Welcome to Gilbert

Gilbert is a city that seamlessly blends small-town charm with the conveniences of modern living, offering residents a welcoming community rooted in rich history and forward-thinking growth. Once known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World,” Gilbert has evolved into a vibrant, family-friendly community with a strong commitment to sustainable development and a thriving local economy. With its tree-lined streets, highly regarded schools, and a focus on parks and open spaces, Gilbert provides a comforting suburban feel while offering residents access to award-winning restaurants and Arizona’s premier shopping destinations.

Located southeast of Phoenix, Gilbert is one of Arizona’s fastest-growing communities, home to over 288,000 residents while maintaining a friendly, neighborly atmosphere. Whether enjoying a day at the Riparian Preserve, dining in the bustling Heritage District, or exploring the weekly farmers market, residents embrace the town’s walkable lifestyle, welcoming environment, and abundant sunshine that make Gilbert a truly exceptional place to call home.

What to Love

• Walkable downtown with over 30 restaurants and local shops

• Riparian Preserve’s scenic trails and wildlife viewing

• Weekly Gilbert Farmers Market with local, organic produce

• Award-winning dining and Arizona’s premier outdoor shopping at SanTan Village

• Strong community culture with year-round events and festivals

Local Lifestyle

Gilbert residents enjoy a lifestyle centered on community, outdoor activities, and family-friendly amenities. Mornings often start with a stroll through the Heritage District or a bike ride along the town’s many trails before grabbing coffee at a local café. Afternoons may be spent exploring local parks, shopping at SanTan Village, or enjoying Gilbert’s diverse culinary offerings. Evenings often bring residents together for live performances at the Hale Centre Theatre, events in the downtown area, or relaxing under the Arizona sunset at one of Gilbert’s many outdoor patios.

Dining and Shopping

Gilbert offers a vibrant dining scene that highlights the city’s blend of modern tastes and community feel. Liberty Market, a beloved Gilbert staple in the Heritage District, offers a warm, local dining experience with a menu featuring seasonal favorites. Joe’s Farm Grill, featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,” serves farm-to-table meals in a casual setting that celebrates Gilbert’s agricultural roots while delivering fresh, flavorful dishes.

Humble Bistro is known for its handmade pastas and unique flatbreads, providing a refined dining option for those seeking Italian-inspired cuisine. The White Rabbit, a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge, offers an intimate and fun experience with innovative cocktails in a distinctive, stylish setting. For those seeking local brews, Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co., named Best New Brewery in the World, offers a laid-back environment with a focus on sustainability and quality.

For shopping, SanTan Village serves as the area’s premier outdoor shopping destination, with a mix of high-end brands, local boutiques, and diverse dining options in a walkable, open-air setting. The Heritage District in Downtown Gilbert offers a vibrant mix of shops and eateries, perfect for spending an afternoon exploring local finds and enjoying the lively atmosphere that makes Gilbert’s downtown one of the East Valley’s most cherished destinations.

Things to Do and Entertainment

Gilbert offers an abundance of activities for residents who appreciate the outdoors, arts, and community events. The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, a 110-acre oasis, features over 4.5 miles of trails and seven ponds, providing a sanctuary for native wildlife and an ideal setting for walking, bird-watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the desert landscape. The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory within the preserve offers stargazing opportunities, allowing residents to explore the night sky and learn about celestial phenomena.

The town’s community-focused culture is celebrated through its year-round events, including the Gilbert Days Festival in November and the weekly Gilbert Farmers Market in the heart of downtown, where residents can purchase local produce and artisan goods while enjoying a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Families appreciate the variety of parks, including Freestone District Park, which offers playgrounds, a skate park, fishing lakes, and ball fields, ensuring there are activities for all ages to enjoy. For live entertainment, the Hale Centre Theatre provides Broadway-quality performances in an intimate setting, adding to the rich arts and culture scene that Gilbert residents enjoy throughout the year.