If you're looking for a little more variety in the Valley, take a trip to Gilbert and experience it's visitor-friendly environment with shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and a hint of historical flair.

Shopping

San Tan Village

Home to a huge variety of big-name department stores, specialty boutiques, delectable restaurants and traditional entertainment venues, San Tan Village is more than just a shopping center. The shopping center itself is energy efficient and takes part in community partnerships, and is aesthetically pleasing with its clean and modern architecture. It is located just off of the Loop 202 Freeway near East Williams Field Road. Aside from the business themselves, San Tan Village offers different events throughout the year. For event information and a store directory, visit http://www.shopsantanvillage.com/.

Downtown Gilbert

The Downtown Gilbert Heritage District offers a historic look of Gilbert’s past, and has a collection of gift shops, restaurants and businesses.

Dining

Joe Johnston’s Tasty Trio

Joe Johnston, born and raised in Gilbert, opened up three restaurants to showcase his food expertise. Joe’s Farm Grill, Joe’s Real BBQ and Liberty Market are all located in Gilbert. Joe’s Farm Grill serves classic American food in a family-friendly farm setting (http://joesfarmgrill.com/). Joe’s Real BBQ’s menu is filled with—you guessed it—hearty, delicious barbecue cuisine located in a rustic 1929 building ( http://joesrealbbq.com/ ). Liberty Market offers a full menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner ( http://www.libertymarket.com/index.html).

Entertainment

The Higley Center for the Performing Arts

The Higley Center for the Performing Arts is a great venue to enjoy a variety of shows, concerts, plays and more. Both public and educational student shows are available throughout the year, as well as special scheduled events. http://www.higleyarts.org/.

The Hale Theater

This theater is believed to the longest continuously running theater in the country. Aside from its charming and fascinating history, The Hale Theater schedules well-known and timely performances at great prices. http://www.haletheatrearizona.com/.

The Riparian Institute Preserve

The Riparian Preserve is a unique experience to study a huge variety of unique, beautiful and rare birds. Public birdwatching walk-throughs are scheduled and there are many special opportunities for scout groups, school and research. Check the schedule for special events and current bird sightings to plan a walk-through or sign up to volunteer with the preserve. http://www.riparianinstitute.org/birding.cfm.