Fountain Hills is a small, scenic desert community located east of Scottsdale and about 45 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport. The town is surrounded by mountains with sweeping mountain views including Four Peaks, the Superstition Mountains and the McDowell Mountains, and boasts a natural desert landscape.

Even though Fountain Hills is a town and not a city, and it is a relatively small community compared to some of its neighbors, there is still plenty to do there. Here are some of my top picks for attractions and activities in Fountain Hills, Arizona:

With a name like Fountain Hills, of course there is a fountain. But not just any fountain. Built 30 years ago, this dramatic landmark is a centerpiece of the town in Fountain Park.

The fountain is located in the middle of a man-made 28-acre lake in the heart of Fountain Hills. One of the world's highest fountains, the 560-foot tall plume of water, shoots to the sky and is visible for many miles. The Fountain spouts on the hour for 15 minutes every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

There are several beautiful golf courses in the beautiful surroundings of Fountain Hills.

Fountain Hills really knows how to put on a party! The Fountain Hills Great Fair takes place each February. Over 500 artists and artisans line the Avenue of the Fountains Boulevard and a variety of music and food make this Fair another 'must do' event for the Town. The annual Hot Air Balloon Rally, which is a highlight of the Fair, takes off early Sunday morning. Then, in November, you can enjoy the Fountain Hills Festival of Arts and Crafts . This Festival attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year to enjoy the artwork, the entertainment, the food and the hospitality of Fountain Hills.

Out of Africa Wildlife Park is not really a zoo. There are shows throughout the day where animals can just be themselves, and the humans provide fun and interesting information about them to the audience.

At Fort McDowell Adventures you can experience the wild west just minutes from one of the biggest cities in the country. Located on the 25,000 acre Yavapai Indian Reservation, you can enjoy horseback riding, cattle drives, hayrides and much more.

Enjoy boating and fishing? Saguaro Lake is close by!

One of the favorite pastimes in the Phoenix area is riding an inner tube down the Verde and Salt rivers just southeast of Fountain Hills. Salt River Tubing & Recreation will help you have a great time on the river.

Interested in camping, hiking, biking or horseback riding? McDowell Mountain Regional Park is one of the largest and most scenic recreational areas in Maricopa County.

Fort McDowell Casino boasts the state's largest card room, classes and free entertainment. Try your luck!

Fountain Hills Community Theatre is a small, non-profit theatre presenting shows throughout the year for both the general community as well as for children.

River of Time Museum was developed by members of the Fountain Hills and Lower Verde River Valley Historical Society.