Best Things to Do in Gilbert This Week

Gilbert is buzzing with activity this week! From outdoor adventures under the Arizona sun to vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to explore Gilbert's hidden gems and make unforgettable memories.

🌴 Outdoor Activities

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

Escape into nature at this 110-acre preserve with nearly 70 acres of lakes and streams. Explore over 4 miles of trails, perfect for walking, hiking, and birdwatching, with nearly 300 species identified. Anglers can also enjoy fishing in the stocked basins.

Tip: Visit during sunset for stunning views and cooler temperatures. Don't forget your binoculars for optimal birdwatching!

SanTan Mountain Regional Park

Hike or bike through this 10,000+ acre park, offering trails for all skill levels. Enjoy panoramic mountain views on the challenging San Tan Trail, or opt for the family-friendly Moonlight Trail. Check out ranger-led walks to learn about local flora and fauna.

Tip: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, especially if you're hiking during the day. The desert sun can be intense!

Lower Salt River

Cool off with a day of paddleboarding, kayaking, or tubing on the calm 12-mile stretch of the Lower Salt River. Launch from Phon D Sutton or Raccoon Bluff, and take out at Granite Reef for a beautiful sunset view. Several companies offer rentals and guided tours.

Tip: A Tonto National Forest pass is required for accessing the river. Consider a guided tour for a hassle-free experience.

Freestone Park

This expansive park features sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lake. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, play tennis, or have a picnic. Kids will love the Freestone Railroad, with a miniature train, carousel, and Ferris wheel.

Tip: Check the park's event calendar for community events throughout the year.

🍽️ Food & Dining

Joe's Real BBQ

Savor mouthwatering, slow-cooked barbecue in a nostalgic setting at this Gilbert staple. Located in a 1929 building, Joe's Real BBQ has been serving up delicious BBQ since 1998. They use farm-fresh ingredients from Agritopia.

Tip: Don't miss their famous mac and cheese and homemade root beer.

Liberty Market

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at this family-friendly, all-day restaurant and bar. Housed in an old grocery store, Liberty Market offers artisan sandwiches, fresh salads, and wood-fired pizzas. They also have an espresso bar, cocktail menu, and wine list.

Tip: Check out their weekend specials and enjoy the renovated mid-century inspired aesthetic.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

An American restaurant serving hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood from a scratch kitchen. Join them for happy hour from 3 PM to 7 PM every Monday through Friday in the FIREBAR or on the patio. It is located on the NW corner of SanTan Village Pkwy & Williams Field Rd.

Tip: Try the lobster queso or the wood-fired steaks.

Buck & Rider

Enjoy the freshest seafood, flown in twice a day. The restaurant serves seafood, steak, and raw bar options for brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner. Walk-ins are welcome at this restaurant located at 3150 E. Ray Rd.

Tip: Check out the oyster selection and happy hour specials.

🎡 Nightlife & Entertainment

Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row

Experience a lively country bar with live music, line dancing, and a high-energy atmosphere. Enjoy craft cocktails, delicious food, and a fun night out at this popular Gilbert destination. Dancing lessons are also offered regularly.

Tip: Check their schedule for live music and special events, especially during Spring Break.

The Porch

Enjoy creative pub food, unique cocktails, and yard games at this retro-inspired hangout spot. The Porch Gilbert is a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts looking to catch a game, with an array of TVs, whether you prefer indoor or outdoor seating. On April 9th, enjoy Jeopardy Trivia Night from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Tip: Bring the family for a casual night out with excellent service.

Lucky Strike Gilbert

Enjoy elevated bowling lanes, an expansive arcade, bold flavors, and hand-crafted cocktails in an upbeat atmosphere. Lucky Strike is a go-to spot for groups and nights out and regularly hosts group outings and events. It delivers a space that feels upbeat without being overwhelming, and social without trying too hard.

Tip: Explore social events or polished corporate parties that turn a typical night into something memorable.

Karaoke Night at The Parlour Room

Show off your singing skills at Karaoke Night in the Heritage District. The event is on April 10th at 8:00 pm.

Tip: Bring friends to cheer you on!

🎨 Arts & Culture

Hale Centre Theatre

Catch a show at this intimate theatre in the round. From April 2nd to May 9th, enjoy She Loves Me, a romantic musical comedy. It is a sweet, romantic musical set in a charming 1930s Budapest parfumerie, telling the story of two feuding colleagues who are unaware they're secret pen pals.

Tip: Check their website for showtimes and ticket availability.

Gilbert Historical Museum at HD South

Explore the history of Gilbert at this local museum. HD South also hosts art exhibitions and cultural programs. Through May 25th, view the 21st Annual β€œArt of Quilting” Show, a vibrant celebration honoring the nation's Semiquincentennial.

Tip: Check out their upcoming programs, including Adventures in Art, STEM Saturday, and self-defense classes.

Gilbert Public Art

Embark on a self-guided tour of Gilbert's public art scene. Use the digital Gilbert Public Art Map to locate over 70 art installations throughout the town. Discover murals in the Heritage District, Verde at Cooley Station, and Epicenter at Agritopia.

Tip: Take a break on the whimsical illuminated couches in downtown Gilbert.

Gilbert Art Walk

Explore a wide range of art mediums, including jewelry, painting, ceramics, woodworking, and photography, at this outdoor market-style event. It features live music and is a family- and pet-friendly art show. It is offered on the first and third Saturdays during peak visitation season.

Tip: Discover more about Gilbert's local art community.

✨ Free Things to Do

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

Enjoy free access to this beautiful nature preserve. Walk the trails, watch for wildlife, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The preserve covers 110 acres.

Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in nature.

Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory

View the night sky for free at this observatory located within the Riparian Preserve. It's open Fridays and Saturdays from sunset to 9 PM. On the second Friday of each month, attend a special astronomy talk at the library.

Tip: Check the calendar for meteor showers or comet sightings.

Gilbert Farmers Market

Wander through the Gilbert Farmers Market on Saturday morning. Enjoy free entertainment while visiting over 60 vendors selling local fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and handmade arts and crafts.

Tip: Arrive early for the best selection of fresh produce.

Discovery District Park

Spend a day at this 48-acre park with soccer fields, basketball courts, jogging trails, and a playground. Enjoy the fresh air and stay active at Discovery District Park.

Tip: Bring sports equipment for a fun afternoon with friends or family.

Water Tower Plaza

Visit this charming community park in the heart of Gilbert's Heritage District. Cool off at the splash pad and admire the iconic Gilbert Water Tower.

Tip: Attend one of the weekly events held at the plaza.

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Freestone Park

With lakes, bike paths, a kiddie railroad, skate park, and playground, Freestone Park is perfect for families. Ride the miniature train, carousel, and Ferris wheel. Relax with a picnic under the ramadas.

Tip: Consider feeding the ducks at the lake.

Gilbert Regional Park

Enjoy a large splash pad with over 50 water features. Kids will love the Mountain, a 17-foot-tall playground with swings, slides, and a zip-line. There's also a dedicated play area for little ones.

Tip: Bring swimsuits and towels for a fun-filled day at the splash pad.

Mother Nature's Farm

Visit this farm for seasonal events and family fun. Depending on the time of year, enjoy hayrides, a maze, a pumpkin patch, and farm animals. The farm is open September through December.

Tip: Check their website for special events and holiday activities.

Main Event

Enjoy bowling, laser tag, arcade games, billiards, mini-golf, escape rooms, and a gravity ropes course at this family entertainment venue. It is a great place for virtual reality, too.

Tip: Visit during the afternoon for less crowded experience.

Local Insider Tips

  • Gilbert is very pedestrian-friendly, with numerous canal and trail paths for walking and biking.
  • Ask your server about local beers on tap at restaurants. Gilbert offers a great selection of craft brews.
  • Check the Gilbert Farmers Market for fresh, local produce and unique handmade goods.
  • Explore the Heritage District for a mix of historic charm, dining, and local shops.
  • Take advantage of the many outdoor activities, but be prepared for the desert heat with plenty of water and sunscreen.

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