Fountain Hills, Arizona

Things to Do, Attractions and Points of Interest

Fountain Hills offers a wide range of recreational activities and attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy:

– Fountain Park: Home to the famous Fountain, this 64-acre park features walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a splash pad. The park hosts various events throughout the year, including art fairs, concerts, and holiday celebrations.
– McDowell Mountain Regional Park: Located just north of Fountain Hills, this expansive park offers over 40 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as camping and picnic facilities.
– Desert Canyon Golf Club: This 18-hole championship golf course provides a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience, with beautiful views of the surrounding desert landscape.
– Fountain Hills Theater: This local community theater produces plays, musicals, and concerts, showcasing the talent and creativity of local performers and artists.

Places to Stay

Fountain Hills offers a range of accommodations for visitors, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. Some popular places to stay in the area include the Inn at Eagle Mountain, CopperWynd Resort & Club, and the Lexington Hotel & Suites.

Government Structure

Fountain Hills operates under the council-manager form of government, with a seven-member Town Council, including the Mayor, elected by the residents. The Town Council appoints a Town Manager, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the town and its various departments.

Clubs and Organizations

Fountain Hills is home to numerous clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests and hobbies. These groups provide opportunities for residents to get involved in their community, make new friends, and pursue their passions. Some of these clubs and organizations include the Fountain Hills Cultural and Civic Association, the Fountain Hills Artists’ Gallery, the Fountain Hills Community Chorus, and the Fountain Hills Rotary Club.

In summary, Fountain Hills, Arizona, is a beautiful and vibrant community that offers a high quality of life, a wide range of recreational opportunities, and astrong sense of community. With its stunning natural surroundings, excellent schools, and diverse array of attractions and amenities, Fountain Hills is a welcoming and engaging destination in the heart of Arizona.

Art and Culture

Fountain Hills is committed to promoting art and culture within the community. The town is home to several galleries and art events that showcase the work of local and regional artists. Some notable art and cultural attractions include:

– Fountain Hills Public Art Program: This program, managed by the Fountain Hills Cultural and Civic Association, is dedicated to the acquisition, display, and preservation of public art throughout the town. The collection features over 150 pieces, including sculptures, murals, and other installations, located in parks, roundabouts, and other public spaces.
– Fountain Hills Artists’ Gallery: This cooperative gallery features the work of more than 30 local artists, offering a diverse range of art, including paintings, sculpture, photography, and jewelry. The gallery also hosts workshops and special events throughout the year.
– Fountain Hills Great Fair: Held annually, this three-day art fair showcases the work of over 400 artists and craftsmen from across the country. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and a variety of art demonstrations.

Climate

Fountain Hills enjoys a desert climate with hot summers, mild winters, and abundant sunshine. The town’s average annual high temperature is around 87°F (30°C), while the average annual low temperature is approximately 58°F (14°C). Fountain Hills receives about 12 inches (305 mm) of rainfall per year, with the majority of precipitation occurring during the summer monsoon season.

Community Involvement

Fountain Hills prides itself on its strong sense of community and encourages residents to get involved in various clubs, organizations, and volunteer opportunities. Some ways to get involved in the community include joining local service clubs such as the Rotary Club, participating in community events like the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade, or volunteering with the town’s Parks and Recreation Department.

Sports and Recreation

In addition to the numerous outdoor recreational opportunities mentioned earlier, Fountain Hills offers a variety of sports and fitness facilities, including the Fountain Hills Community Center, which features a gymnasium, fitness center, and multi-purpose rooms for classes and activities. The town also has several parks with sports fields and courts for soccer, baseball, basketball, and tennis, as well as a skate park and disc golf course.

Dining and Nightlife

Fountain Hills offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual cafes and bistros to upscale restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, including American, Italian, Mexican, and Asian fare. The town also has several bars and pubs, offering live music, karaoke, and other entertainment options.

Local Festivals and Events

Fountain Hills hosts a variety of annual events and festivals, celebrating the arts, culture, and community spirit. Some popular events include:

– Fountain Hills Music Fest: This annual event features live music from local and national artists, food vendors, and a beer garden, all set against the backdrop of Fountain Park and the famous Fountain.
– Fountain Hills Oktoberfest: This traditional German festival features live music, dancing, food, and plenty of beer, attracting visitors from all over the region.
– St. Patrick’s Day Celebration: Each year, the town celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with a special event at Fountain Park, where the famous Fountain is dyed green for the occasion.

Notable Residents

Some notable residents of Fountain Hills include professional golfer Tom Lehman, former NFL player Mark May, and astronaut Carlos Noriega.

Transportation and Accessibility

Fountain Hills is easily accessible by car via State Route 87 and Shea Boulevard. The town is also served by Valley Metro, which provides public transportation services to the surrounding areas, including Phoenix and Scottsdale.

Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives

Fountain Hills is dedicated to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship within the community. The town has implemented various initiatives, such as recycling programs, water conservation measures, and energy efficiency projects, to reduce its environmental impact and preserve the area’s natural beauty.

Horseback Riding

Fountain Hills and the surrounding area offer several horseback riding opportunities for both experienced riders and beginners. Riding stables and equestrian centers provide guided trail rides and lessons, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful desert landscape on horseback. Some nearby options include Fort McDowell Adventures and Saguaro Lake Ranch.

Off-Road Trips

The desert terrain surrounding Fountain Hills is ideal for off-road adventures. Visitors can rent ATVs, UTVs, or Jeeps to explore the rugged landscape and enjoy the thrill of off-roading. Guided tours are also available, led by experienced guides who share their knowledge of the area’s history, geology, and wildlife. Nearby off-roading tour companies include Stellar Adventures and Desert Monsters Tours.

Ranching

Fountain Hills is located near several working cattle ranches, which offer visitors an authentic taste of the Arizona ranching lifestyle. Guests can participate in activities such as cattle drives, roping lessons, and horseback riding, while also learning about the history and culture of ranching in the region. Some nearby ranches that offer guest experiences include the Bar S Ranch and the Flying E Ranch.

Farming

Agriculture plays a significant role in the economy of the surrounding region, with several farms and orchards located near Fountain Hills. These farms offer a range of seasonal activities and experiences for visitors, such as picking fresh fruits and vegetables, attending farm-to-table dinners, and participating in harvest festivals. Some nearby farms include Schnepf Farms, Agritopia, and Queen Creek Olive Mill.

Clubs and Organizations 

In addition to the clubs and organizations mentioned earlier, Fountain Hills is home to various interest-based groups, including:

– Fountain Hills Photography Club: This group brings together photography enthusiasts to share their work, learn from one another, and participate in workshops, photo walks, and competitions.
– Fountain Hills Astronomy Club: This club promotes the appreciation and understanding of astronomy through educational presentations, star-gazing events, and telescope-building workshops.
– Fountain Hills Garden Club: This organization aims to promote gardening, horticulture, and environmental conservation in the community. Members participate in gardening workshops, plant sales, and community beautification projects.

Shopping and Retail 

Fountain Hills offers a variety of shopping options, from local boutiques and specialty stores to larger retail centers. Some popular shopping destinations in the area include:

– Fountain Hills Plaza: This shopping center features a mix of local shops and national retailers, offering clothing, home goods, and other merchandise.
– Fountain Hills Artists’ Market: Held seasonally, this outdoor market showcases the work of local artisans, including jewelry, pottery, textiles, and other handcrafted items.
– Bashas’: This Arizona-based supermarket chain has a location in Fountain Hills, offering groceries, fresh produce, and specialty items.

Public Art and Cultural Attractions 

In addition to the art and cultural attractions mentioned earlier, Fountain Hills is home to several other noteworthy public art installations and cultural sites:

– Fountain Hills Veterans Memorial: This memorial, located in Fountain Park, honors the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The memorial features a series of bronze statues representing each branch of the military, along with a central obelisk and plaques commemorating local veterans.
– Fountain Hills River of Time Museum: This museum explores the history of the Lower Verde River Valley, including the Native American, pioneer, and modern eras. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of the region’s diverse cultural heritage.

Transportation and Accessibility 

For residents and visitors who prefer not to drive, Fountain Hills offers alternative transportation options, including:

– Fountain Hills Shuttle: This local shuttle service provides door-to-door transportation within the town, as well as connections to nearby shopping centers and medical facilities.
– RideChoice: This program, offered in partnership with Valley Metro, provides eligible residents with access to discounted taxi and rideshare services for transportation to medical appointments, work, or other essential destinations.

Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives

Fountain Hills continues to expand its sustainability efforts through various programs and initiatives:

– Dark Sky Community: In 2018, Fountain Hills was designated as an International Dark Sky Community by the International Dark-Sky Association, in recognition of the town’s commitment to preserving the night sky through responsible lighting practices and public education.
– Earth Day Celebration: Each year, the town hosts an Earth Day celebration to promote environmental awareness and sustainability. The event features educational exhibits, demonstrations, and activities for all ages.
– Adopt-a-Street Program: This program encourages community members to take an active role in keeping the town clean and litter-free by adopting a section of a local street and committing to regular clean-up efforts.

Fountain Hills, Arizona, truly offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community. Introduction

Fountain Hills, Arizona, is a picturesque desert community located just east of Scottsdale and north of Mesa. Known for its iconic fountain, the town boasts a rich history, a diverse economy, and a myriad of recreational and cultural attractions. This guide will cover the topics requested, providing an in-depth look at Fountain Hills and the many aspects that make it a unique and desirable place to live, work, and visit.

Detailed History

Fountain Hills was established in 1970 by developer Robert McCulloch, who envisioned the area as a master-planned community. The centerpiece of the town is the world-famous fountain, which was designed by architect Charles Wood Jr. and completed in 1971. At the time of its construction, the fountain was the tallest in the world, reaching a height of 560 feet. Today, it remains one of the world’s tallest fountains and is a symbol of the community.

Over the years, Fountain Hills has grown and evolved, with new residential developments, commercial areas, and recreational facilities, all designed to maintain the natural beauty and quality of life that the town is known for.

Location from Phoenix, Arizona

Fountain Hills is located approximately 29 miles northeast of Phoenix, making it an easy commute for those who work in the city but prefer to live in a more serene, suburban setting. The town is accessible via State Route 87 and the Red Mountain Freeway (State Route 202).

Economy

The economy of Fountain Hills is diverse, with a mix of small businesses, retail establishments, professional services, and light industry. Major employers in the area include the Fountain Hills Unified School District, the Town of Fountain Hills, and Fort McDowell Casino. Additionally, the town is located near several technology and healthcare corridors, providing employment opportunities for residents.

Educational Opportunities

Fountain Hills is served by the Fountain Hills Unified School District, which includes two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The town is also home to the Fountain Hills Charter School, which offers a curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) for students in grades K-8.

For higher education, Fountain Hills residents have access to nearby community colleges and universities, including Scottsdale Community College, Mesa Community College, and Arizona State University.

Healthcare

Fountain Hills is home to the HonorHealth Medical Group Fountain Hills, which offers primary and specialty care services. For more comprehensive healthcare needs, residents can access several major hospitals and medical centers in the nearby Phoenix and Scottsdale areas, such as Mayo Clinic, HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center, and Banner Desert Medical Center.

Real Estate

Fountain Hills offers a range of housing options, from single-family homes and townhouses to luxury estates and custom-built properties. The town is known for its scenic views and spacious lots, with many homes situated on or near golf courses, desert preserves, and the McDowell Mountains.

Things to Do

Fountain Hills provides residents and visitors with a wealth of recreational and cultural opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the surrounding McDowell Mountain Regional Park, while golfers can tee off at one of the several championship golf courses in the area, such as the Eagle Mountain Golf Club and the SunRidge Canyon Golf Club.

In addition to outdoor activities, Fountain Hills offers a vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is home to the Fountain Hills Theater, which hosts live performances and events throughout the year, and the Fountain Hills Great Fair, an annual art festival that features the work of hundreds of artists from around the country.

Attractions and Points of Interest

Some of the most popular attractions and points of interest in Fountain Hills include:

– The Fountain: The town’s namesake attraction, this iconic fountain shoots water 330 feet into the air for 15 minutes every hour between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. The fountain is located in Fountain Park, a 64-acre park that also features a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
– McDowell Mountain Regional Park: This expansive park offers more than 40 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as campgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
– Fountain Hills Botanical Garden: This 8-acre garden showcases the diverse flora of the Sonoran Desert, with over 100 plant species, walking trails, and a butterfly garden.

Places to Stay

Fountain Hills offers a variety of lodging options, from hotels and motels to vacation rentals and bed and breakfasts. Some popular accommodations in the area include the Inn at Eagle Mountain, the CopperWynd Resort, and the Comfort Inn Fountain Hills.

Government Structure

The Town of Fountain Hills operates under a council-manager form of government, with a seven-member Town Council, including a directly-elected mayor. The Town Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the town and implementing policies set by the council. Key departments and agencies