About Gilbert
Our Story
Welcome to Gilbert, Arizona. One of America’s Top 20 Thriving Cities
Discover Gilbert: Your Scenic Adventure Hub
Gilbert is a gateway to Arizona’s stunning landscapes and attractions. To the northeast, the legendary Superstition Mountains beckon, hiding the mysteries of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine within their rugged terrain. Nearby, the Tonto National Forest offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from desert vistas to lush pine forests.
Venture south, and you’ll encounter Saguaro National Park, where the iconic saguaro cactus stands tall against the desert backdrop, a symbol of the American Southwest. But Gilbert itself is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures. Nestled within its borders is the renowned Riparian Preserve, hailed as the Phoenix metro region’s premier birdwatching destination.
Explore its winding trails on foot or horseback and immerse yourself in the vibrant ecosystem teeming with wildlife. With over 250 species of birds soaring through its skies, the Riparian Preserve offers an unparalleled opportunity for birdwatching enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.


Rich History
Step into Gilbert and feel its rich history dating back to 1891, when homesteaders first cultivated alfalfa. From its days as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World” to the transition to cotton and dairy farming, Gilbert’s agricultural roots still thrive in its farm-to-table eateries.
Named after original landowner William “Bobby” Gilbert, the town saw rapid growth with the arrival of the Phoenix and Eastern Railroad in 1902. By 1980, its population had more than doubled to 5,700, reaching 110,000 just 20 years later. Today, more than 280,000 people call Gilbert home.
In the early 1990s, Gilbert leveraged its agricultural past to create a vibrant dining and cultural scene. Downtown Gilbert’s historic buildings transformed into inviting spaces for socializing and dining, marking a new chapter in the town’s evolution.
There’s always something to do in our community. We invite you to Discover Gilbert!
Shop. Dine. Play.
Downtown Gilbert, better known as the Heritage District, is home to some of the region’s best dining options and live entertainment, plus vibrant nightlife, and local shopping. Open-air patio dining is abundant, so you can enjoy your food and company while you lounge in the beautiful Arizona weather.
Agritopia Farm was founded with two goals in mind: to preserve urban agriculture and to serve as a place for the community to gather and enjoy life. Restaurants and shops surround the 11-acre USDA organic farm. Enjoy farm-to-fork meals and purchase local products and produce from the Farm Store. But that’s not all. Explore handcrafted goods at Barnone, grab a bite at Belly Kitchen & Bar or experience award-winning cocktails at Undertow at Epicenter.
No Gilbert getaway is complete without a trip to SanTan Village, an open-air shopping destination that features big-name retailers, local boutiques, and great restaurants. Even when you’re not looking to shop, SanTan Village offers plenty of entertainment options and amazing dessert spots, including Kids Empire, a Harkins movie theater, Honeymee and Frost Gelato.
















