As summer heat encroaches, Gilbert, Arizona preps a cool-down menu for locals and visitors alike, packed with splash pads, ice cream, and indoor activities. Discover Gilbert rolls out their bucket list comprised of ten lively options to ensure everyone can keep it chill during the hotter months.
Starting at the Water Tower Plaza's new splash pad, a sun-shading oasis awaits; efficient in its water use, it's an ideal haunt for kids to frolic while adults lounge in shaded comfort taking in downtown's sightline. The singular H2O Fest on June 7 tosses in a massive slip and slide, treats, and water-fueled fun at Freestone Park; tickets are a hot commodity for this watery fête. To satisfy sweet tooths, Cream of the Crop within Barnone's Agritopia scoops out artisan ice cream—think small-batch and seasonally inspired, reminding us of the joys of simplicity in summer's embrace.
For aquatic buffs, Gilbert pools, ready to welcome the public on May 24, include Greenfield, Perry, Williams Field, and Mesquite Aquatic Center, offering plunges into cool waters, gravity-defying dives, and shaded relaxation. Not to be left on thin ice, AZ Ice Gilbert's public skate sessions on August 23—featuring a Skate with a Cop event—are open to all slider hopefuls, novices or pros, skate rentals in tow, as reported by the Gilbert official website.
Escape to the Riparian Preserve at sunrise or sunset to avoid the oppressive daytime heat and possibly spot turtles meandering among the local fauna. Traverse shaded trails bathed in the soft glow of the day's edges. Meanwhile, the Freestone Recreation Center tempts with indoor rock climbing, setting aside the usual pull of gravity in pursuit of scaling artificial peaks. Yet the soupy air lingers—book lovers might find a welcome retreat at the Southeast Regional Library. It brims with quiet corners and engaging programs; it's more than just shelves of books—it's a true respite.
For those seeking a swing without sunstroke, Topgolf Gilbert offers reprieve in climate-controlled comfort, while HD South—formerly the Gilbert Historical Museum—invites you to touch history in cool, conditioned air. This list, replete with shaded liquids, cool treats, and family fun, stands as your summer blueprint in Gilbert. To find more details and plan your summer itinerary, visit Discover Gilbert's website.
