25 Fun & Best Things to Do in Gilbert (Arizona)

Gilbert, a town located southeast of Phoenix, is currently ranked in the top 100 most populous and wealthiest cities in the United States.

It was previously renowned as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World” due to its big farming community.

Gilbert was propelled forward by the construction of the Eastern and Consolidated Canals and the Roosevelt Dam.

This is where the past and present collide in an unusual blend, which, as a result, draws visitors year after year.

Play Golf, learn to shoot at the right on target clay, use the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory’s cutting-edge equipment to go stargazing.

Besides, you can enjoy birdwatching in the Riparian Preserve and have a delightful time with your dog at the Dog park.

Here is a list of activities to do when in Gilbert, Arizona.

Things To Do In Gilbert

1. Gilbert Riparian Observatory

The Gilbert Riparian Observatory is located at Gilbert’s Water Ranch’s Riparian Preserve, and it is the place to go if you’re interested in astronomy.

It’s a public observatory that opened in 2006, and its high-powered telescope will allow you to get a close look at the skies.

You can bring your children here. Your children will have a blast learning about the planets. Educated staff is also available to answer any questions you have about space.

The staff and volunteers are pleasant and would gladly assist you with the equipment and answer any astronomy questions you may have.

For a more personalized experience, you can also book a private viewing session for your family.

Lots of parking and established walkways.

See the stars. Bring a lunch or dinner and enjoy the quiet, peaceful atmosphere.

Address: 2757 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234, United States

2. Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

Riparian preserve is a lovely, calm sanctuary tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the wider Phoenix area.

With its man-made lakes and well-kept landscaping, this gorgeous region at Water Ranch is one of Gilbert’s most popular tourist destinations.

It is a beautiful spot for a short nature stroll, birdwatching, sunset viewing, and meditation in nature.

In addition, Riparian Preserve has become a paradise for nature lovers, with over 200 species of birds and animals.

A dinosaur fossil dig pit and an extravagant children’s playground are among other attractions to experience.

There are quite a bit of dragonflies in the area because it is a reserve, but they’re harmless and whizz right by. The animals are friendly, and the grounds seem clean and well kept.

The place also consists of restrooms and different trails to choose from.

There are quite many people who use the trail of all ages, but everyone seems friendly and respectful.

You may spend a relaxing afternoon wandering through the gorgeous grounds and birding or lounging in the afternoon sun.

If you’re feeling very daring, you can camp at one of the Preserve’s three campgrounds.

Address: 2757 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234, United States

3. San Tan Village

SanTan Village is a 1,200,000-square-foot open-air mega-regional lifestyle center located in Gilbert, Arizona.

It is an open-air shopping center. It has everything under one roof, with 50 stores, including top names like Dillard’s and Nordstrom Rack.

Do you see?! Just the mall you’ve always wanted!

In short, there are a plethora of shopping and dining options to suit all budgets.

There is stuff for both children and adults, and you can find pretty much anything here. Free Wi-Fi is also available.

After a fantastic day of shopping, reward yourself with a meal at one of the many top-rated restaurants and pubs, such as Grimaldi’s Pizza and Thirsty Lion.

Besides, local musicians perform year-round in the plaza, transforming SanTan into a vibrant hub of activity.

Address: 2218 E. Williams Field Road, Ste. 235, Gilbert, AZ 852950, United States

4. Gilbert Historical Museum

The Gilbert Historical Museum, Gilbert’s only museum, was once an elementary school in the early 1900s.

Located further south on Gilbert Rd, it has several exhibits outside and, of course, many artifacts from those times when Gilbert used to be the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World,” that was hundred years ago.

It has meticulously collected and conserved documents, mementos, and artifacts that give visitors a complete picture of the town’s fascinating history.

A perfectly maintained 100-year-old classroom and a military exhibit are among the museum’s 9 exhibit rooms.

Military room traces the history and sacrifices made by the town through the many wars since its founding.

There’s also a train display that recreates the track and train models as they were during World War II.

Besides, the exhibits are unique and very well presented – anything from old-time farming equipment household pottery to the ‘latest fashion’ (of the 1920s) dresses and even a wedding dress!

Apart from the aforementioned attractions, you can also visit the museum to take part in one of the museum’s many educational programs, which will be a fantastic experience for you.

Address: 10 S Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

5. Hale Centre Theatre – Gilbert

How about a bit of play to complement your total experience?

The phrase ‘small but mighty ‘ is a perfect description of this theatre as it has become a favorite place to see play production.

Built-in 1947, this privately owned theater is the longest-running American theater company, moreover over 30 Arizona awards have been given to them for their technical and artistic achievements.

The lobby is so beautiful! The theatre itself is large enough to feel spacious and yet still gives a feeling of intimacy as the show takes place in the center of the room.

The performers, costumes, props, lighting, and sound were absolutely fantastic.

They put on full-scale family-friendly productions such as musicals, tributes, classics, dramas, youth, and comedy events.

Shows are typically no more than 3 hours, with a short intermission.

The plays, whether comedy or musical, are always thoroughly enjoyable and represent an excellent caliber of local talent.

You can purchase tickets online, over the phone, or at their West Page Avenue location.

Address: 50 W Page Ave, Gilbert, AZ 85233, United States

Are you visiting other parts of Arizona? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Show Low, Prescott, Jerome, and Yuma!

6. Western Skies Golf Club

Western Skies Golf Club is a modestly priced, full-service golf course located only minutes from downtown Phoenix, and it satisfies the needs of anyone looking for economical golf!

Every level of golfer enjoys this typical 18-hole, 6700-yard layout.

You would really enjoy this course. It is pretty straightforward. It is not overly tough and good for those who are still getting the hang of their skills.

The course is excellent, with some long par 3s, and it appears that even when the course is crowded, everyone can play at a reasonable pace.

Although there are numerous houses along the fairways, they appear to be no interruption with play. Why don’t you treat yourselves to a lovely day out?

Address: 1245 E Warner RD, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

7. Gilbert Farmers Market

If you love fresh produce, then this is a place for you.

Located in downtown Gilbert, Gilbert Farmers Market (GFM) is an open-air Saturday market just west of the landmark Water Tower.

The market features local, organic produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, and artisanal food products.

The Gilbert Farmers Market is amazing! Wide variety of great local vendors. House plants, dog treats, scratch-made bread, organic produce, CBD, handmade soaps, just to name a few of the many fantastic, locally made products you’ll find here.

With the exception of a few dates throughout the year, the market hosts over 60 vendors during summer and close to 100 vendors during the fall and spring seasons. All these vendors offer a wide variety of locally grown produce from nearby farms and many local food producers from the Arizona area.

There are also a few food trucks that pull up here and some food vendors in the tents, making it a good place to get some brunch while you shop around.

The market’s purpose is to promote local sustainability, healthy eating, and green living practices across the town and surrounding area, as well as to educate the public about the benefits of consuming locally grown food.

Address: 222 N Ash St, Gilbert, AZ 85234, United States

8. SunDust Gallery Paint & Pottery Party Studio

SunDust Gallery provides classes on how to paint as well as clay and batik lessons.

All tools are given, and you may work at your own pace, which is very helpful if you’re a beginner painter.

If you don’t think a portrait will fit well with your home decor, you can opt for one of the more than 100 images available.

If you don’t have time to complete your masterpiece before the gallery closes, no worries; for a $10 studio charge, you can return your canvas at any time to finish it.

Paint a portrait of your pet! Well, not exactly. You are also welcome to bring your drinks and snacks.

Address: 183 E Williams Field Rd #109, Gilbert, AZ 85295, United States

9. Joe’s Farm Grill

Joe’s Farm Grill is one of Gilbert’s favorite local hangouts! The food is always fresh and flavorful. Their ranch, which they built themselves, is possibly one of the most relaxed ranches in the State.

The milkshakes are out of this world. Also, the farm burger is complete perfection with the in-house pickles and butter bun.

The food is prepared with fresh farm produce from the area, including all-natural beef for their burgers and trans-fat-free oil.

Even though there’s indoor seating, you can also sit outside under the trees.

The food is always worth the wait at Joe’s Farm Grill.

There is always a line, so don’t plan to come here if you are under time constraints, but the line moves steadily and it’s not incredibly long to get served. But when that food comes, you will be WELL PLEASED for every second you waited.

The farm is also known for its country location, and you may spend a day amid the huge trees in the spacious ranch-style restaurant.

Address: 3000 E Ray RD, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

10. 12 West Brewing Company (Gilbert)

This place is for beer lovers. You’ll really fall in love and definitely come back after your first visit. Even if you are not a fan of beer, there is something for you here too.

The 12 West Brewing of Gilbert, located in the Barnone building in Agritopia and housed in a flea market-style public space, is a new brewery that serves delectable craft brews and drafts.

12 West keeps it simple, counter-order, select from a good selection of hand-crafted brews, and enjoy.

The no-frills venue, which was founded by Brian McCormick and brewmaster Noel Garcia, has no brewing tanks because the proprietors brew their beer offsite in Garcia’s spacious garage.

However, the brewery’s walls are black and covered with beer-related posters. There are also long communal block tables for beer sampling that encourage contact.

There’s a cocktail bar for non-beer drinking people and excellent appetizers(try the buffalo cauliflower).

Although the brewery does not have a kitchen but you can also get pizza from a pizza restaurant located directly behind them for quick eats.

However, there are a dozen beers to select from, including Nelly Fonzarelly Pale Ale and Midnight Run Coffee Stout.

The service is 100 percent awesome, super friendly, and helpful.

12 West is open seven days a week.

Address: 3000 East Ray Road Barnone, building 6, suite 110, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

11. Regal Gilbert Stadium 14

Treat yourself and family to a show at the Regal Gilbert Stadium 14. The RG stadium is one of the best place to relax and enjoy a movie.

Especially in its sort of tucked back location, this theater has always been a place where you can go see a movie without the chaos of some of the bigger theaters. Moreover, you will also get a taste of luxury movie viewing.

The movie theater is popular with locals because it has spacious, comfortable reclining seats with enormous arms that are positioned in wide aisles, ensuring that all of its guests have ample room to walk by.

The theater complex is made up of many screens that show all the latest releases at a very low cost. The theater is spotless, and the personnel are friendly.

It is also easy to find shows and purchase tickets

Additionally, you will be able to choose your seats instead of having to get there hours early and stand waiting in a line just to get good seats (that’s MAJOR).

The prices are typically on par or below other theaters.

Address: 1012 S Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

Planning a road trip around Arizona? Check out the list of things to do in Tombstone, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Buckeye!

12. Downtown Gilbert

You might be wrong if you think downtown Gilbert is only made up of residential blocks. You should include Downtown Gilbert In your bucket list.

Downtown Gilbert has created a fun atmosphere for activities for a fun family night out. From restaurants for breakfast to dinner and even dessert, the restaurants are great for an adult night out or a fun time for a family with kids.

Joe’s Real BBQ, Hale Centre Theatre, and Agritopia are just a few of the must-see attractions in Gilbert’s Heritage District, which have been around for 30 years.

The Farmer’s Market on Sundays, however, is the most interesting feature of Downtown Gilbert.

Hundreds of vendors and small enterprises converge on this location to sell their wares.

From organic farm food to freshly baked bread, handcrafted sauces, and seasonal veggies and fruits, you’ll find it all here

It has grown throughout time to include a diverse range of restaurants, theaters, and attractions.

Address: Gilbert, AZ, USA

13. Mulligan’s Grill

Mulligan’s grill is one of the best American grill/bar restaurants and is known for its wonderful array of truly American meals.

Located in the Western Skies Golf Club, the atmosphere is very bar-like, but it nicely accommodates families or couples.

While you don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy a relaxing Sunday brunch at Mulligan’s Grill, you can always play a game of golf.

The menu item names are also of golf references, but even if you know nothing about golf, you can figure out the menu.

You might have to wait to get into the restaurant on the weekends, but the food is well worth the wait.

And the chickens? The chickens are always juicy and well marinated, and the menu has enough options to feed almost anyone and everyone at your party.

Enjoy their all-time favorite Green Chile Bacon Burger or Green Chile and Mushroom Burger Wrap with crispy, handmade chips on the side.

The staff here are incredibly nice and dedicated to servicing you and Mulligan’s.

In summary, Mulligan’s Grill will provide you with outstanding food, beverages, and service throughout the day.

They also have 14 HDTVs, so you won’t miss any important games.

Head up to the bar and grab a drink. You will love every bit of this place.

Address: 1245 E Warner Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

14. Freestone Park

Freestone Park, the Town of Gilbert’s first large District Park, has something for everyone.

In short, it is the perfect mix of beautiful waterfalls; friendly ducks to feed, playgrounds for all age levels and a “mini’ theme park with a train that takes you for a 3/4 mile ride around the place.

Besides, visitors may enjoy a carnival experience on the 120-acre property, which includes a colorful carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a miniature train.

Adults can enjoy the park’s amphitheater, softball fields, tennis, volleyball, and basketball facilities, which are mostly for youngsters

A lovely place to take the whole family. It’s so big that your kids can run around without worrying about interrupting someone else.

Furthermore, if you have a valid fishing license, the park also features a 5-acre reclaimed water lake where you may spend the day fishing.

Plenty of little relaxing areas by the water if you just want to sit and talk or enjoy the scenery.

You can also have a quiet BBQ with your family while taking in the natural beauty of the park.

It is a great place to take pictures and capture every beautiful moment.

Address: 1045 E Juniper Ave, Gilbert, AZ 85234, United States

15. St Anne Roman Catholic Parish Gilbert

In terms of prayer and devotion, the Roman Catholic Church of St.Anne serves to bring together Gilbert’s diverse multi-cultural populations.

The church is one of the few conservative churches left in Arizona.

It is the largest registered congregation in the United States. It was established in 1936 by a group of volunteers and restored in 1943 when it became St.Anne Parish.

The exterior of the Church is very “Southwest.” The interior too is very attractive.

Similarly, the priests know what true reverence and serving in holiness means!

The church has a seating capacity of 220 people, so it’s quite large.

It also houses one of only eight exact reproductions of Michelangelo’s Pieta in the world, which draws visitors from all over the globe.

And the Latin mass? It is so beautiful.

Finally, if you come on a Sunday, you can savor a delectable and reasonably priced breakfast served by the church.

If you are looking for the REAL thing, St. Anne is the parish to be celebrating the REAL Presences!.

Address: 440 E Elliot Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234, United States

16. Gilbert Central Trail System

The Gilbert Central Trail System dubbed a “bicycle-friendly town,” includes 54 miles of trails that meander alongside canals and horseback riding courses.

The trail system is made up of three trails: the Marathon, Santan Vista, and Heritage Trails, which all run from north to south, connecting Gilbert’s canal systems and parks.

It also has a number of picnic areas and pocket parks, as well as a number of interesting monuments.

Take a walk here with your lover or family. It’s worth it!

Address: Gilbert, AZ, USA

17. The Boardhub, Gilbert

The boardhub provides wakeboarding lessons to varying levels of riders.

The lesson is available for riders of all skill level

The boardhub can meet your demands whether you want to learn to wakeboard, enjoy a new adventure with your family, or take your wakeboarding to a higher level.

The intent of the boardhub is to facilitate a great learning experience with professional instruction to help you reach and exceed your goals, no matter what the circumstances.

You should, however, add this to your list if you want to experience the best boardhub while in Gilbert.

Address: Gilbert, AZ, USA

18. Flipside

FlipSide Entertainment offers a wide range of family entertainment and excitement for all ages.

The place is quite spacious with a 50,000-square-foot facility coupled with 28 modern and clean bowling lanes. There’s something for everyone, really.

The area is well-kept and features a range of fascinating arcade activities, including Laser Tag, Crash Pods, Blast Pad, billiards, video games, and the ever-popular Laser Maze.

Counter-Assault, FlipSide’s two-story state-of-the-art Laser Tag arena, is perfect for fast-paced family fun.

You can take a spin on the Crash Pods, which offer 360 degrees of bumper car mayhem.

Your kids can also explore the Blast Pad, which is an expansive kid zone with padded floors.

There are at least 60 games to keep everyone entertained.

Treat everyone to some of FlipSide’s delectable pizza and French fries to cap off a fantastic day!

FlipSide is a terrific place for the whole family to have a good time. Indeed!

Address: 4874 S Val Vista Dr, Gilbert, AZ 85298, United States

19. Right On Target Clay Guides of Arizona

Aside from the usual things you would want to do as a tourist. Why not switch things up a bit and do some unusual but interesting things?

What about trying your hand at clay shooting for a change of pace from the regular tourist traps?

Furthermore, for $100/hour (check prices), the family will have the time of their lives with a one-hour session that includes all equipment (25 shells, shotgun, 25 targets, and all safety equipment).

You will spend one of your most impressive days reviewing the handling & operation of a variety of handguns. You will build and have improved confidence in possessing a firearm.

Greg and Bob, the very experienced owners (who always emphasize safety first), will guide you through each distinct clay pigeon set up and will be ready to assist you in any way you need,

In short, the best part is whether you are an expert or a beginner, you will have such a filled day but must be at least 15 years old.

Address:  3960 N Usery Pass Rd Mesa, AZ 85207 & 5060 W. Skeet St. Phoenix, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

20. Cosmo Dog Park

As man’s best friend, Dogs deserved to be treated right and even given special treats sometimes.

Cosmo Dog Park is a haven for dogs where they can run around without being confined by a leash. It’s a popular 17-acre (0.026-square-mile) park in Gilbert that was created specifically for dogs.

This is a great place to take your dogs and let them socialize and get their energy out.

It’s set on a large open park space with hills on either side to seclude it from the surrounding roads.

There are several large enclosures that make it easy to choose how you want to play with your dog. They have an area for big dogs, little dogs, and timid dogs, which is very much appreciated.

The grass is very well kept. There is also a large pond designed specifically for dogs to play in, which is fantastic.

Asides from the swim in the lake, there are also multiple doggie drinking fountains, an obstacle course, wash stations, tables, benches, and paths.

Most people take care of their dog’s messes, but some don’t. There are a few dog washing stations as well, so bring your shampoo and towels.

Great walking trails around the park, and there’s more. There’s even a basketball court to shoot hoops, a kids’ playground area that’s on the far side, far away from the dog area.

There’s also a cement stadium and more. You have to go check it out, it’s a great place.

Address: 2502 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

21. Southeast Regional Library Gilbert

How does it feel to relax in the comfortable chairs in front of the lakeside windows and read to one’s heart’s content?

If you need to catch up on your reading, the Southeast Regional Library is one of the best locations to go.

It’s a massive complex on the crossroads of Greenfield and Guadalupe Road, directly next to the Riparian Preserve at the Water Ranch.

In addition, they have books and journals, computers and printers, and whatever else you would require.

A stroll around the lake, perhaps? Make it happen. A bird-watching excursion? It’s right there.

The high-tech library has about 170,700 books in various formats, as well as computers with internet access. There are also public computers for word processing, programming with no age limit, and activity computers for youngsters.

A star sighting? On Friday nights, the observatory is open. There’s a lot to do at the library.

Address: 775 N Greenfield Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234, United States

22. 9/11 Memorial-Gilbert

9/11 is a surreal event and this piece of one of the towers brings you something you can see and touch.

The Gilbert 9/11 Memorial celebrates and recalls the numerous people who died in America’s worst terrorist attack. The memorial is located near the Arizona State Capitol in Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza.

It has a beam from the North Tower of the World Trade Center slanted on the floor so that even small children may reach and touch the artifacts.

It is flanked by four stone walls with the names of those who died carved on them.

The monument is spherical in shape and has a flat inclined metal ring around it. The ring is etched with written messages by cutting each letter through the metal, allowing the statements to be projected onto the monument’s concrete base.

Address: 50 E Civic Center Dr, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

23. El Bella Day Spa-Gilbert

You want to bring out that hidden beauty in you or maybe you want celebrity-grade beauty services. El Bella Spa is more than capable of achieving that.

Don’t worry, it doesn’t matter if you are a woman or man; you are covered.

Their opulent facilities offer a full range of beauty services for both men and women, all of which are tailored to ensure maximum comfort and discretion.

Massages, facials, manicures and pedicures, body polishes, haircuts and styles, and other services are provided by their experienced personnel.

The salon is clean, friendly, and very reasonably priced! One-stop shopping for all of your beauty needs.

Make an appointment and take advantage of one of their exclusive beauty packages.

Address: 3303 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85297, United States

24. Topgolf

Topgolf is a large entertainment complex with a high-tech driving range and a posh lounge where clients may enjoy drinks and games.

This place is awesome, great service, it’s kind of like bowling but with golf.

You can also get drinks and food served right at your box.

Furthermore, your family or friends can enjoy limitless play and a wonderful lunch before or after your game for a very cheap fee.

It’s a great day out for everyone; you can hit balls and score points or not, depending on your mood.

Super fun atmosphere with well-lit targets at different distances and ball tracer on big tv showing your ball flight.

Remember to remind the youngsters about the fantastic inject your own doughnuts (with cream or jam)!

Address: 1689 S Santan Village Pkwy, Gilbert, AZ 85295, United States

25. Phoenix Escape Room

Do you love puzzles? Something to charge your brain?

Here’s one for you.

The Phoenix Escape Room offers a challenging, interactive game that will stretch your imagination and mind.

During your adventure, you will find yourselves flexing your brain and looking in nooks and crannies you had never even noticed.

Furthermore, you have to find the hidden objects and then work out the clues to solve the puzzles that will earn you your freedom. But you also have only a limited amount of time, so you have to be quick!

Spending time in Escape Room with family or friends will enable you to learn a lot more about everybody! Are you up for the challenge?

Address: 1422 W Warner Rd, Space A-102, Gilbert, AZ 85233

Start planning your trip to Gilbert, Arizona

This town, being a unique blend of modern and traditional elements which has resulted in a broad selection of attractions is really a good place to be.

It has so many things to do that you’ll feel overwhelmed, yet satisfied. Take this list with, include them in your bucket list when heading to Gilbert and tick them off.