Gilbert Az On Map
Discovering the Best of Gilbert, AZ
Gilbert, Arizona is a charming town located in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Known for its warm climate, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant community, Gilbert is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the best of the Southwest. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or culture lover, Gilbert has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips that will make your visit to Gilbert unforgettable.
Top Attractions in Gilbert
One of the best things about Gilbert is its abundance of fun and exciting attractions. Here are a few must-see spots:
- Discovery Park – This massive park offers hiking trails, fishing, and plenty of open space for picnics and outdoor games.
- Riparian Preserve – Home to over 200 species of birds, this nature preserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
- Downtown Gilbert – This vibrant area is packed with restaurants, shops, and nightlife options.
Hidden Gems in Gilbert
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, don’t forget to explore some of Gilbert’s hidden gems:
- Joe’s Farm Grill – This family-friendly restaurant is housed in a converted farmhouse and serves up delicious burgers and fries.
- The Gilbert Historical Museum – Learn about the town’s rich history and see artifacts from the early days of settlement.
- The Farm at Agritopia – This working farm and community garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Gilbert.
Food Scene in Gilbert
Gilbert is home to a thriving food scene that draws inspiration from both traditional Southwestern cuisine and international flavors. Here are a few of the top restaurants to try:
- Barrio Queen – This Mexican restaurant serves up delicious tacos and margaritas in a fun and lively atmosphere.
- Postino Wine Cafe – With a menu of shareable plates and an extensive wine list, this spot is perfect for a night out with friends.
- Liberty Market – Housed in a historic building, this restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Budget-Friendly Tips in Gilbert
Traveling on a budget? Don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to experience Gilbert without breaking the bank:
- Visit the Gilbert Farmers Market – This weekly market offers fresh produce, artisanal products, and live music.
- Take a hike at the San Tan Mountain Regional Park – Entrance fees are just $7 per vehicle, making this a budget-friendly way to experience the great outdoors.
- Explore the public art installations – Gilbert has a number of beautiful public art pieces scattered throughout the town, all of which are free to view.
Outdoor Adventures in Gilbert
With its warm climate and stunning natural landscapes, Gilbert is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few of the top outdoor activities to try:
- Hiking at the Usery Mountain Regional Park – With over 29 miles of trails, this park offers plenty of opportunities to explore the desert landscape.
- Kayaking on the Salt River – Rent a kayak or tube and spend a lazy afternoon floating down the river.
- Exploring the Lost Dutchman State Park – This park is home to the legendary Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine and offers hiking trails and stunning views of the Superstition Mountains.
Family-Friendly Activities in Gilbert
Traveling with kids? Gilbert has plenty of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep everyone happy:
- Visit the Gilbert Riparian Preserve – Kids will love spotting birds and other wildlife in this beautiful nature preserve.
- Take a cooking class at Whisked Away – This cooking school offers classes for all ages, from toddlers to adults.
- Visit the Gilbert Historical Museum – Kids can learn about the town’s history through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Gilbert
If you’re looking for something a little different, try one of these off-the-beaten-path experiences:
- Take a hot air balloon ride – See Gilbert from a whole new perspective with a hot air balloon ride over the town.
- Visit the Gilbert Olive Mill – This family-owned olive farm offers tours, tastings, and a beautiful garden to explore.
- Attend a rodeo – Gilbert is home to the annual Gilbert Days Rodeo, a fun and exciting event for the whole family.
Natural Wonders in Gilbert
From stunning mountain views to beautiful desert landscapes, Gilbert is full of natural wonders. Here are a few of the top spots to explore:
- The Superstition Mountains – These stunning peaks offer hiking trails, horseback riding, and stunning views.
- The Tonto National Forest – This vast forest is home to hiking trails, fishing spots, and beautiful scenery.
- The Salt River – Take a scenic drive along the river or spend a day tubing or kayaking on the water.
Vibrant Nightlife in Gilbert
When the sun goes down, Gilbert comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Here are a few of the top spots to check out:
- The Whining Pig – This cozy wine bar offers a wide selection of wines and beers, as well as a relaxed atmosphere.
- Topgolf – Hit some balls, enjoy a drink, and listen to live music at this fun and lively golfing complex.
- The Yard – With a rotating selection of food trucks, live music, and outdoor games, The Yard is the perfect spot for a casual night out.
Local Markets in Gilbert
If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or delicious local products, be sure to check out these local markets:
- The Gilbert Farmers Market – This weekly market offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music.
- The Gilbert Art Walk – This monthly event showcases local artists and craftsmen, and offers the chance to meet the artists and learn about their work.
- The Gilbert Night Market – This nighttime market features food trucks, live music, and local vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to artisanal cheeses.
Beaches and Mountains in Gilbert
While Gilbert isn’t located on the coast, there are plenty of beautiful beaches and mountains within driving distance:
- The Gulf of California – Just a few hours’ drive from Gilbert, this beautiful coastline offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- The Grand Canyon – One of the most famous natural wonders in the world, the Grand Canyon is a must-see for anyone visiting Arizona.
- The White Mountains – This scenic mountain range offers hiking, fishing, and stunning views.
Cultural Immersion in Gilbert
Immerse yourself in Gilbert’s rich culture with these experiences:
- The Hale Centre Theatre – This professional theater company offers a wide variety of productions, from classic plays to modern musicals.
- The Gilbert Days Parade – This annual parade celebrates the town’s history and culture, with floats, marching bands, and more.
- The Gilbert Global Village Festival – This annual festival showcases the town’s diverse cultures through food, music, and dance.
Art and Music Scene in Gilbert
With a thriving arts and music scene, Gilbert is a great destination for culture lovers. Here are a few of the top spots to check out:
- The Higley Center for the Performing Arts – This state-of-the-art theater hosts concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year.
- The Gilbert Visual Art League – This organization promotes local artists and hosts regular exhibitions and events.
- The Gilbert Downtown Concert Series – This free concert series takes place in the heart of downtown Gilbert and features a variety of musical genres.
Walking Tours in Gilbert
Get to know Gilbert on foot with these walking tours:
- The Gilbert Heritage District Walking Tour – This self-guided tour takes you through the historic downtown area, with stops at some of the town’s most interesting buildings and landmarks.
- The Gilbert Art Walk – This monthly event offers the chance to explore the town’s thriving arts scene, with stops at local galleries and artists’ studios.
- The Gilbert Historical Museum Walking Tour – Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes you through the museum’s exhibits and highlights some of the town’s most important historical moments.
Architectural Marvel