Gilbert Family Fun: Free and Affordable Activities for All Ages
Family-Friendly Gilbert
Gilbert, Arizona has earned its reputation as one of the best places to raise a family. With over 40 parks, excellent schools, and a vibrant downtown district, this East Valley city offers countless opportunities for family fun without straining the budget.
Free Outdoor Adventures
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch: This 110-acre wetland sanctuary offers free admission year-round. Families can enjoy walking trails, bird watching, and nature exploration. The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory hosts free public stargazing events.
Freestone District Park: Features playgrounds, sports fields, a lake, picnic areas, and a splash pad during warmer months—all free of charge.
Discovery Park: Expansive green spaces perfect for picnics, frisbee, and family gatherings.
Budget Entertainment Venues
- FatCats Entertainment: 20-lane bowling alley, recline-n-dine theater with affordable movie and meal combos
- FlipSide Entertainment: 28 mini bowling lanes, arcade games, laser tag at family-friendly prices
- Topgolf Gilbert: Bay rentals make golf gaming affordable when split among friends
Free Community Events
Gilbert's event calendar overflows with free family activities:
- Gilbert Days Festival: Annual two-day celebration with free admission (tickets required), featuring 10+ inflatables and backyard games at no additional charge
- Gilbert Farmers Market: Saturday mornings at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, free to browse
- Riparian After Dark: Seasonal holiday light display
Low-Cost Educational Fun
Gilbert Historical Museum: Offers programming including storytelling, science cafés, gardening, and art workshops at minimal cost.
Hale Centre Theatre: Arizona's premier family theater offers quality productions at reasonable ticket prices since 2003.
Farm Experiences
Agritopia Farm: Self-guided tours let families explore a working urban farm. Seasonal u-pick events offer hands-on agricultural experiences.
Mother Nature's Farm: Features farm animals, corn stocks, bounce houses, hay mazes, and countless photo opportunities at reasonable admission.
Toddler-Friendly Spots
The McQueen Park Activity Center hosts "Toddler Town" play sessions in their gymnasium. Gilbert residents pay just $1.50 per child, non-residents $2. Adults are free.
Water Tower Plaza
Downtown's splash pad offers free summer cooling beneath the iconic water tower. Surrounded by restaurants and shops, it's perfect for a family outing combining play and dining.