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Water Tower Plaza

4.7
·498 reviews·Gilbert, United States

A revitalized historic landmark in Downtown Gilbert, featuring a splash pad, green spaces, and community events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings/evenings

Coolest part of the day

CrowdMedium
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Cool

Water Tower Plaza

Best Time

Summer mornings/evenings

Coolest part of the day

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A revitalized historic landmark in Downtown Gilbert, featuring a splash pad, green spaces, and community events.

4.7
(498 reviews)

"A cool oasis in Downtown Gilbert, perfect for families and evening gatherings."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Splash Pad Fun for All Ages

Kids love the splash pad! Bring towels and a change of clothes for maximum fun. Open 7 AM - 10 PM.

🎶 Free Concerts in the Park

Enjoy live music on Thursdays in October. Bring a chair and enjoy the evening vibes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Water Tower Splash Pad

Water Tower Splash Pad

Central Plaza Area

A vibrant splash pad with water features, perfect for kids to cool off and play on hot days.

The Iconic Water Tower

The Iconic Water Tower

Centerpiece of the Plaza

Gilbert's historic water tower, a landmark offering shade and a unique backdrop for photos.

Grassy Amphitheater & Seating

Grassy Amphitheater & Seating

Adjacent to Splash Pad

A versatile grassy area perfect for picnics, relaxation, or enjoying free live music events.

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Beat the Heat at the Splash Pad

The Water Tower Plaza features a popular splash pad, perfect for cooling off. It's open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM, making it an ideal spot for families during hot Arizona days. Arrive early or later in the day to avoid peak crowds and the most intense sun.

Evening Events & Ambiance

While a great daytime escape, the plaza truly comes alive at night. Enjoy free concerts in the park during October or simply soak in the energetic vibe with nearby restaurants and nightlife. It's a fantastic spot for a relaxed evening stroll or a post-dinner gathering.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings/evenings
Why
Coolest part of the day
Crowd
Medium
When
October Thursdays
Why
Free live music
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays (daytime)
Why
Quieter for reading/relaxing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@Topgolf has to do something about these perverts. In the meantime, I’ll be trespassed— But that’s not going to stop me from spreading awareness. Protect your emotions from creeps, Especially if you plan on wearing a skirt. Your safety is never up for discussion. #Creep #creeper #creeps #golf #golfing #golfin topgolf #pga #viral #family #news #Scottsdale #Gilbert #trespassed #trespassing #trespass...
@tonyalchemixai
19K likes • 257.9K views

🎯 Splash Pad Fun for All Ages

Kids love the splash pad! Bring towels and a change of clothes for maximum fun. Open 7 AM - 10 PM. TikTokInstagram

🎶 Free Concerts in the Park

Enjoy live music on Thursdays in October. Bring a chair and enjoy the evening vibes! Instagram+1

Come visit us in downtown Gilbert or shop our best selling buttery basics online 🧡 #millennial #momsover30 #momsover40 #gilbert
@bequeenclothing
6K likes • 79.3K views
Water Tower Splash Pad, Downtown Gilbert 💦 The splash pad at the Water Tower Plaza is open daily from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM. ☀️ There’s also a Spinning Granite Ball Water Feature, Water Wall Features, Grassy Turf Amphitheater, Benches, 7 Café Tables and 27 chairs, Bike Racks, Free Parking and Restrooms! 📍 45 W Page Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85296
_littles.and.lattes_
4.5K likes • 135.3K views

📸 Great Spot for Photos

The plaza offers good lighting and a unique backdrop, especially for portraits. Reddit

☕ Nearby Cafes & Restaurants

Grab a bite or coffee from surrounding downtown Gilbert eateries before or after your visit. TikTok

THINGS TO DO: Gilbert’s Water Tower Plaza is set to reopen with a fresh new look just in time for the holiday season after nearly a year of construction. The grand reopening celebration will be held on Monday, December 16th, from 6:00 to 8:30 PM, coinciding with the annual Gilbert Water Tower Holiday Lighting, presented by Willmeng. The renovated plaza now features a water-efficient splash pad and...
gilbertnow
486 likes • 30K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Splash Pad Fun for All Ages

Kids love the splash pad! Bring towels and a change of clothes for maximum fun. Open 7 AM - 10 PM. TikTokInstagram

🎶 Free Concerts in the Park

Enjoy live music on Thursdays in October. Bring a chair and enjoy the evening vibes! Instagram+1

📸 Great Spot for Photos

The plaza offers good lighting and a unique backdrop, especially for portraits. Reddit

☕ Nearby Cafes & Restaurants

Grab a bite or coffee from surrounding downtown Gilbert eateries before or after your visit. TikTok

🚗 Ample Free Parking

Convenient free parking is available, making it easy to access the plaza. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(498 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Water Tower Plaza as a cool oasis in Downtown Gilbert, highlighting the renovated splash pad as a hit with kids and families. The plaza is noted for its pleasant atmosphere, especially in the mornings and evenings, and its role as a venue for free community events like concerts. While generally well-loved, some may find it a bit small for extended visits.

"A cool oasis in Downtown Gilbert.

Home of the Gilbert Water Tower, this small park has a grassy hill, water play area and plenty of seating. A great space to visit in the mornings & evenings for great views of the sunrise & sunset. This is a good place for portrait photography, too.

(Updated): the town recently completed an upgrade to the Water Tower Plaza. This includes a renovated splash pad, new public restrooms, and a newer grassy area. The splash pad also has seating and a shade canopy. All of this ups the family friendly space with more room for playtime ..and lots more ways to get soaked.

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza continues to be a great place to relax, cool off, and see free shows. If you are in the area stop by"

James Kamb

"Nice place for big and small kids to cool down on those hot summer days! 🔥"

N Guzman

"family friendly place to relax and enjoy all Gilbert has to offer. under the water tower there are plenty of chairs to sit and relax, I like to come and read during the week. the newly renovated water pad is a great place to cool off. fun for all ages. there are plenty of tables and chairs to have your lunch, play a competitive game of chess or gather with friends and family. there is a large grassy area for children to play ,have a picnic with friends or play with your furry friends (remember to pick up after your furry friends ) At night the plaza lights up, whether you are coming out of the theater and want to talk about the play you saw at the Hale Centre theater or just want to let your meal digest from one of the many restaurants on Gilbert rd. Gilbert water tower plaza is the place for you."

omar casillas

What People Like

Renovated splash pad
Family-friendly atmosphere
Free community events

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Water Tower Plaza is located in Downtown Gilbert at 45 W Page Avenue, Gilbert, AZ 85296. It's easily accessible by car, with plenty of free parking available. TikTok

While specific bus routes can vary, Downtown Gilbert is generally served by local public transit. Check the Valley Metro website for the most up-to-date route information for your starting point.

There is ample free parking available around the plaza, making it convenient for visitors. TikTok

Yes, the plaza is very walkable and is a central hub within Downtown Gilbert, surrounded by shops and restaurants.

Absolutely! There are bike racks available at the plaza, making it a great destination for cyclists exploring the area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Water Tower Plaza is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy. TikTok

The splash pad at Water Tower Plaza is open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. TikTokInstagram

Yes, public restrooms are available at the Water Tower Plaza, which were upgraded during recent renovations. TikTokInstagram

The plaza is a public gathering space, and while there are benches and tables, specific event reservations are typically not required for casual use. For larger events, it's best to contact the Gilbert Parks and Recreation department.

The plaza itself is open year-round, though the splash pad's operation might be seasonal or weather-dependent in extreme conditions, but it's generally available during warmer months. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late evenings offer the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and capturing beautiful sunrise or sunset views. The plaza also lights up at night, offering a different photographic opportunity. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for professional shoots or commercial use, it's advisable to check with the local authorities or parks department for any specific permits or guidelines.

The iconic water tower itself provides a unique landmark. The splash pad, grassy areas, and surrounding downtown architecture offer diverse backdrops for creative shots. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and urban areas due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to check local ordinances or contact the town of Gilbert for specific regulations regarding drone operation.

Capture the water tower from different angles, the playful moments at the splash pad, and the vibrant atmosphere during evening events or when the plaza is lit up at night.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the plaza itself doesn't have dedicated restaurants, it's surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries in Downtown Gilbert, offering a wide variety of dining choices. TikTok

Yes, the plaza has picnic tables and a large grassy area, making it a perfect spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food or grab takeout from nearby restaurants. Reddit

Downtown Gilbert offers a diverse culinary scene, including options for casual dining, cafes, and more upscale experiences. TikTok

Instagram reels mention a weekday farmers market from 4-8 PM at The Factory at Franklin's Water Tower Plaza in Tennessee, but this is not associated with the Gilbert, Arizona location. Instagram+1

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in the park. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Water Tower Plaza is a dream for families! The star attraction is the splash pad, perfect for cooling off on scorching Arizona days. TikTokInstagram It features fun water jets and a spinning ball, ensuring endless entertainment. Remember to pack towels and a change of clothes! The grassy amphitheater is ideal for picnics or letting kids burn off energy. With new restrooms and plenty of seating, it's designed for comfort and convenience. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Water Tower Plaza offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. The iconic water tower provides a striking architectural element, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Reddit The splash pad, when active, offers dynamic shots of water in motion and joyful expressions. The plaza also transforms at night with ambient lighting, creating a different mood for evening photography. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Explorers

If you enjoy exploring on foot, Water Tower Plaza is a perfect stop. It's centrally located in Downtown Gilbert, making it easy to combine with visits to nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants. TikTok The plaza itself is very walkable, with paved paths connecting the main features. It's a great place to take a break, enjoy a coffee, or simply people-watch. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub for Family Fun

Water Tower Plaza is a beloved destination for families, largely thanks to its recently renovated splash pad. This interactive water play area features a spinning granite ball water feature and water wall, providing hours of entertainment for children on hot Arizona days. TikTokInstagram+1 The surrounding grassy turf amphitheater and ample seating, including cafe tables and chairs, make it easy for parents to relax while keeping an eye on their little ones. The addition of new public restrooms further enhances the family-friendly nature of the space. Reddit

Beyond the splash pad, the open grassy areas are perfect for kids to run around, play games, or have a picnic. The plaza's design encourages active play and provides a safe, engaging environment for children of all ages to cool off and have fun. Reddit It's a place where families can create lasting memories, especially during the warmer months when the splash pad is in full swing.

Community Gathering Space & Events

The Water Tower Plaza serves as a vibrant community hub, especially in the evenings. It's a popular spot for free events, most notably the 'Concerts in the Park' series held on Thursdays in October. Instagram+1 Residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, grab takeout from local restaurants, and enjoy live music under the stars. This creates a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere for the community to come together. Reddit

Beyond the concert series, the plaza is a gathering place for various local activities and nightlife. It's a common destination for people heading to or from the Hale Centre Theatre, or simply looking for a lively spot to digest a meal from one of the many nearby restaurants on Gilbert Road. Reddit The plaza's transformation after its renovation has solidified its role as a central point for social interaction and entertainment in Downtown Gilbert, offering an energetic vibe that appeals to a wide range of visitors. Instagram+1

History and Renovation

The Gilbert Water Tower itself is a historic landmark, dating back to 1927. It originally served the crucial purpose of storing water for firefighting and drinking for the community until 1985. Instagram Recognizing its historical significance and the need for modernization, the plaza underwent a significant $5.9 million upgrade. Instagram This extensive renovation, which took nearly a year, aimed to enhance the existing features and introduce new amenities to better serve the community. Instagram+1

The renovation focused on improving the visitor experience, including the popular splash pad, adding new public restrooms, and enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space. Instagram The goal was to transform the area into a more dynamic and family-friendly gathering place while respecting its historical roots. Instagram The revitalized plaza now stands as a testament to Gilbert's commitment to preserving its heritage while investing in modern community spaces.

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