Southern Arizona Tour – Part 4: Gardens, Gatherings & Gilbert by Night

A day of desert beauty, community connection, and evening charm

We’re back with Part 4 of our Southern Arizona tour, continuing Day 2 (see Southern Arizona Tour - Part 3: Art, Wine & Hidden Histories) with an afternoon and evening full of serene landscapes, local flavors, and vibrant small-town energy. From the blooming trails of Boyce Thompson Arboretum to dinner and lights in historic Gilbert, this day offered the kind of slow travel experiences our guests—especially women over 50—truly appreciate.

🌵 Boyce Thompson Arboretum: A Desert Gem in Southern Arizona

Set against the rugged backdrop of the Sonoran Desert, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is one of the most beautiful and accessible botanical gardens in Arizona. This peaceful retreat invites visitors to explore global desert flora and connect with nature at their own pace.

We especially loved the Wallace Desert Garden, a 13-acre expansion showcasing more than 5,000 desert-adapted species from across the world. Winding paths, blooming cacti, and shaded alcoves made this stop both photogenic and soul-soothing—a highlight for any nature lover.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

Boyce Thompson Arboretum - Wallace Desert Garden

🌿 Agritopia: A Gilbert AZ Community Rooted in Purpose

Delight in a scoop of homemade goodness from Cream of the Crop Ice Cream, nestled in the heart of Agritopia, Gilbert, AZ.

Next, we explored Agritopia, one of the most forward-thinking communities in Arizona. This guided tour gave us a glimpse into how urban living can integrate with local agriculture and neighborly values.

Built around an organic farm, Agritopia features homes, schools, artisan businesses, and farm-to-table eateries—all within walking distance. Designed to encourage intergenerational connection and sustainability, it felt more like a village than a neighborhood.

The highlight? Sampling homemade ice cream from Cream of the Crop Ice Cream Shop, made with ingredients grown on-site. It was a delicious and refreshing way to support local and taste the land—literally!

🍽️ Dinner & Downtown Gilbert: Culture, Cuisine, and Community

A Warm Meal at Culinary Dropout in Gilbert

That evening, we gathered at Culinary Dropout, a lively, industrial-chic restaurant tucked into the heart of Gilbert’s Heritage District. Known for its elevated comfort food, playful vibe, and craft cocktails, Culinary Dropout delivered a fun, flavorful close to our day.

We dined in The Coop, their cozy and stylish group dining space designed for gatherings just like ours. Over a delicious buffet-style meal featuring favorites like house-made pretzels, seasonal salads, and slow-cooked mains, we relaxed, laughed, and shared stories from the road. It was the perfect mix of great food, easy conversation, and warm hospitality—Arizona style.

Private group dining at The Coop, Culinary Dropout in Gilbert, AZ offers a chic and inviting atmosphere, perfect for special gatherings.

Historic Highlights of Downtown Gilbert

Our evening walk through downtown Gilbert AZ introduced us to a town that blends small-town charm with big heart. Originally an agricultural hub, Gilbert has grown into a thriving district known for its restaurants, murals, and cultural venues.

We admired the glowing Gilbert Water Tower, a beloved landmark that now lights up the night, and learned about the local arts scene including the Hale Centre Theatre and Higley Center for the Performing Arts. It’s easy to see why Gilbert is becoming a favorite stop for travelers seeking authentic community experiences.

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, Downtown Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, Downtown Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, Downtown Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, Downtown Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, Downtown Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, Downtown Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, Downtown Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, Downtown Gilbert, AZ

🛏️ Mesa DoubleTree: Comfort and Cookies to End the Day

Sped a night or two at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Mesa, AZ - where comfort and convivence meet.

After our evening in Gilbert, we headed to the DoubleTree by Hilton in Mesa for a restful overnight stay. Their signature warm chocolate chip cookie was waiting for us at check-in—a sweet gesture that made everyone smile.

The rooms were cozy, the beds inviting, and the hotel’s location ideal for starting our next day of adventure.

🧭 Why This Day Matters: A Travel Experience for Women Over 50

This part of our Southern Arizona journey beautifully wove together natural beauty, community-centered living, and cultural charm. Whether it was walking desert trails, discovering intentional communities, or sharing stories over dinner, this day was filled with experiences that nourish the soul.

Stay tuned for Part 5, where we finish our 3-day journey through the heart of Southern Arizona, including a relaxing morning cruise aboard the charming Dolly Steamboat—surrounded by stunning canyon views and peaceful waters.