10 Fun Facts About Gilbert, AZ: How Well Do You Know Your City?

Known for its picturesque desert landscapes and family-friendly atmosphere, Gilbert, AZ, offers a unique blend of modern amenities and small-town charm. With its thriving local businesses, top-rated schools, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities, living in Gilbert provides a perfect balance of convenience and natural beauty. Whether you’re settling into a new apartment in Gilbert or have lived in the city for years, this Redfin article will dive into some fun facts about Gilbert you’ll want to know.

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Quick facts about Gilbert

1. Gilbert has some unique street names

Gilbert, AZ is known for its unique street names such as “Sesame Street,” “Lois Lane,” and “Barney Court.” It adds a touch of whimsy to the city’s layout and makes for interesting conversations when giving directions.

2. Gilbert was once known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World.”

In its early years, Gilbert was known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World.” The town’s agricultural roots are deeply embedded in its history, with vast fields dedicated to hay production. This agricultural heritage is celebrated at local events and reflected in the town’s historic architecture.

3. Gilbert’s citrus industry is booming

Gilbert was once known for shipping hay, but it has since transformed into the “Citrus Capital of the World.” The city’s citrus industry is thriving, and you can find delicious oranges, lemons, and grapefruits grown locally.

4. The Saguaro cactus is Gilbert’s unofficial mascot

The Saguaro cactus is a prominent feature in Gilbert, and it’s often considered the unofficial mascot of the city. These towering cacti can be found throughout the area, adding a unique and quirky charm to the landscape.

5. Gilbert used to be considered a ghost town

Gilbert was once a ghost town with a declining population, but it has experienced a remarkable transformation and is now a thriving city with a growing community. The population has doubled every five years on average since 1980 and currently sits at about 290,000.

6. Gilbert hosts an annual Global Village Festival

Gilbert hosts an annual Global Village Festival that celebrates the city’s diverse cultural heritage. It features music, dance, food, and art from around the world, making it a fun and educational event for locals and visitors alike. The event was held at the Gilbert Civic Center Lawn in 2024.

7.  A historic water tower is one of Gilbert’s signature landmarks

The Gilbert Water Tower is a historic landmark that has been preserved and stands as a reminder of the city’s past. It’s a popular spot for photos and a symbol of Gilbert’s rich history. The area surrounding the tower is now a park with grassy areas and seating.

8. Gilbert has some unique traffic laws

Gilbert has some unusual traffic laws, including a ban on driving cars in reverse on public roads. It’s a quirky regulation that adds a touch of uniqueness to the city’s traffic rules.

9. Gilbert has a thriving agritourism scene

Gilbert is home to several agritourism destinations, where visitors can experience farm life, pick fresh produce, and learn about sustainable agriculture practices. It’s a unique and educational way to connect with the local community.

10. Gilbert hosts a concert series during the spring

The Downtown Concert Series in Gilbert offers free concerts in the heart of the Heritage District. Featuring a diverse range of musical genres, these events provide a lively atmosphere for community gatherings. They also support local musicians and enhance the town’s cultural vibrancy.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.