More $100 and Under Experiences
Meandering, Strolling and Admiring
My perfect day in Fountain Hills is getting up early, catching a cup of coffee at Mountainside Coffee Company and doing a few laps around the Fountain. I grab a great bagel and fresh-squeezed OJ at DJ’s Bagels and head to the Community Center, where I relax at a table behind the Center reading the paper. I spend some time appreciating the artwork placed around and in the Center. Meandering down the Avenue of the Fountains, I poke around the shops picking out a cactus picture book from Gridley’s for my afternoon excursion to the rustic botanical garden at the top of Kingstree. Back to check out the River of Time Museum, then a lazy lunch at CopperWynd on the patio, of course. An evening glass of wine and a light dinner as I listen to the musicians and muse at the view at the VU.
Submitted by Beverly Belury, Fountain Hills, AZ
Exercising the Senses
My perfect day in Fountain Hills would start with coffee at Mountainside Coffee with my guest, three rounds around Fountain Park, a workout at Smart Bodies and a snack at the Octagon Café. After showering, we would shop for southwestern gifts on the Avenue of the Fountains, pick out a casual new top at Crystal Blues or Fountain Fashions, and relax with a milk shake at Chocofin Chocolatier. A manicure and pedicure at Villa Toscana Day Spa would top off the day, which we would celebrate with a glass of wine at sunset at Grapeables.
Submitted by Chris LaGreca, Fountain Hills, AZ
Out and About
My perfect day in Fountain Hills would begin with an early morning drive through town, entering Palisades Boulevard from Shea Boulevard. As I drive, my breath is taken away by the magnificent view of the many hills and the stunning views of the mountains in the background. I’d be enjoying the diverse and exquisite architecture, a mixture of Southwest, Taliesin and modern structures.
I’d continue driving until I get to Fountain Park, just in time to enjoy the magnificent view of the Fountain going up for 15 minutes on the hour. I’d stretch my legs with a stroll in Fountain Park, for a perfect time to take memorable pictures and make time to visit the many different stores in Fountain Plaza.
After all the sightseeing, it’s time for lunch. Fountain Hills has a variety of restaurants to choose from, offering Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican and International cuisine. A perfect spot for a light and healthy lunch is Octagon Café, known for their wonderful salads and variety of sandwiches and soups. This quaint restaurant with artistic ambiance is perfectly located across from Fountain Park.
I’ll continue my sightseeing with a walk along the Avenue of the Fountains. There you will find many shops, from ladies’ apparels, souvenir shops and luxurious jewelry stores and galleries, such as Sami’s Fine Jewelry and Yates Gallery. While on the Avenue, I’ll have the opportunity to visit the newly built Town Hall, conveniently situated next to the Fountain Hills Library, Community Center, and River of Time Museum – all perfect places to visit.
It’s now time to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with a variety of pastries at Fontini’s Café and Bakery, located on LaMontana Drive. Once my energy is back, I’ll continue my sightseeing for additional breathtaking views and picture-taking with a drive to the Marina at Saguaro Lake, only 25 minutes away.
By now, I’d have build up an appetite. It’s time to come back to town to enjoy a wonder Italian meal with a taste of Latin Cuisine at Terra Nostra Restaurant, located on Palisades Boulevard.
Submitted by Susan Trocki, Fountain Hills, AZ
$500 & Under $250 & Under