The Top Things To See and Do in Gilbert, Arizona
Discovering All There Is To See and Do in Gilbert, Arizona
Travelers seeking an unheralded yet new destination highlighting locally sourced food and drinks, otherworldly nature, fascinating history and culture and pulse-pounding entertainment in one of the most ideal climates in the country should look no further than Gilbert, Arizona. Located roughly 20 miles southwest of Downtown Phoenix, this spirited town is not to be overlooked.
A Southwestern gem often referred to by locals as the Heritage District and foodie heaven with unquestionable credentials, Gilbert’s draw ranges from off-the-beaten-path landmarks in the Superstition Mountains in nearby Lost Dutchman State Park to the lively and tourist-friendly SanTan Village offering visitors some of the best shopping and fun all in one place.
Quite frankly, the options are endless in Gilbert, but travelers can’t go wrong by adding these top highlights to their itineraries.
Enjoy Brunch in the Heritage District
The Valley of the Sun does brunch better than just about every other destination in the country, and Gilbert is no exception. The Heritage District is home to dozens of exceptional restaurants, and spots like The Porch, Culinary Dropout and Snooze A.M. Eatery are setting the standard for brunch lovers. Nonetheless, those local favorites represent just a small sample of what awaits hungry visitors.
Talk With Local Growers at the Gilbert Farmers Market
The Gilbert Farmers Market takes over Downtown Gilbert just west of the famous water tower every Saturday morning from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Boasting more than 60 different vendors in the summer and over 100 in the fall and spring months, the weekly market features locally grown produce and other coveted products in addition to mouthwatering food trucks, games and entertainment.
Discover Arizona-Grown Wine
You can’t talk about epic brunch in Gilbert without mentioning Garage-East, a can’t-miss destination for visitors hoping to discover Arizona-grown wine. This inviting Arizona farm winery not only boasts some remarkable vino but an unbeatable family-friendly backyard atmosphere.
Experience the Original Goat Yoga
Visitors to Gilbert also won’t want to miss out on the original Goat Yoga experience. Voted one of the top 10 things to do in Arizona and rated the number one Goat Yoga in the world, Arizona Goat Yoga offers a once-in-a-lifetime yoga experience including a plethora of highlights such as themed classes, alpaca photo booths, cow cuddling and special animal guests. There’s no better way to spend time outdoors, connect with nature, value your wellness and make new friends along the way.
Enjoy Farm-To-Table Meals
There’s no shortage of ways for foodies to live it up in Gilbert but enjoying farm-to-table meals is one of the best. The plant-based uprooted kitchen is an excellent starting point for this as its located within the neighborhood of Agritopia on an organic farm. As a result, most menu items are created using produce that is grown just outside the kitchen’s front door.
Explore Urban Farming and the Artisans of Agritopia
Travelers to Gilbert should also consider exploring Barnone, a unique community of skilled craftsmen that includes a dozen of Arizona’s best makers ranging from woodworkers to winemakers. Visitors can eat and sip the freshest dishes and beverages as well as shop handcrafted artisans that they won’t find anywhere else.
Go Birding at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
Nature lovers can look forward to birding at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. Boasting as many as seven aquifer recharge basins attracting a variety of wildlife and designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, this scenic preserve is home to approximately 298 species of birds, more than 4.5 miles of trails, an urban fishing lake, convenient covered picnic areas, a dinosaur dig site, campsites and an astronomy observatory.
Find the Best Shopping and Entertainment at SanTan Village
Gilbert’s SanTan Village is one of the best destinations out West for shopping, dining and entertainment as visitors can access their favorite retailers and browse boutiques and look forward to a plethora of stellar restaurants and bars as well as movies, Topgolf, special events and summer kids club programs.
Explore the Surrounding Sonoran Desert
No proper trip to Arizona can be complete without an exploration of the Sonoran Desert. And the iconic Superstition Mountains accessible via Lost Dutchman State Park are a logical starting point. Whether hiking or mountain biking, this mesmerizing wilderness area offers not only breathtaking landscapes but opportunities to experience native wildlife such as mule deer, coyote, javelina and even jackrabbit.