Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Fountain Hills, Arizona

Situated in the northeastern section of the ‘Valley of the Sun,’ Fountain Hills is an upscale suburb of Phoenix renowned for its stunning vistas, premier golf courses, and vibrant shopping, dining, and art galleries.

This locale is also in proximity to picturesque lakes, expansive nature reserves, and significant historical sites, many of which are located in neighboring Scottsdale and Cave Creek.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the optimal months to visit are from October to March, during which the weather is idyllic and numerous outdoor pursuits are available.

Outlined below are 15 activities to consider while in Fountain Hills.

1. Visit the Fountain

If you wish to witness the iconic fountain that lends its name to the town, a visit to Fountain Park should be your initial stop.

At its peak, the fountain shoots water nearly 600 feet into the air, surpassing the height of Yellowstone’s renowned Old Faithful.

The fountain operates daily from morning to evening, performing for approximately 10 to 15 minutes every hour. Therefore, if it is not functioning upon your arrival, feel free to linger for a while.

Established in the early 1970s, the park also features its own disc golf course.

2. Fountain Hills Botanical Gardens

When individuals think of Arizona, they often do not equate it with the diverse array of plants, trees, and wildflowers that thrive in its arid environment.

Conveniently located near the intersection of Fountain Hills and Kingstree Boulevards, the Fountain Hills Botanical Gardens are open for public visitation without charge.

The gardens feature numerous well-marked trails, with trail maps available at the entrance, allowing visitors to explore without apprehension of losing their way.

A small dam marks the trail’s conclusion, with various plants in the area attracting numerous birds, insects, and other desert fauna, primarily visible in the early morning and evening.

3. Play a Few Rounds

Arizona stands as one of the United States’ premier golf destinations, particularly throughout the winter months when much of the country experiences severe cold and snowfall.

With a higher concentration of acclaimed courses per square mile than almost anywhere in the world, Fountain Hills and nearby Scottsdale are essential locales for every golf enthusiast.

While many of these courses may be too costly for average golfers during the winter, summer rates range from $30 to $50.

If you choose to visit during this time, remember to stay hydrated and consider renting a golf cart.

4. Dixie Mine Trail

Arizona offers an extensive network of hiking trails that traverse some of the nation’s most arid, striking, and captivating landscapes.

The Dixie Mine Trail begins within a private community. However, once you embark on the trail, you’ll quickly immerse yourself in the wilderness, with the sounds and sights of the urban environment fading into the background.

Named after a mine located at the end of the trail, visitors can glimpse into the dark recesses of the covered mineshaft, which is not accessible.

Ample parking and restroom facilities are available, and it is possible to spot a desert tortoise or two if you arrive early.

5. Fountain Hills Artist’s Gallery

Nestled on East Avenue of the Fountains, the Fountain Hills Artist’s Gallery operates as a cooperative that showcases and sells artwork, primarily from local and southwestern artists.

Whether you are simply exploring the gallery or in search of a unique oil painting for your home, a specially crafted turquoise belt for a loved one, or a hand-blown glass vase, you will likely discover something of interest.

The gallery also provides art classes, many of which are enhanced by the option of bringing wine along.

It is conveniently positioned directly across North Saguaro Boulevard from Fountain Park.

6. Fountain Hills Great Fair

Situated on North Saguaro Boulevard in Fountain Hills, the Fountain Hills Great Fair has been a tradition since 1974.

Over the course of three days each year, the fair showcases the works of nearly 500 artists, many of whom hail from the southwestern United States. While a variety of subjects are represented, a distinct southwestern motif prevails throughout the displays.

Aside from art, attendees can enjoy an array of delectable food, jewelry, and clothing offerings.

This fair typically occurs in November. If you have not yet experienced this event, it presents an excellent opportunity to visit Arizona, particularly if you appreciate sunny days with pleasant temperatures in the low 80s.

7. The River of Time Museum

The River of Time Museum is designed to educate both children and adults about the geological transformations that have occurred over time. Conveniently located in downtown Fountain Hills, it is a must-visit destination in the area.

The museum shares its premises with the local library, which also merits a visit, even if only to enjoy the air-conditioning and read a few pages of literature.

An admission fee for the museum is quite minimal. On occasion, enthusiastic volunteers may offer guided tours.

Besides geology, the museum features exhibits and artifacts representing the Native American populations that have inhabited the region for centuries.

8. Saguaro Lake

With nearly 1,300 acres of surface area, Saguaro Lake ranks as the fourth largest lake formed by the damming of the Salt River.

Situated within the Tonto National Forest, the lake is a relatively short journey from Fountain Hills.

The awe-inspiring canyon walls surrounding the lake can be appreciated from both land and water perspectives.

For those preferring boat tours, a variety of options are available, including sunset and dinner cruises, which are particularly spectacular.

Additionally, local anglers frequent the lake in pursuit of large and smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and walleye.

9. Lake Overlook Trail

Another easily accessible trail from downtown Fountain Hills, the Lake Overlook Trail spans approximately one and a half miles, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

Thanks to its gradual elevation, the view of the town from the trail is breathtaking, particularly when seen during the twilight hours as the Arizona sky dims.

If you wish to extend your hike, additional intersecting trails are nearby; collectively, most maintain a maximum length of three miles.

The easiest access point for parking is Fountain Park, from which you can simply stroll across the street to the trailhead.

10. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

Positioned to the east of Arizona Route 101, adjacent to the Fort McDowell Indian Reservation, McDowell Mountain Regional Park features nearly 50 miles of trails accessible to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

The park offers trails of varying lengths and difficulties, making it simple to find suitable options for all participants.

Among the more popular trails for those wishing to enjoy a moderate level of activity, the North Trail is approximately three miles long with minimal elevation change.

The park is operational every day of the year, rain or shine, and entrance does not incur a fee.

11. Taliesin West

Frank Lloyd Wright is recognized as a globally influential architect, celebrated for his innovative designs that seamlessly connect the natural and constructed environments.

Taliesin West served as both his winter residence and studio, embodying the principles of his architectural philosophy.

Significantly, much of the structure was built by hand, with assistance from many of his students eager to collaborate with such a prominent figure.

The tours last just under two hours and, while not inexpensive, provide substantial insight into his legacy and are generally deemed a worthwhile investment.

12. McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Encompassing nearly 31,000 acres, McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale is recognized as the largest urban park of its kind in the United States.

Although technically classified as an urban park, the majority of the preserve is remote enough from the disturbances of urban life, allowing visitors to experience a sense of tranquility.

Featuring approximately 200 miles of trails that are free to access year-round, there are also ample parking facilities available.

The Sonoran Desert within this preserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife and numerous cacti, with many plants showcasing vibrant blooms during the spring season.

Consider checking online for a trail map or obtaining one at the visitor center before your exploration.

13. Pinnacle Peak Park

Though only 150 acres in size, Pinnacle Peak Park remains a popular choice among locals due to its well-maintained trails and abundance of wildlife.

This park provides shelter to a variety of animals, including coyotes, javelinas, bobcats, deer, as well as snakes and Gila monsters.

To maximize your chances of observing wildlife, consider visiting early in the morning or at dusk, as many desert creatures are beginning their activities during these times.

The park is open to the public without any admission fees.

14. Historic Cave Creek

Cave Creek’s motto is ‘Where the Wild West Lives,’ and following a visit to this picturesque desert town, one can readily understand why.

Featuring museums, excellent dining establishments, and a multitude of historically restored buildings, Cave Creek offers a glimpse into the past.

Conversely, Cave Creek is also known for its upscale venues, including elegant restaurants and art galleries, where visitors may find themselves paying a significant amount for an original oil painting or bronze sculpture.

Throughout the year, Cave Creek hosts numerous events, particularly during the winter months when the climate is exceptionally pleasant.

15. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Area

Located in Scottsdale, the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Area operates as a nonprofit rehabilitation center focused on wild animals that have been injured or abandoned.

The facility aims to reintroduce rehabilitated creatures into their natural environments, achieving success nearly 70% of the time.

Animals that are unable to survive in the wild are provided with permanent care at the center.

Appointments are required for tours, where visitors can meet dedicated volunteers and observe a variety of well-cared-for animals.

Some of the center’s inhabitants include a leopard, mountain lions, and a Mexican grey wolf.