Summary of Fountain Hills Attractions
Fountain Hills is a small, scenic desert community located east of Scottsdale and about 45 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport. The town is surrounded by mountains, providing sweeping views that include Four Peaks, the Superstition Mountains, and the McDowell Mountains, while boasting a stunning natural desert landscape. Bikers often prioritize the scenic ride to Fountain Hills and Bartlett Lake.
Despite being a small community compared to some of its neighbors, Fountain Hills offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors.
Attractions and Activities
- Fountain Hills features a dramatic landmark—the fountain in Fountain Park. This fountain, standing over 30 years, is located in the middle of a man-made 28-acre lake. Emitting a stunning 560-foot tall plume of water, it is recognized as one of the world’s highest fountains and can be seen from miles away.
- Explore the rich history of Fountain Hills at the River of Time Museum. This small yet sophisticated museum is a highlight in the Greater Phoenix area, offering insights into the local history for a minor entrance fee.
- Golf enthusiasts can enjoy several beautiful golf courses in the picturesque surroundings of Fountain Hills.
- Fountain Hills knows how to throw a great event! The Fountain Hills Great Fair every February sees over 500 artists and artisans participating along the Avenue of the Fountains Boulevard, coupled with a variety of music and delicious food, making it a must-attend event. In March, the fountain becomes a spectacle as it turns (guess the color!) for the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, and in November, the Fountain Hills Festival of Arts and Crafts attracts over 200,000 visitors to enjoy art, entertainment, food, and the warmth of the community.
- Experience the Wild West at Fort McDowell Adventures, located just minutes from one of the largest cities in the U.S., where horseback riding, cattle drives, and hayrides await within the 25,000-acre Yavapai Indian Reservation.
- If you enjoy boating and fishing, Saguaro Lake is in close proximity, where you can also take a leisurely, 90-minute narrated tour on the Desert Belle.
- During summer, many locals in the Phoenix area enjoy the fun of riding inner tubes down the Verde and Salt Rivers, just southeast of Fountain Hills. Salt River Tubing & Recreation offers services to enhance your river experience.
- For those interested in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, biking, or horseback riding, McDowell Mountain Regional Park is among the largest and most beautiful recreational areas in Maricopa County.
- Fort McDowell Casino, located adjacent to We-Ko-Pa Resort, offers the state’s largest card room along with classes and free entertainment, making it a great spot to test your luck.
- Fountain Hills Community Theatre is a small, non-profit theater presenting a variety of shows throughout the year for both the community and children.
- For jazz enthusiasts, from September through May, Jazz in the Hills brings together local and national jazz musicians at various locations, with general admission tickets available.
