Check out art galleries, vast desert canyons and one of the world’s tallest fountains reach into the sky against a backdrop of the purple-hued McDowell Mountains.
The Town of Fountain Hills is a stunning oasis in the middle of the Arizonan desert. Explore the town’s exciting art trails and creative studios, take in the sights of a world-famous fountain or discover the surrounding region, where stunning mountain ranges roll out as far as the eye can see.
The town is named for its breathtaking man-made fountain, which bursts forth out of the center of Fountain Hills Lake. A local Arizona entrepreneur, Robert McCulloch, built the fountain in 1970. The pride of the town and a truly spectacular sight, the fountain can reach a height of 560 feet (170 meters) on special occasions, making it taller than the Washington Monument, Paris’ Notre Dame Cathedral and the Great Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt. Stroll around Fountain Park and you’ll see the monument reach its everyday height of 330 feet (100 meters) every hour. Pack a picnic and enjoy the show or hike along the Lake Overlook Trail for stunning views across the town and beyond.
Downtown, you’ll find a selection of intriguing galleries and local landmarks. Embark on the Fountain Hills Public Art Walk to see 150 different artworks dotted throughout the streets and parks. Grab a map and a guide from the local tourism office or join a docent-led tour for a local insight into the art pieces. Stop by the Fountain Hills Artists’ Gallery or the Fountain Hills Theater to experience some more local culture. Learn about the region’s heritage at the River of Time Museum, which highlights the Yavapai people, Fort McDowell and the mining prospectors who sought gold and found amethyst.
Explore Fountain Hills’ mesmerizing desert landscapes to reach breathtaking viewpoints and experience Arizona’s spirit for adventure. Go hiking or biking in the McDowell Mountain Preserve or check out Tonto National Park. Visit nearby Saguaro Lake for paddleboat or kayak tour. Ride through the desert hills on horseback or in a four-wheel drive buggy.
The town of Fountain Hills is located in central Arizona and is a half-hour drive from Phoenix’s international airport. The region has plenty of sunny days and mild winters, ensuring you can have outdoors adventures almost year-round.