbert runs events across the year, from the Gilbert Days Parade to the Gilbert Farmers Market. And you can catch a show at the Hale Centre Theatre, which programs classic and contemporary productions alike.

And there is the food. Gilbert runs a thriving culinary scene, with local restaurants and food trucks putting out delicious eats. BBQ through to sushi, there is a version for everyone.

Perhaps the strongest part of Gilbert’s culture is the people. You find friendly faces everywhere, at the park, at the library or in the local coffee shop. It is a town where everyone knows your name, or at least your face, and it is hard not to feel part of something.

So come on down to Gilbert and take the blend of community and culture as it comes. You might fall in love with this charming little town.

Education and Learning in Gilbert

You may not think of education and learning as fun activities, and in Gilbert they can be. Libraries through to classes and elementary schools, there are plenty of ways to expand your mind and enjoy it.

For a great school for your kids, Gilbert has plenty of options. The strongest-rated elementary schools in the area include the Patterson Elementary School and the Quartz Hill Elementary School. Both carry excellent teachers and staff who are dedicated to helping children learn and grow.

Education is not only for kids. The Gilbert Library carries books, magazines and other resources for expanding your own knowledge. It also runs classes and workshops on everything from writing to cooking to technology. Who knew learning could be this enjoyable?

For classes, Gilbert has plenty of options for you. Take dance classes at the Dance Connection, art classes at the Art Intersection, or cooking classes at the Sweet Basil Gourmetware & Cooking School. They are a good way to learn something new and meet people at the same time.

A great school for your kids or simply something new to learn, Gilbert has a version of it. Get out there and expand your mind.

Gilbert for the Weekend

You have a weekend in Gilbert, Arizona and you are wondering what to do. Fear not, because Gilbert carries plenty of fun activities.

Events

First things first, check what events are running during your stay. Gilbert is known for its festivals and community events, so something usually turns up. Watch for the Gilbert Farmers Market, which runs every Saturday morning with local vendors selling fresh produce and handmade goods.

Outdoor Activities

For fresh air, head to the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. This nature preserve carries miles of walking trails, seven ponds and plenty of birdwatching. Kayak and paddleboard rentals put you on the waterways too.

For something more adventurous, check out Topgolf. This high-tech driving range suits golfers of all skill levels, and the food and drinks hold up. It also opens late, so the evening carries on.

Food and Drink

On food and drink, Gilbert has plenty to satisfy your cravings. For breakfast, head to Snooze an A.M. Eatery for pancakes worth the trip. For lunch, Joe’s Real BBQ has the brisket. And for dinner, Postino East runs Italian-inspired dishes.

Shopping

And no weekend is complete without a little shopping. Gilbert has plenty of options, from the SanTan Village outdoor mall to the charming downtown area. Check the local boutiques and gift shops for the unusual finds.

So there you have it, your guide to a fun-filled weekend in Gilbert, Arizona. Get ready to make some memories.

Unique Experiences in Gilbert

Gilbert, Arizona is full of unique experiences you will not find elsewhere. Getting into nature, trying something new or simply having fun, there is a version for everyone. These are the unique experiences to have in Gilbert:

Birdwatching at the Riparian Preserve

Birdwatching fans are in luck. The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a haven for bird enthusiasts. With seven ponds and a recreational fishing lake stocked with trout, catfish, bass and sunfish, the wildlife turns up reliably. The preserve also carries three campsites, so you can stay the night and get properly into it.

Shooting at the Rio Salado Sportsman’s Club

After a unique way to blow off some steam? Head to the Rio Salado Sportsman’s Club and try shooting. A range of firearms and ammo is available, so the afternoon goes with a bang. The club also runs classes and training for beginners, covering how to shoot safely and responsibly.

Meditation at the Gilbert Temple

Looking to find some inner peace? The Gilbert Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers a peaceful and serene environment for meditation and reflection. Member of the church or simply after somewhere quiet, the grounds and the architecture will help you find it.

Whatever you are after, Gilbert has something unique and fun to offer. Try something new and make some memories.

Unveiling Gilbert’s Agriculture

Welcome to Gilbert, where the alfalfa, cotton and dairy farms that first put the town on the map a century ago have given up their acreage to the town’s growth. Do not worry, though, because town leaders and residents have taken thoughtful steps to recognize and remember the community’s agricultural roots and history.

Farming enthusiasts should visit Agritopia, a unique urban agricultural community that shows the town’s farming past and present at once. Take a stroll through the community garden and work through the locally grown organic produce. A tour of the farm covers the different crops grown in the area.

To get your hands dirty, head to the community garden and join the planting and harvesting of crops. It is a good way to connect with the community and learn why local produce matters.

Gilbert is also home to the Gilbert Farmers Market, carrying fresh and organic produce alongside handmade crafts and artisanal goods. The market runs every Saturday between 7 and 11 in the morning, which makes it the place to stock up on locally grown fruits and vegetables.

To learn more about the town’s farming history, head to the Gilbert Historical Museum, where displays and artifacts cover Gilbert’s agricultural past. A reproduction of a farmhouse from the early 20th century stands there alongside a renovated 1913 schoolhouse. It is a direct way into the town’s history and culture.

Gilbert’s agriculture is an essential part of the town’s history and culture. Farming enthusiast or simply someone after fresh and organic produce, Gilbert has a version for you. Put on your gardening gloves and work through the town’s agricultural roots.

Gilbert’s Nightlife

After a night out in Gilbert? You are in luck. Gilbert’s nightlife scene runs from laid-back breweries to swanky cocktail bars.

Beer lovers should head over to the Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company. This brewery carries a wide list of craft beers, their famous Peanut Butter Milk Stout included. Yes, Peanut Butter Milk Stout. Do not knock it until you try it. The food menu holds up too, running from wood-fired pizzas to creative salads.

For cocktails, check out the Killer Whale Sex Club. Do not let the name fool you, because this is a classy joint. The cocktail menu runs long, from classic Old Fashioneds to originals like the Smokey Robinson, a mezcal-based drink with grapefruit and lime. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, which suits a date night or an evening with friends.

For a more laid-back vibe, head over to the OHSO Brewery. This brewery carries a large outdoor patio area, which is where a beer belongs in the Arizona sunshine. The craft beer list runs long and the food menu covers burgers, salads and tacos.

Whatever your style, Gilbert’s nightlife scene has a version of it. Grab your friends and get ready for the evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to spend a day in Gilbert without breaking the bank?

You cannot go wrong with the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. It suits a bird lover exactly and it costs nothing at all. Take a stroll through the Gilbert Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisanal bread and other goodies. And for the adventurous, head out to the Superstition Mountains for a hike, where the views cost nothing either.

Are there any hidden gems in Gilbert that tourists often miss?

Absolutely. Check out the Hale Centre Theatre for live performances that hold up against anywhere. It is a small, intimate venue and the productions are consistently strong. The Gilbert Historical Museum is the other one, which covers the town’s history and culture and is genuinely fun with it.

What’s the most unusual attraction in Gilbert?

It is not exactly in Gilbert, though it is close enough. The Mystery Castle is a bizarre and fascinating structure in the foothills of South Mountain. It was built by a man named Boyce Luther Gulley as a gift for his daughter, entirely out of found and recycled materials. It earns the visit for anyone after something out of the ordinary.

Can you recommend any indoor activities in Gilbert for when it’s too hot to be outside?

Certainly. How about the Gilbert House of Mystery? It is a fun and interactive museum where you solve puzzles and work escape rooms. Or, for something a little more relaxing, head to the Joya Spa at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, where massages, facials and other treatments are on offer.

What’s the best time of year to visit Gilbert for outdoor activities?

Fall and winter are when Gilbert works outdoors. The weather turns mild and comfortable, and outdoor festivals and events run steadily. Check out the Gilbert Days Parade and Carnival in November, or the Gilbert Global Village Festival in December.

What’s the craziest thing to do in Gilbert that only locals know about?

We cannot give away all of our secrets, and we will say this: watch for the occasional goat yoga class. Yes, yoga with goats. It is every bit as weird and wonderful as it sounds. Keep your ear to the ground and one may well turn up.

Frequently asked questions about Gilbert, Arizona

Which Gilbert museum covers the town’s farming past?

The Gilbert Historical Museum. Gilbert was once the Hay Shipping Capital of the World, running entirely on alfalfa and cotton, and the museum keeps all of the evidence of it. A reproduction farmhouse from the early 20th century still stands on the site there today. So does a renovated schoolhouse dating from 1913. The town itself was founded in 1891 and named for the man who handed the land to the railway.

Which Gilbert park suits birdwatching?

The Riparian Preserve. Over 200 species of bird pass through it, and the ponds plus a stocked fishing lake give them every reason to stay put for a good while. Trout, catfish, bass and sunfish are all in the water down there too. Campsites on the site itself let you stay overnight and catch the dawn shift. Freestone Park is the conventional alternative if playgrounds matter more to you than the herons do.

Which brewery in Gilbert is worth a visit?

Arizona Wilderness, for the oddity. Their Peanut Butter Milk Stout sounds like a dare and it works a great deal better than it has any right to. Wood-fired pizzas come out of the same kitchen. OHSO Brewery is the one with the large patio, which matters a great deal in this climate. The Killer Whale Sex Club is the cocktail bar, and it is a great deal classier than the name suggests.

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