20 Fun Things to Do in Gilbert Arizona: A Complete Guide

Looking for fun things to do in Gilbert, Arizona? I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a local or a snowbird here for the season, Gilbert is a treasure trove of activities. Located just southeast of Phoenix, it’s a city brimming with culture, adventure, and fun waiting to be explored!

Imagine diving into a world where history and modern leisure combine. It offers something fun for all ages, whether you’re with the family or embarking on a solo escapade to cure your wanderlust.

Ready to be hooked by charm? Join me as I guide you through the best of what Gilbert has to offer. From stargazing at the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory to family entertainment at Topgolf and the intrigue of Paradox Escape Room, there’s plenty to explore.

Let’s unwrap the tapestry of experiences waiting in this vibrant town!

Experience Gilbert’s Rich History and Culture

Step back in time with some things to do in Gilbert which highlights its heritage, blending educational insight with sheer architectural splendor. Revel in the storied past of a town that takes pride in preserving its roots, giving you a peek into yesterday while strolling through today.

Gilbert Historical Museum: A Journey Through Time

Ever been to a place where every nook tells a story? The Gilbert Historical Museum, housed in the former Gilbert Elementary School, is just that spot—a historical hub breathing life into the town’s history.

With exhibits rotating faster than a chef at a pizza parlor, there’s always something fresh to check out. Trust me, you’ll want to visit more than once to catch the full spectrum of tales this museum has to share!

There are also special events, like art and quilting shows featuring local artists, and the ever-popular breakfast with Santa for the kids. It’s a great place to learn about history while also supporting the local community!

Admission is just $6 for adults and $3 for children, making it a budget-friendly activity as well! You can check out this historical museum Tuesday – Saturday from 9am – 4pm.

Hale Centre Theatre: Live Performances and Artistic Excellence

When the Hale Centre Theatre’s curtains rise, expect to be whisked away to a world of imagination. Nestled in the heart of downtown Gilbert, this local jewel shines with top-notch family entertainment.

The unique circle of 350 chairs surrounding a center stage ensures there isn’t a bad seat in the house, so every gasp, giggle, and round of applause is shared up close and personal.

This theatre has the golden ticket for an artistic fix that impresses both old and young. You’ll find both concerts and shows to explore, with a huge variety of genres and styles!

Tickets usually range from $30 – $60 per person, depending on the show or concert you select. Showings are typically at 4pm or 7:30pm, so you can adapt for your kid’s bedtime or enjoy a date night out with dinner beforehand!

Most shows run for 1-2 weeks at a time, so I highly recommend buying tickets early if it’s something you really want to see! Thankfully, the Hale Center advertises shows up to a year in advance so you can plan accordingly.

St Anne’s Roman Catholic Church: Architectural Beauty and Serenity

Whether you’re devout or just appreciate fine architecture, St Anne’s Roman Catholic Church stands as a beacon of beauty and tranquility.

Step inside and feel the hush settle over you as you gaze upon the grandeur of soaring ceilings and stained glass. Mass or no mass, you’ll leave feeling a touch more peaceful than when you arrived—mark my words.

The church is typically open daily from 6am to 9pm, and there are masses scheduled every day at different times. Make sure to check out their schedule as it changes often, whether your intent is to attend or avoid a scheduled service.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Escapes

Crisp air, blue skies, and the great outdoors – I’m calling all nature lovers and thrill-seekers for some epic escapades! Time to lace up those hiking boots, fill up the water bottles, and dive into some outdoor things to do in Gilbert, Arizona.

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch: A Wildlife Sanctuary

Ever wondered where the wild things frolic? The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is where they call home, with a park situated perfectly for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Alongside their outdoor recreational activities, they have educational programs to boot. Whether you’re a pro with binoculars or a curious newbie, this sanctuary is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature.

This 110-acre preserve is filled with 4.5 miles of multi-use trails so you can hike, bike, horseback ride, or even kayak to explore the beauty of nature (dogs on a leash are welcome too). Note that parking is limited, so don’t plan on trailering in horses, as you won’t find suitable parking arrangements nearby.

There’s even a play area for the kids! Fishing at one of the lakes on property is possible as well (but you’ll need a license) so there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

While very limited, there are 3 overnight camping sites available here as well, if you’d like to enjoy a truly peaceful weekend in nature (but I highly recommend you reserve well in advance due to the limited availability). Note that fees are reduced for local residents so bring that Gilbert Arizona ID along!

There is also an outdoor amphitheater, lawn area, pavilions, and a mock excavation site you can rent for various activities and get-togethers.

For day trippers, the park is open from 5:30am to 10pm daily (or dawn to dusk depending on the season). Admission is free, and the on-site rentals range from $30 – $60 usually, depending if you’re a resident or not and the size of the space.

Veterans Oasis Park: An Urban Oasis for Recreation

A slice of serenity in the urban jungle, that’s Veterans Oasis Park for you. It’s technically located in Chandler, Arizona, but that’s only about 15 minutes from Gilbert so it’s still close enough to be convenient!

Much like Riparian, this park has 113 acres filled with multi-use trails and beautiful sights to see. The trails are suitable for horseback riding and hiking (and leashed dogs are allowed as well). There is no parking for horse trailers on site, so if you plan to horseback ride, you must ride in from elsewhere.

A fun “solar system walk” is built into the trails, for a self-guided tour that displays monuments based on a solar system scale. There’s also a 5-acre lake on site which is open to fishing (permit required) for bass, blue gill, trout, and perch, but note that it does not allow canoes, kayaks, or other personal watercraft on it.

The park is open daily from 6am to 10:30pm. Parking is ample and admission is free. There are lots of picnic tables and some grills on site that you can use free of charge as well.

There are no overnight facilities, but there are 5 pavilions of varying sizes and an amphitheater on site that you can reserve up to a year in advance (or 90 days for non-residents).

Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory: Stargazing and Exploration

Imagine a twinkling night sky draped over you like a celestial blanket—that’s what the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory serves. Stargazers, assemble here for a rendezvous with the stars that’s nothing short of magical. You won’t want to miss this spot’s gateway to the cosmos.

This observatory is actually located inside the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch I mentioned earlier, on the western side near the library. However, this attraction isn’t open until the lights go down – starting at sunset and staying open until 9:30pm on Friday and Saturday nights.

Other days of the week (Sunday – Thursday) you can arrange for a private viewing for up to 6 people for $40. Otherwise, public admission is free, though they do suggest a donation of $5 per adult and $3 per child, so I always try to support them.

Staff from the East Valley Astronomy Club are on hand to point out planets and other celestial highlights to check out. Note that no flashlights or phones are allowed during your visit (so you can see better in the dark), and there’s no flash photography allowed for the same reason.

Freestone District Park: Activities for Everyone

Family reunions, picnics, or a solo day out—Freestone District Park has got you covered!

There’s a 5-acre lake stocked for fishing (permits required) for catfish, sunfish or trout, depending on the season. You can also find frisbee golf, softball fields, and volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts to get your game on!

I think this park is your best option for things to do with kids in the Gilbert area, as it has an expansive playground area, and a skate park for your older kiddos too. Add in a miniature railroad, carousel, Ferris wheel, and some batting cages, and you’ll never be bored.

This 88-acre park has tons of parking, and on site facilities like restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and reservable pavilions for larger groups.

You can visit daily from 5:30am to 10pm (though the skate park closes earlier at 9pm). Admission is free (though the pavilions do require a fee if you want to reserve one).

Leisure and Entertainment Hotspots

Gilbert’s not all sunshine and hiking trails—though they’ve got plenty of both—it’s also a haven for those looking to indulge in some leisure and downtime.

So, let’s hop into some of the leisure and entertainment things to do in Gilbert, Arizona.

Topgolf: Swing into Fun and Games

Think you can swing it? Topgolf in Gilbert invites you to have a go, whether you’re golf’s next big thing or you don’t know a putter from a driver. Feel free to bring your own clubs, or use some of theirs – no pressure at all!

Worried about that Arizona heat? Well, don’t! The hitting bays are climate controlled for maximum comfort and fun.

You can also snag a delicious meal, sip on a cold one, and enjoy the thrill of the game without the pressure of the pros watching over your shoulder. I loved the aptly named Sand Trap Martini, and that hot honey pepperoni flatbread really hit the spot!

This is one of those activities that’s fun and relaxing solo, but you can also come with a group of friends! Each bay accommodates up to 6 people.

Topgolf is open 7 days a week, usually from 9am to Midnight (sometimes even later). Prices range from about $40 – $60 per hour, based on the day and time (though I highly recommend taking advantage of half price Tuesday if you can for some deals)!

Paradox Escape Room: Challenge Your Wits and Teamwork

Got a knack for solving mysteries? Paradox Escape Room in Gilbert is your arena. Step into an interactive game that’s part puzzle, part heart-pounding adventure. Scour for hidden objects, decode the cryptic, and escape before time’s up.

Each room is designed for 2-10 people (not every room can hold 10, just as a side note) and lasts about 1 hour. So, round up your crew—it’s showtime, and the clock is ticking!

Choose from 3 different adventures: Casino Heist (infiltrating a casino), Caskworks & Capone (featuring bootlegging and Al Capone), and The Collector (centered around a serial killer), each with a unique story to tell, puzzles to solve, and a daring escape to perform!

Games are $30 per person and if you have a smaller party and don’t want to be paired with strangers, you can pay an additional $35 for a private booking.

Most days, Paradox is catering to the after-work crowd, with opening hours from 5-8pm. On the weekends, you can usually get in starting at Noon.

Regal Gilbert Stadium 14: Catch the Latest Flicks

A fan of the silver screen? Regal Gilbert Stadium 14 is where the latest blockbusters come to play. Pull out the popcorn and settle into plush seats for a cinematic experience that’s got the whole town talking. With screens aplenty, you’re sure to find the flick that tickles your fancy.

Now, unfortunately this location is not one that has a bar, so you’ll have to relegate yourself to the classic combination of soda, popcorn, and candy. That’s fine, though, you’re really here for the movie, right?

This is another activity that’s easy to roll solo, but you can also bring the family and friends for a fun day out. Located in Gilbert Town Square, this theater is near lots of dining options that you can hit up before or after the film. That includes at least 6 breweries, a winery, and taco, pizza, BBQ, coffee, and ice cream shops too!

Tickets range in price, with “value days” being as low as $6! Popular movies and showtimes will have you closer to $15, though, so definitely try to plan in advance if you want to save a few bucks.

Western Skies Golf Club: Tee Off in Style

Now, unlike Topgolf, which is just a pseudo driving range, Western Skies Golf Club has an entire beautiful public course to enjoy. Whether you’re the next Tiger Woods or just looking to take a solid swing at a good time, this course promises a day well-spent under the wide Arizona sky.

There is a practice facility on site, where you can practice in a controlled but realistic setting before heading out to the actual course.

This course is gorgeous, with mountain views and scenic landscaping that will make your jaw drop as you drive through all 18 holes. It’s suitable for solo players, but equally fun for groups if you want to bring your friends.

Holes are par 3 or par 5, for a nice mix of challenge. Fees range from $42 to $74 per player, depending on the dates and times selected. This does include a golf cart, though! Expect to pay an additional $20 fee for the cart if you’re riding solo.

After the game, cool off at the on-site bar and grill and watch even more golf on the 14 large screen TV’s located throughout. I don’t think there’s anything better than an ice cold beer and a burger after a day on the course.

So grab those clubs, and let’s hit the greens—the fairways await!

Culinary Delights and Local Eateries

When it comes to tantalizing your taste buds, Gilbert has it all! This town brings the table to the farm and the baking to the streets.

For those who love a good culinary adventure, stick with me as I guide you through the most delicious things to do in Gilbert that will leave your palate singing praises.

Gilbert Farmers Market: The Freshest Local Produce

Picture this: a Saturday morning filled with the sun on your back and a bounty of the freshest produce around. That’s the Gilbert Farmers Market for you! Every weekend year round, the place is bustling with 100 vendors, laying out a rainbow spread of fresh fruit and vegetables.

My advice? Get there early, beat the crowd, and bag the best picks of the day! You’ll find fresh eggs, meats, cheeses, breads, desserts, spices, coffee, and sauces to name a few. I’ll be loading up on mini Bundt cakes, kombucha, and all sorts of pickles!

Mingling with friendly faces and scoring some homemade treats, plus live entertainment to tap your foot to—it’s clear why this market is the darling of downtown Gilbert. It’s a free-entry paradise where you can treat your dog to a day out too!

You’ll find the farmer’s market open from 7-11am in the summer and 8am – 12pm in the winter months. There is ample parking behind the market, in an open air lot or a nearby garage. Most vendors do take credit cards, but I recommend bringing along some cash just in case.

Joe’s Farm Grill: Farm-to-Table Dining Experience

If you’re casting about for shopping and dining all wrapped into one, Joe’s Farm Grill has got you covered. This place isn’t just slinging meals; it’s a full-on sensory experience with the clink of glasses.

The sizzle from the grill serenades you as you dine. This restaurant is committed to the farm-to-table ethos, where every forkful speaks volumes of the land and hands that nurtured it. If that doesn’t convince you, they’ve also been on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, so you know it’s gotta be the real deal!

The place has class, comfort, and the conviction of sustainable dining—you can feel good about what you’re eating, knowing you’re backing the heart and soul of Gilbert’s farmland. Takeout is also available, if you want to bring a bite home instead!

I can’t say no to the crispy fried zucchini slices, but the gouda garlic bacon burger is my absolute favorite pick. I’m not a morning person so I’ve never tried the breakfast (it is served all day, but I still prefer a burger for dinner), but I’m sure it’s delicious as well!

There are no cocktails, but the incredible selection of milkshakes will make sure you don’t miss them. I’m still thinking about the peach mango strawberry one!

You can visit Joe’s any day, from 7:30am to 9pm to get your grub on!

Liberty Market: A Gastronomic Gem in Downtown Gilbert

Liberty Market is a treasure trove, a haven, nestled in downtown Gilbert’s heart, and it’s actually a sister restaurant to Joe’s! Now, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill café; this joint has its history in its walls and innovation on its plates.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an indulgent meal, the exquisite blend of light American fare and robust flavors wins rave reviews. Plus, their coffee—oh, their coffee is the morning hug we all need.

In my opinion, Liberty Market is a must-stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s the enthusiasm for locally focused cuisine, neatly plated and served with a smile, that turns first-timers into regulars.

My go-to is the roasted beet salad, with creamy cheese and tangy balsamic for the perfect savory bite. If there’s room for dessert, I’ll never say no to the fresh raspberry vanilla panna cotta.

Unlike Joe’s, Liberty Market also has beer, wine, cocktails, and mocktails on the menu, so if you want an adult beverage this is the place to be.

Check them out daily from 8am – 9pm when you’re looking to try a new place to eat in Gilbert!

Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions

Now, if you’ve got kids in tow or you’re just a big kid at heart, there are lots of family-friendly things to do in Gilbert, Arizona.

You’ll find no shortage of memories to make, from the sanctuary of the great outdoors to the thrill of a well-struck golf ball, this place serves up family fun all day long!

Urban Air: Jump and Play for Kids of All Ages

Imagine rooms filled with fun where kids and adults alike leave gravity at the door. Urban Air in Gilbert is that place where energy burns brighter, and laughter rings louder. Trust me, the enthusiasm is as infectious as the common cold in kindergarten—only way more welcome!

With climbing walls, obstacle courses, laser tag, go karts, arcade machines, ropes course, playground, trampolines, and more, it’s the place to be for birthday bashes or just a spontaneous day of play! You can also rent it out for birthday parties, team building events, and more!

When it comes to keeping the chaos controlled, the staff are like the cool aunts and uncles you wish you had, ensuring a jolly good time for all!

There are some quick eats on site, mostly featuring ICEE and puffy pizzas, so I personally usually go elsewhere for grub after a day of fun. But, we all know your kids may have other ideas!

You can visit Urban Air every day from 10am to 9pm, with Friday and Saturday nights staying open til 10pm. Tickets range from $26 to $43 for a day pass, and there are bundles available at a discount. I should also note, you have to buy socks to wear there at $3.50 a pair (no exceptions)!

Mini Golf: Putt-Putt Fun for Everyone

Now, for those of you harboring the soul of a golfer with a whimsical twist, imagine teeing off in a world of neon and whimsy at 3D Mini Golf. This is an 18-hole adventure that wraps you up in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Gilbert’s 3D Mini Golf is a feast for the senses, providing a light-hearted break from the humdrum of the everyday. So grab your mini club, choose your favorite neon colored ball, and get ready for some laughs! Pro tip: wear some white clothing (even just an accent design) for an extra fun time under the black lights!

You’ll journey under the sea, through a magical forest, and even have a close encounter with the third kind! You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy mini golf either – just a kid at heart!

This mini golf extravaganza is located in the Cooper Marketplace strip mall, so there’s lots of dining options nearby for after your game. I like to swing by and enjoy a shaved ice from Bahama Buck’s, but there are plenty of full meals to try as well.

You can check out 3D mini golf’s Gilbert location from 12pm – 9pm daily, with Friday and Saturday nights staying open until 10pm. Tickets are $13 for ages 10+, but I love the BOGO date night deal on Thursdays after 5pm!

Unique Shopping and Marketplaces

If what you’re after is the charm of retail therapy, then Gilbert’s got your bag. The streets here are an enchanting medley of unique shops where each door beckons with the promise of something special.

It’s the kind of town that invites you to wander, explore, and yes, even find those perfect gifts to brag about back home. So, let me tell you about where to go if shopping is one of the things you want to do in Gilbert for fun!

SanTan Village: An Open-Air Shopping Haven

Picture this, an open-air shopping oasis smack dab in the heart of downtown Gilbert. That’s SanTan Village for you. A leisurely stroll through this haven nets you brand-name bargains and gustatory delights from some seriously tasty spots! 

Let’s talk variety; from Macy’s glamour to the athletic sheen of Lululemon, SanTan Village has your style needs covered in one beautiful, balmy location. Whether you’re on a spree or just window shopping, this place has a little something for everyone!

There’s also a movie theater, escape room, and an indoor play zone for the kids, so you can make a day of it!

Check out SanTan Village daily from 10am to 6pm (though individual store hours can sometimes vary). There is plenty of parking on site as well! Since it’s open air, it’s easy to move around as needed if you don’t want to walk the whole day.

Shop Until You Drop: Gilbert’s Best Retail Therapy

Are you hunting for that one-of-a-kind gift shop or just want to get away from the mega corporations for a day? Then you’ll want to check out Gilbert’s Heritage District for unique shopping and dining experiences!

Browse boutiques filled with art, antiques, plants, candles, retro candy, and more! Then, visit the arcade bar for games and drinks galore, or grab takeaway from Topo for an amazing burrito experience.

Of course, there’s so many more eclectic and fun places to experience and explore, all right in the heart of downtown. So, make a day of it, have some fun, and bring some goodies home as well!

There are two free parking garages nearby, as well as open air spaces. If you drive a scooter or ride a bike instead, you’ll find spots for them too!

You may want to grab a map and plan your route (and perfect parking spot) ahead of time for convenience. Since this is a larger shopping area, the address info I’ve provided below is just for the central Discover Gilbert headquarters.

Specialized Tours and Local Insights

Ever feel like you’re missing out on those local secrets, those cozy corners only the residents know about? Well, buckle up because Gilbert has some hidden gems that are ripe for the revealing. If you’re looking for some fun local things to do in Gilbert, Arizona, I’ve got you covered!

Agritopia Farm: A Taste of Gilbert’s Agricultural Roots

In a town blooming with suburban sprawl, Agritopia Farm represents the arts of agriculture. It’s an urban farm stitching the past to the present. Dive into the heart of sustainability and get a good look at the circle of life in the plant world!

You can learn more about the world of agriculture, or sign up for a CSA to get a weekly fresh produce box. I love this, as I’ve found it encourages me to try new vegetables and explore new recipes I may not otherwise have tried! Though be warned, it can be a little pricey for what you get.

If you prefer, you can also get in on the community garden and get your green thumb on! There are plenty of events to explore as well, from farm fresh curated dinners to pop-up farmer’s markets and featured you-pick produce days, there’s always something to do.

Do you remember Joe’s Farm Grill I mentioned earlier? Yeah, Agritopia is right in their backyard, just further driving home that farm-to-table mentality!

Agritopia is usually open daily from 10am – 6pm (extended on the weekends), though keep an eye out for events as that can alter their opening hours and availability.

Hop on an E-Bike Tour: Discover Gilbert’s Hidden Gems

Instead of relying on your feet to see the sights, why not hop on a Pedego e-bike and embark on a guided tour of Gilbert. Now, these aren’t your average bikes – they have on board motors that help you climb those hills with ease so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the ride!

With guides as savvy as the locals themselves, you’ll be pedaling around and navigating the nooks and crannies of Gilbert like a pro. Tours typically depart in the mornings, and will run you $100 a person. Book online in advance to secure your spot!

If you want to skip the tour and make your own day by just renting an e-bike, you can do that as well! It’s $50 for 2 hours, $89 for 4 hours, or $100 to keep the bike the entire day (though of course the earlier in the day you pick it up, the better the value for the all day price)! Helmets and locks are included in your rental.

The Gilbert Pedego location is open daily from 10am to 5pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Things to Do In Gilbert, Arizona

Gilbert, Arizona, is a vibrant tapestry woven with experiences catering to all adventurers and explorers. Whether you’re itching to delve into the town’s rich history, immerse yourself in outdoor adventures, indulge in culinary delights, or spend quality time with the family, this city has something to offer everyone.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a local looking to try something new or a snowbird hanging around for the season trying to immerse yourself in local culture. There’s always something unique to experience, new foods to try, and hidden gems to explore.

If you’re looking to make it a date, make sure to check out my guide for things to do in Arizona for couples too!