The 27 Best Things to Do in Gilbert, AZ

If you are traveling to the greater Phoenix or Scottsdale, Arizona areas, do not forget to visit Gilbert, Arizona as well. Downtown Gilbert is a small town southeast of Phoenix, and it has a lot to do, including numerous family-friendly activities. As an alternative to staying in one of the nearby bigger cities, deciding to spend your holiday at a vacation rental in Gilbert is a great way to unwind, relax, and get off the beaten track. 

Regardless of whether you are swinging by Chandler, Mesa, or one of the other surrounding cities afterward, don’t forget to take a look at a few of the top activities to do in Gilbert, AZ. Here is a travel guide you can use to get ready to enjoy your trip to this friendly community. 

Take a look at a few of the top things to do for a fun day below!

 

1. Visit the Gilbert Historical Museum

One of the top attractions at the Gilbert Historical Museum. This is a museum that is dedicated to teaching people about the history of the town. The building used to be the local Gilbert Elementary School, but it serves as a museum with lots of documents, photographs, and other educational exhibits. 

The exhibits rotate from time to time, so check this historic site often to see what is on display. Since the displays change, it’s a great place to visit year-round since you’ll most likely get the chance to view different exhibits.

 

2. Go For a Walk in Downtown Gilbert

Sometimes, the best way to experience the local area is to simply go for a walk in the downtown region. Even though Gilbert is relatively small, there is always something fun going on. You can take a look at a few street performers, marvel at the history of the area, and keep your eyes open for a few antique cars at the go by. 

Why not go for a stroll in the downtown area to see if anything is happening?

 

3. Swing By the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

If you feel like checking out some of the local wildlife, then you should swing by The Riparian Preserve. There are hundreds of species of birds, animals, and plants that live in the area, and there are several miles of hiking trails as well. You can also take a look at different vegetation zones, visit a paleontology dig site, and take advantage of some educational programs. 

This is a great activity for families with children as well.

 

4. Take Advantage of the Top Vacation Rentals

If you are looking for a vacation rental that can host your family members and friends, then take advantage of this rental property in Gilbert. The house is almost 3,000 square feet, it can comfortably sleep eight people, and it has three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. There is also a den with a queen hideaway, a private entrance, a jacuzzi, and operated appliances. 

This is the perfect place to stay during your visit to Gilbert.

 

5. Visit the Gilbert Temple

The Gilbert Temple is a part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but even if you are not practicing, you should still check out the amazing architecture. There are some amazing stained glass windows to view, and it used to serve as a refuge for weary travelers and refugees. 

You may even learn a bit of the history behind the church.

 

6. Visit St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Church

You do not need to be a practicing Catholic to visit this church. St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Church is one of the most beautiful buildings in Gilbert, as it contains exquisite paintings, beautiful windows, and towering ceilings. If you really want to get the full experience, consider attending one of the masses.

 You will see why so many people have fallen in love with this church.

 

7. Get Fresh Food at the Gilbert Farmers Market

If you find yourself in the downtown area, visit the Gilbert Farmers Market. You can find the farmers’ market very close to the special water tower, and you can take advantage of some fresh fruit and vegetables from some local farmers. 

It is open almost every Saturday morning, and there are dozens of vendors that come to each session.

 

8. Catch a Show at the Hale Centre Theater

If you are looking for a bit of culture, you may want to catch a show at the nearby Hale Centre Theater. This is a family-oriented location that has a lot of shows, many of them coming from Broadway. 

There are lots of educational programs as well, so you may want to take a look at the calendar to see what is on tap during your visit.

 

9. Check Out Liberty Market

If you visit the old town area, you will find Liberty Market. This is a cafe that has a wide variety of awards, and it is a great place to go for breakfast or lunch. You can choose from a variety of wines, coffees, cocktails, sandwiches, and more. 

It is open every day, and it has a local menu that is second to none.

 

10. Get a Bite at Joe’s Farm Grill

If you are looking for some shopping and dining opportunities, then you should check out the Joe’s Farm Grill. You can enjoy some oysters, steamed seafood, and delicious libations. 

All of the ingredients are local, and the restaurant is committed to supporting local farmers and fishers.

 

11. Go Clay Pigeon Shooting

If you are looking for something a bit different, you may want to go clay pigeon shooting! For example, Right on Target Clay Guide is a great opportunity. You can sign up for a lesson if you have never done this before, or you can simply head out to the range for some family fun.

This is an amazing opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new.

 

If you are looking for a park with a lot of outdoor recreational activities, this is the place to go. There is a miniature amusement park with a lot of rides, a playground dedicated to kids, and numerous athletic fields for those who love to play sports. 

There are even fishing opportunities available.

 

13. Get a Beer at the XII West Brewing Company

If you are of age, this is definitely one of the top places to go. You can find this 12 West Brewing Company located in the Barnone building, and this is a relatively new brewery that offers some delicious craft beers. 

All of the beers are made right there on-site, and the brewery has some interesting decor as well.

 

14. Go For an Outdoor Adventure

If you are in the mood for some outdoor activities, then you should take a closer look at the opportunities from AOA Adventures. This is a great opportunity to try some biking, do some hiking, or even go for an overnight trip.

 You can enjoy a beautiful bonfire, a freshly grilled meal, and some quality time outside.

 

15. Enjoy Some Fresh Fish

Are you in the mood for some delicious seafood? If so, you may want to check out Mulligan’s Grill. There is nothing like this restaurant, and they even have an all-you-can-eat deal on Friday! 

This is not an opportunity you want to pass up, but make sure you bring your appetite if you really want to finish the fish!

 

16. Take the Kids to Bounce U

Do you think the kids have some energy they need to burn off? If so, Bounce U is the place to go. There are plenty of activities for both kids and adults, with each room presenting some new fun. 

Opportunities include climbing, shooting, sliding, and more! Best of all, the staff is incredibly patient, and they will make sure everyone has a fun time.

 

17. Visit the Local TopGolf

It is not exactly a secret that TopGolf has become incredibly popular recently, and there is even one in Gilbert, Arizona. You do not have to be good at golf to play TopGolf, and this is also a great way to learn how to swing a golf club. 

You can get a delicious meal, enjoy a fresh beer, and spend some time in the shade while still being outside.

 

18. Check Out the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory

The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory is not that far from the wreck Harry and preserve. This observatory, owned by the town of Gilbert, is open on Friday and Saturday nights. Because there’s not a lot of light pollution, you can really get a good look at the stars. 

Swing by for one of the astronomy talks to learn more about the skies.

 

19. Check Out a Local Farm

Do you want to see where all of your delicious food comes from? If so, you may want to visit one of the local farms. If you are in the mood for some educational experiences, visit Sup Urban Farm.

This is a great opportunity for people to learn about gardening, sustainability, and how to take care of animals.

 

20. Get a Tour

Do you want to learn more about the local Arizona area? If so, you should sign up for a tour at Arizona Frontiers. They always cater the tour to meet your needs, and they will travel as quickly or as slowly as you would like. 

This is a great way to learn about the surrounding area.

 

21. Play a Round at the Western Skies Golf Club

If you are in the mood to play some golf, this is one of the top golf clubs in the local area. The course is always well-taken care of, the weather is usually beautiful, and the course is appropriately challenging. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be an experienced golfer, you can hit the driving range to work on your skills.

Nearby Fountain Hills golf courses are also great options if you’d like to check out, even more, golfing hot spots in the area.

 

22. Try To Escape!

If you are in the mood for a challenge, check out the local Escape Room. This is an interactive game meant for a group. You will work together to try to get out of the room before the timer expires.

There are lots of clues and hidden objects that can help you figure out how to escape.

 

23. Visit the Local Dog Park

If you have a furry friend with you, you should check out the local dog park! Cosmo Dog Park is situated on the edge of the lake, so there is a nice beach for you to kick back and relax.

Consider showing up for some nice dog therapy!

 

24. Get Out on the Water

If you want to cool off, one of the best ways to do so is to get out on the water. One of the best opportunities is The Boardhub, which is perfect for both beginners and experienced wakeboarders. 

Even if you have never tried this activity before, you can sign up for a lesson from one of the teachers. This is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Gilbert!

 

25. Play Some Mini Golf

If you are in the mood to play some mini-golf, one of the best places to do so is the Golfland Sunsplash. This is a great way to have some fun, cool off, and get the kids to expend some energy. 

Even more than just mini-golf, Golfland Sunsplash is an entire recreational center full of a waterpark, amusement park, and plenty of other activities to keep you and your family entertained.

 

26. Visit Veterans Oasis Park

This is an amazing nature center with a variety of exhibits that will help you learn about the area. You can see some amazing plants and animals, like the sunset, and get in a bit of exercise. 

Do some bird-watching and simply unwind from your day in town at the Veterans Oasis Park.

 

27. Shop Until You Drop

If you are in the mood to do some shopping, you may want to take a closer look at SanTan Village. This is an open-air shopping mall that has dozens of amazing retailers that all have something different. If you are looking for a gift shop, there is a good chance you will find it here. 

You can also check out the nearby skate park and BBQ shops!