Gilbert AZ

Gilbert, AZ – A thriving suburb of Phoenix, Gilbert blends small-town charm with modern amenities. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, top-rated schools, and vibrant downtown, this desert gem offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, delicious dining, and community spirit. Whether you're exploring its scenic parks, enjoying farm-to-table dining, or soaking in the Arizona sunshine, Gilbert has something for everyone.

• Population: ~275,000
• Weather: Hot summers, mild winters (40-105°F); low humidity, mostly sunny days.
• Places To Visit: Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, Gilbert Heritage District, Hale Centre Theatre, SanTan Village, Freestone Park.
• Top Activities: Hiking and biking trails, dining at local farms, shopping at outdoor malls, catching live performances, exploring nature preserves.
• Famous Food: BBQ at Joe’s Real BBQ, farm-fresh dishes at The Farmhouse, tacos at Joyride Taco House, and handcrafted ice cream at Petersen’s.

Gilbert, AZ, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The city has a strong economy, with industries like healthcare, technology, finance, education, and construction playing a key role. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in Gilbert.

Gilbert, Arizona, offers tons of welcoming spots where students can unwind, forget about their busy study schedules, and enjoy some relaxing fun. Whether you prefer engaging parks, tasty eats, or chilled-out hangouts, Gilbert has plenty of cool spots to keep your life balanced.

Downtown Gilbert (Heritage District) – Right in the heart of the city, this area offers trendy cafes, locally-owned restaurants, and unique shops. Grab ice cream at Petersen's, meet friends at Liberty Market, or snap cool Instagram shots in this bustling area full of charm.

Freestone Park – Ideal for outdoor lovers and students needing some fresh air, Freestone Park has sports fields, playgrounds, picnic spots, and a relaxing lake. Bring a frisbee, play volleyball, or simply chill out on the grass and watch the sunset.

Topgolf Gilbert – Even if golfing isn't your best skill, Topgolf is fun for all students. With interactive golf games, tasty snacks, and refreshing beverages, it's perfect for laughter-filled evenings with friends.

SanTan Village Mall – A great place to shop, watch movies, or just walk around with friends. Enjoy a bite at cool eateries like Shake Shack or try unique treats from various food stalls at the mall.

Agritopia – This charming community offers cozy coffee shops, friendly eateries, and beautiful open spaces perfect for studying or just hanging out. The popular Barnone marketplace has tasty pizza, artisanal coffee, and handcrafted goods you'll love exploring.

Gilbert Regional Park – With wide-open green spaces, sports courts, and comfy picnic spots, this park is a chill spot to de-stress after classes. Bring your friends, snacks, and games, and spend an easygoing day outdoors.

Altitude Trampoline Park – Feeling energetic? Meet friends for a fun and active day bouncing around on trampolines, playing dodgeball, or trying flips. It’s an exciting, carefree way to relieve study stress.

Gilbert, Arizona, is home to excellent public and private institutions that provide students with high-quality education in various fields, including healthcare, business, and technology.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Gilbert

Arizona State University – Polytechnic Campus – A cutting-edge campus of ASU, offering programs in engineering, aviation, business, and sustainability.

Chandler-Gilbert Community College – A well-respected community college providing associate degrees and certifications in healthcare, business, and the arts.

Rio Salado College – A leader in online education, offering flexible learning options in business, education, and healthcare fields.

Mesa Community College – One of Arizona’s largest community colleges, known for its strong nursing, business, and STEM programs.

Eastern Arizona College – Gilbert Campus – A satellite campus providing affordable education with transfer opportunities to universities across the state.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Gilbert

Park University – Gilbert Campus – A private institution offering programs in business, criminal justice, and information technology.

University of Advancing Technology – A technology-focused university providing degrees in cybersecurity, game development, and artificial intelligence.

Ottawa University – Arizona – A private Christian university with strong programs in business, education, and healthcare.

Grand Canyon University (Nearby in Phoenix) – A private university known for its healthcare, business, and education programs.

Central Christian College of the Bible – Arizona Campus – A faith-based institution that offers theological and ministry-focused degrees.

Gilbert, AZ, is home to some of the best high schools in the state, offering students strong academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and college readiness.

Top Public High Schools In Gilbert, AZ

• Gilbert Classical Academy – A top-ranked public school known for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on college preparation.
• Higley High School – Offers a diverse range of advanced placement and career-focused programs.
• Perry High School – Recognized for its strong academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities.
• Campo Verde High School – Known for its excellent student support services and high graduation rates.
• Desert Ridge High School – Provides a comprehensive academic experience with a focus on STEM and the arts.

Top Private High Schools In Gilbert, AZ

• Gilbert Christian High School – A highly rated private school with a faith-based curriculum and strong college preparation.
• American Leadership Academy – Gilbert North – Offers a leadership-focused education with a strong emphasis on character development.
• Leading Edge Academy – Provides small class sizes and a personalized learning approach.
• Heritage Academy Gateway – Focuses on classical education and leadership training.
• San Tan Charter School – Offers an innovative learning environment with a variety of academic programs.

Gilbert, Arizona, is a vibrant community, but it does not have any major professional sports teams. However, residents of Gilbert passionately support the teams based in nearby Phoenix, which offer exciting action across various major leagues.

🏀 Basketball – Phoenix Suns (NBA)

• Phoenix Suns – The Suns are a beloved NBA team with a dedicated fan base. Founded in 1968, they have reached the NBA Finals three times (1976, 1993, and 2021). Legendary players like Charles Barkley, Steve Nash, and Devin Booker have contributed to the team’s success.

🏀 Women’s Basketball – Phoenix Mercury (WNBA)

• Phoenix Mercury – A dominant team in the WNBA, the Mercury have won three WNBA championships (2007, 2009, and 2014). Stars like Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner have played key roles in their success.

🏈 Football – Arizona Cardinals (NFL)

• Arizona Cardinals – The Cardinals are the oldest continuously run professional football team in the U.S., originally founded in 1898. They played in Super Bowl XLIII (2008) but fell just short of victory. The team has had legendary players such as Larry Fitzgerald and Kurt Warner.

⚾ Baseball – Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)

• Arizona Diamondbacks – The D-backs, founded in 1998, brought home their first World Series championship in 2001 by defeating the New York Yankees in a thrilling seven-game series. Notable players include Randy Johnson, Luis Gonzalez, and Paul Goldschmidt.

🏒 Hockey – Arizona Coyotes (NHL)

• Arizona Coyotes – Originally the Winnipeg Jets before relocating to Arizona in 1996, the Coyotes have built a loyal fan base. While they have yet to win a Stanley Cup, they continue to develop talent and push for postseason success.

⚽ Soccer – Phoenix Rising FC (USL Championship)

• Phoenix Rising FC – Competing in the USL Championship, Phoenix Rising FC is a top-tier club in the second division of U.S. soccer. They have reached multiple USL Championship finals and are widely recognized for their passionate supporters.

While Gilbert itself does not host major professional sports teams, the nearby city of Phoenix offers many exciting options for local sports fans to cheer for throughout the year.

Gilbert, Arizona, is a thriving town known for its charming community, sunny weather, and rich history. Once a small farming community, it has grown into one of the best places to live in the U.S. Here are some fun facts about Gilbert:

1. Hay Capital of the World – Gilbert was once known as the "Hay Capital of the World" due to its strong agricultural roots.
2. Safest City – It consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the U.S., with low crime rates and a welcoming community.
3. All About the Sunshine – Gilbert enjoys over 300 sunny days per year, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
4. Fast-Growing Town – Once a small farming town, Gilbert has become one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the country.
5. A Foodie’s Paradise – The town is home to many award-winning restaurants, offering everything from farm-to-table dining to international cuisine.
6. Riparian Preserve – The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a beautiful nature spot with over 200 species of birds and miles of scenic trails.
7. No Freeways – Unlike many major cities, there are no freeways running directly through Gilbert, giving it a more suburban feel.
8. Big on Parks – Gilbert has over 600 acres of parkland, providing plenty of green spaces and playgrounds for families.
9. Heritage District – The historic downtown area is filled with quaint shops, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.
10. Hollywood in Gilbert – The town has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, thanks to its picturesque scenery.