Water Tower Plaza

The Water Tower Plaza of Gilbert is a 0.7 acre park area that opened in 2008. In the heart of Downtown Gilbert, the park forms a plaza surrounding the historic Gilbert Water Tower and Historic Adobe Pump House. Water Tower Plaza features water walls, a splash pad, a large granite floating ball, a system of steel runnels, and seating areas.

Originally constructed in 1927, the water tower became an emblem of the city and a source of great pride for all the members of the Gilbert community, where it operated until 1985 to store water for firefighting and later to store drinking water. The fate of the water tower was in doubt when the water tower went out of service, but the necessary measures were taken by the Gilbert Town Council and the water tower was preserved and the plaza was built.

Now restored, Gilbert's water tower is next to an old adobe pump house that was originally Gilbert's first jail. There are also water features added to the area to complement the history and significance of the water tower in the region. A 9.5 tonne granite ball called a kugel ball is one such water element. Give it a push and you can steer all of the 19,000 lbs with the aid of a thin layer of water.

A small pop-jet fountain splash play area is another water element that has been added where small children can enjoy some nice, wet fun and a water wall with a cantilever bench and illuminated blue glass windows.

From theatrical shows and minstrels, to arts and crafts fairs and street performers, the grassy field, permanent seating options and open plaza are ideal for multiple uses. A focal point of the Gilbert Heritage District is this central meeting space.

It's an absolutely stunning spot to visit. The tropical garden area is by far my favourite. There are plenty of good choices for food also available. Surprisingly, the coffee is good. The gardens are really child-friendly and have a play area as well!

There are lots of fantastic suppliers and a little bit of it all. There are lots of good trucks with a great range of things. Fresh fruits and vegetables, bakeries in the city, crafts and other products. A perfect way for your local small businesses to help them!

A sight to see is Downtown Gilbert. It is a wonderful place to find food and all kinds of shopping. It brings in a really classy vibe the brick and mortar feel of it. Water Tower Plaza is right in the centre, from food trucks and other items, hosting different activities year round.