Things To Do
in Fountain Hills
Fountain Hills sits in the Sonoran Desert of central Arizona, a scenic town just northeast of Phoenix. It is anchored by the towering Fountain Hills Fountain, one of the world’s tallest man-made fountains, which creates dramatic water displays on clear days. The town blends lush neighborhoods, art-filled streets, and easy access to dramatic desert scenery with views of surrounding mountains.
Visitors will find a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that invites strolling, outdoor recreation, and sunset photography against a vivid desert backdrop.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a relaxing morning walk around Fountain Park, home to one of the tallest fountains in the world. Enjoy the serene views as the sun rises, casting golden reflections on the park's lake. Grab a breakfast burrito from a nearby café and soak in the atmosphere.
After exploring the park, head to the nearby Fountain Hills Convention and Visitor Bureau to learn about local attractions and events. Dive into a culinary adventure for lunch at one of the charming restaurants downtown, experiencing the fusion of flavors that Fountain Hills offers. Spend your afternoon visiting the art galleries that showcase local artists and their work.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant with outdoor seating that overlooks the fountain. Enjoy a delightful dinner while the fountain creates a stunning backdrop illuminated by colorful lights. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the desert evening.
Kickstart your day at the Fountain Hills Artists' Gallery to appreciate the local art scene. Engage with artists and perhaps participate in a morning art class, tapping into your creative side. Afterward, enjoy a cup of coffee from a local café to fuel your exploration.
Take a scenic drive to the nearby McDowell Mountain Regional Park for an adventurous afternoon of hiking and nature exploration. Immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscapes while discovering the rich flora and fauna that inhabit the area. Remember to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings.
Conclude your day back in town by attending a live performance at the Fountain Hills Theatre. Embrace the local arts scene with a thrilling play or musical while savoring light refreshments. After the show, take a nightcap at a nearby bar, relishing the vibrant community atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $90-180 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic Fountain Hills Fountain as a centerpiece
- Abundant outdoor recreation and desert scenery
- Safe, family-friendly atmosphere
- Close proximity to Phoenix metro with easy day trips
- Limited nightlife and shopping compared to bigger cities
- Hot summers and seasonal monsoon rains can affect planning
- Some services may have seasonal hours
Places to Visit in Fountain Hills
Visit one of these nice places.
The world’s tallest fountain is the centerpiece; photograph at dawn for soft light or at dusk with the fountain lit and water spray catching the colors of the desert sky.
A scenic promenade encircling the fountain area with multiple decorative fountains and reflecting pools—great for wide-angle shots.
Elevated vantage point offering sweeping views of desert scrub, hills, and the town below.
Clear desert skies and soft colors create dramatic silhouettes of cacti and distant mountains.
Food in Fountain Hills
Fountain Hills Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, jalapeño salsa, and traditional condiments—popular at local taquerias and portable stands.
Must-Try!
A bright, refreshing salad featuring prickly pear cactus paddles, citrus, greens, and queso fresco.
Grilled beef served on warm tortillas with onions, cilantro, and lime—common in local Mexican spots.
Crispy cinnamon-sugar dough pastries served with melted chocolate for dipping.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, honey, breads, and handmade crafts; a great place to sample regional flavors.
Seasonal gatherings around the fountain area feature rotating food trucks offering tacos, quesadillas, and street-style bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stay on marked trails to protect delicate vegetation; avoid approaching wildlife and disturbing nesting birds.
Respect quiet hours in residential and lodging areas; keep noise to a minimum after dusk.
Ask for permission when photographing people; respect private property and event guidelines.
Safety
Tipping in Fountain Hills
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, standard tipping is 15–20% at restaurants; tip bartenders and service staff accordingly; rounding up at smaller venues is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always welcome; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming desert flora; ideal for hiking and outdoor festivals; bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
Very hot, often 100+ °F; schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; perfect for outdoor recreation and photography.
Mild to cool days with cooler nights; occasional rain; great for hiking without the extreme heat.
Fountain Hills at Night
Hiking in Fountain Hills
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic granite formations with scenic desert views; moderate to challenging, about 4 miles round trip.
Desert vistas with varied elevations; suitable for a range of hikers.
Popular nearby hike offering panoramic views; steady ascent and good overall fitness requirement.
Airports
How to reach Fountain Hills by plane.
Major international gateway about 25-40 miles southwest; typically 30-40 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Public-use general aviation airport, very close to town for private aviation.
Regional airport in Mesa with some commercial service; about 50 miles southeast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial retiree community drawn by the warm winters and resort-like lifestyle.
Suburban families seeking a safe, outdoor-oriented environment.
Snowbirds and visitors who spend winters in the area and explore local sights seasonally.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Multiple courses in and around Fountain Hills; a year-round draw for locals and visitors.
Desert hiking on the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and nearby parks is a major activity.
Public and private courts available; suitable for casual play and lessons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fountain Hills.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots offer veggie options; seek bean bowls, mushroom fajitas, veggie wraps, and salads. Many places can accommodate dairy-free requests with advance notice.
Many Mexican and American places provide gluten-free tortillas and naturally GF dishes; always confirm ingredients and cross-contamination practices.