Fountain Hills

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Fountain Hills's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Welcome to Fountain Hills
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Explore the Arts
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

On this day, start with a visit to the Fountain Hills Historical Museum to delve into the town's rich history. Discover fascinating exhibits that reveal the development of this unique community. A leisurely stroll through the quaint downtown area will take you to a local breakfast spot for a hearty meal.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a guided tour of the nearby Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation to learn about Native American culture and heritage. Hear inspiring stories of the indigenous people and explore local crafts that are unique to the area. Engage in a conversation with locals to enrich your understanding of their traditions.

evening
:

As night falls, attend a cultural event or festival if available, celebrating the diversity of Fountain Hills. If not, enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving native cuisine and spend some time mingling with the locals. Close the evening with a night walk, relishing the sounds of the desert night.

day 4
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Energize your day with a morning kayak or stand-up paddleboarding session on the fountain lake. Experience the tranquility of the water and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Afterward, treat yourself to a fulfilling brunch at a waterfront café.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring the rugged trails around the area suitable for mountain biking or horseback riding. Embrace the adventure as you navigate through scenic routes that offer stunning vistas of the Sonoran Desert. Don’t forget to keep your camera handy for some memorable pictures.

evening
:

Return to town to relax at one of Fountain Hills’ many outdoor lounges and savor a sunset cocktail. Enjoy the vibrant energy as locals and tourists come together, creating a friendly atmosphere. For dinner, choose a restaurant with a focus on farm-to-table dining to cap off an adventurous day.

day 5
Wellness Day
morning
:

Begin the day with a calming yoga session at the park, connecting with the natural surroundings and rejuvenating your spirit. After your session, sip on a refreshing green smoothie from a local health café to nourish your body. Spend some time meditating by the fountain, absorbing the peaceful ambiance.

afternoon
:

Treat yourself to a spa afternoon at one of the local wellness centers, indulging in massage therapies that soothe and relax. Spend extra time pampering yourself, experiencing holistic treatments that leave you feeling revitalized. For lunch, visit a nearby organic bistro that focuses on wholesome dishes.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, prepare for a quiet evening by having a light dinner at a vegan-friendly restaurant. Engage in a casual conversation with fellow diners and share wellness tips. Close your evening with a quiet book reading session at your accommodation, allowing the tranquility to linger.

day 6
Family Fun
morning
:

Plan a fun-filled day by kicking it off at the Fountain Hills Skatepark for some energetic outdoor activities. Whether you're skateboarding or just watching, this vibrant spot brings excitement for the whole family. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast together at a family-friendly diner.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Desert Canyon Golf Club for a family-friendly mini-golf session that promises entertainment for everyone. Enjoy the beautifully designed course while challenging each other to fun games. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park areas after your game.

evening
:

Wrap up your family day with a movie night at the local cinema, featuring family-friendly films. Indulge in popcorn and treats while experiencing the latest releases. After the movie, take an evening stroll along the fountain to chat about your day's adventures.

day 7
Nature Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at the Golden Eagle Trailhead for an invigorating hike that offers phenomenal desert views. Embrace the charm of nature as you take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding landscape. Prepare a quick breakfast to enjoy once you've reached your hiking spot.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the nearby Scottsdale Desert Botanical Garden, where you can explore the vast variety of desert plants and wildlife. Learn about the importance of conservation efforts as you move through the beautiful trails. Have lunch at a café within the garden, taking in the delightful surroundings.

evening
:

Return to Fountain Hills to enjoy an outdoor movie night at the park if the event is scheduled. Share a picnic dinner with family and friends as you watch an old favorite film under the stars. Conclude your evening with a stroll by the fountain, a perfect way to end a nature-filled day.

day 8
Culinary Tour
morning
:

Delight in a culinary adventure with a breakfast at a unique local eatery renowned for its fusion dishes. Each bite offers a taste of the town’s personality, setting the tone for a day centering around flavor. After breakfast, visit the Fountain Hills Farmer's Market to explore fresh produce and gourmet goods.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon participating in a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes with a modern twist. Get hands-on experience while making lasting memories with fellow food lovers. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal lunch featuring the creations made during class.

evening
:

For dinner, treat yourself to a gourmet meal at one of Fountain Hills' upscale restaurants that focuses on local ingredients. Engage with the chef to learn more about their culinary inspirations and techniques used in their dishes. Cap the evening off with a dessert tour, sampling sweet treats from various bakeries in town.

day 9
Relax and Unwind
morning
:

Take the final day to relax and unwind with a slow-paced morning, enjoying coffee and pastries from your favorite local spot. Reflect on your trip while soaking in the beautiful views of the fountain and park. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, allowing nature to rejuvenate your spirit.

afternoon
:

Visit some of the boutique shops in downtown Fountain Hills to pick up unique souvenirs to remember your stay. Engage with local artisans and shop owners, learning about the handmade crafts and goods available. Enjoy a light lunch at a café where you can savor the flavors of your last day.

evening
:

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with a distinctive view of the fountain, cherishing the moments from your trip. Take time to appreciate the vibrant atmosphere one last time while dining outdoors. As you conclude your stay, relish the sparkling water of the fountain against the backdrop of a heartwarming sunset.

Discover Fountain Hills

Read more in our Fountain Hills 2025 Travel Guide.

Fountain Hills Travel Guide