10 Amazing Places to Visit and Things to Do in Gilbert, AZ

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore 10 amazing places to visit and things to do in Gilbert, AZ, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the town’s charming attractions, vibrant local culture, and scenic outdoor activities.

If Arizona had a best-kept-secret award, Gilbert would win by a landslide. Just southeast of Phoenix, this former farming town has blossomed into a vibrant suburb while keeping its small-town soul intact.

 

With its picturesque downtown Gilbert, bustling culinary scene, and gorgeous outdoors, this fast-growing community offers a delightful mix of old and new. Gilbert trails wind through lush desert landscapes. Indie boutiques and farm-to-table eateries line Heritage District streets. There’s no shortage of fun things to do around Gilbert, AZ.

Ready to uncover Gilbert’s gems? Lace up your hiking boots, grab your shopping bags, and dive into our ultimate guide to the top places to visit in Gilbert, AZ.

 

1. Stroll the Heritage District

Downtown Gilbert is the heartbeat of this desert town. The tree-lined Heritage District along Gilbert Road hums with energy day and night.

 

Start your stroll at the iconic Water Tower, a 1920s-era landmark that’s now a local history museum. Admire the red-brick buildings and colourful murals as you wander down the block.

 

You’ll find an eclectic mix of indie shops, art galleries, and vintage stores here. Pop into Farmhouse for shabby-chic home decor, or treat yourself at So Cute It Hurts Boutique. The Powerhouse Antique Marketplace is a picker’s paradise, with over 20 dealers under one roof.

 

When hunger strikes, take your pick from the district’s tasty eateries (more on that below). Grab an iced coffee at Bergies, or cool off with a scoop of artisanal ice cream at Petersen’s Old-Fashioned Ice Cream.

 

Don’t miss the Gilbert Farmers Market on Saturday mornings from October to March. It’s a hub of fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local makers. Listen to live music as you stroll and sample.

Attraction	Address	Hours
HD SOUTH, Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum	10 S. Gilbert Rd.	Tues-Sat 9 am-4 pm
Powerhouse Antique Marketplace	215 N. Gilbert Rd.	Daily 10 am-6 pm
Gilbert Farmers Market	222 N. Ash St.	Sat 8 am-12 pm (Oct-Mar)

 

2. Hike the Riparian Preserve

Trade the bustle of downtown for the tranquillity of the Gilbert Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. This 110-acre oasis is a paradise for nature lovers and one of the top places to visit in Gilbert, AZ.

 

Stroll 4.5 miles of trails that loop around seven water recharge ponds. The paved paths are mostly flat, making it an easy hike for all ages and fitness levels. Benches and shady ramadas offer spots to rest along the way.

 

The preserve is a haven for desert wildlife, especially birds. Over 298 species have been spotted here, from herons to hummingbirds. Grab your binoculars and see how many you can spot from the viewing blinds.

 

Visit around sunrise or sunset for the best birding and to beat the heat. Stop by the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory to stargaze on Friday and Saturday evenings.

 

Trail	Distance	Difficulty
Pond 1 Loop	0.55 mi	Easy
Pond 7 Loop	0.80 mi	Easy
Riparian Preserve Outer Loop	3.14 mi	Easy

 

3. Have a Farm-to-Table Feast

Gilbert’s agricultural roots run deep, and the town’s culinary scene reflects that farm-fresh goodness. The Heritage District is peppered with chef-driven restaurants that showcase local ingredients in creative ways.

 

For an upscale experience, book a table at Nico Heirloom Kitchen. Chef Gio Osso crafts contemporary Italian plates with a nod to his heritage. Think handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and Nonna’s meatballs. The wine list features top Arizona vintages.

 

Craving comfort food? Head to Liberty Market, a hip spot housed in a former grocery store. The menu puts a gourmet spin on diner classics, from grass-fed burgers to roasted veggie hash. Snag a sidewalk table and people-watch over brunch.

 

Other notable restaurants in Gilbert include The Farmhouse Restaurant, Joe’s Real BBQ, and Postino East. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. Check table availability and book online before you go.

 

4. Shop ‘Til You Drop at SanTan Village

Shopping in Gilbert doesn’t get much better than SanTan Village. This sprawling outdoor mall boasts over 130 stores, from big-box retailers to local boutiques.

Stroll the palm-lined promenades as you browse the likes of Apple, H&M, Sephora, and REI. Find great deals at the Nike Factory Store or splurge on designer digs at Macy’s.

 

When you need a shopping break, catch a flick at the luxe Harkins Theatres SanTan Village 16. The reclining seats and reserved seating make it a moviegoing treat. Grab a bite at Grimaldi’s Pizzeria or Pita Jungle after the show.

 

The mall hosts events throughout the year, from car shows to holiday festivities. Check the website for the latest happenings.

Store	Category
Apple	Electronics
H&M	Apparel
Sephora	Beauty
REI	Outdoor Gear

 

5. Catch a Show at Hale Centre Theatre

Tucked in the heart of downtown, the Hale Centre Theatre is Gilbert’s premier performing arts venue. This intimate theatre showcases Broadway-caliber musicals and plays year-round.

 

The productions are top-notch, with lavish sets, dazzling costumes, and stellar performances by local talent. Recent shows have included Les Misérables, Newsies, and The Sound of Music.

 

The theater’s thrust stage juts out into the audience, putting you right in the middle of the action. There’s not a bad seat in the house, but the closer rows offer the most immersive experience.

 

Tickets tend to sell out fast, so book well in advance. Splurge on the Director’s Box for a VIP experience, complete with plush seats and wait service.

 

6. Picnic at Freestone Park

Pack a picnic and head to Freestone Park, an 88-acre oasis in the heart of Gilbert. This sprawling green space has something for everyone, from sports fields to fishing lakes.

Spread your blanket on the great lawn and enjoy your al fresco feast. Let the kids run wild on the playground, or challenge them to a game of mini golf on the 18-hole course.

 

Feeling sporty? Break a sweat on the sand volleyball courts or hit the skate park. Rent a pedal boat and cruise around the lake, or cast a line and try your luck at fishing.

 

The park hosts events throughout the year, from outdoor concerts to food truck festivals. Check the town’s website for a calendar of happenings.

 

7. Learn About Gilbert’s History

For a dose of local lore, head to the HD SOUTH Museum in the Heritage District. Housed in the original Gilbert Elementary School building, this museum traces the town’s journey from farming outpost to booming suburb.

 

Browse exhibits on Gilbert’s early days, from its founding in 1902 to the post-World War II boom. See vintage farming equipment, classic cars, and a 1950s-era kitchen. Don’t miss the model train village, a miniature replica of Gilbert circa 1925.

 

The museum also hosts rotating exhibits on local art, culture, and history. Check the website for the current lineup and special events.

 

Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and students, and free for kids under 12. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm.

 

8. Tee Off at Trilogy Golf Club

Dust off your clubs and hit the links at Trilogy Golf Club at Power Ranch. This 18-hole championship course offers a scenic and challenging round for golfers of all levels.

The course winds through the Santan Mountains, with stunning views of the desert landscape at every turn. The undulating greens and strategically placed bunkers will keep you on your toes.

 

The club also offers a driving range, putting green, and chipping areas to hone your skills. Take a lesson with a PGA pro or join a clinic to up your game.

 

After your round, refuel at the Slate Bistro & Bar. The restaurant serves up tasty fare like flatbreads, sandwiches, and salads, plus local craft beers and cocktails. Grab a seat on the patio and soak up the mountain views.

 

9. Get in Touch With Your Inner Yogi

Find your Zen at Kaleidoscope Juice Gilbert, a sleek cafe and yoga studio in the Heritage Marketplace. This hip spot serves up cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls, and plant-based eats that are as delicious as they are nutritious.

 

Refuel with an acai bowl loaded with fresh fruit, granola, and coconut flakes. Sip on a green juice packed with kale, spinach, and apple. Or try a superfood latte spiked with adaptogens like ashwagandha and reishi.

 

The cafe also offers daily yoga classes in a variety of styles, from vinyasa to yin. Drop in for a class or sign up for a workshop to deepen your practice. Mats and props are available to rent.

 

Check the website for the class schedule and to book your spot. First-time students can snag a great deal on an introductory pass.

 

10. Take a Day Trip to the Superstition Mountains

Gilbert’s prime location puts you within easy reach of some of Arizona’s most stunning landscapes. Case in point: the Superstition Mountains, a rugged wilderness area just 30 miles east of town.

 

This craggy range is steeped in legend and lore, from tales of hidden gold to UFO sightings. But the real treasure is the hiking. The mountains boast over 180 miles of trails, from easy nature walks to strenuous summit treks.

 

One of the most popular hikes is the Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle. This 4.6-mile out-and-back trail climbs through desert scrub and boulder fields to a saddle with panoramic views of Weaver’s Needle, a volcanic monolith that’s the range’s most iconic landmark.

 

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As you explore all the exciting places to visit in Gilbert, AZ, stay connected with Airtel’s Postpaid international roaming plans. With reliable coverage and affordable data packages, you can easily navigate the things to do around Gilbert, AZ, from finding the best shopping in Gilbert to making reservations at popular restaurants in Gilbert. Plus, you can share all your adventures in real-time with loved ones back home. Don’t let spotty service hold you back – choose Airtel for a seamless travel experience.

 

Gilbert may seem like a small desert town, but scratch the surface and you’ll find a vibrant community filled with Southwestern charm, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights. Whether you’re hiking the rugged trails of the Superstitions, browsing the boutiques of downtown Gilbert, or savouring a sizzling fajita at a local cantina, Gilbert offers a true taste of the American West. So pack your sunscreen, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the many places to visit in Gilbert, AZ. Your Arizona adventure awaits!