Speak Up: Fountain Hills Dairy Queen draws discourse

With all the hype and excitement for the return of Dairy Queen to Fountain Hills, the process remains ongoing as the town council unanimously voted to extend its special use permit during its meeting on Tuesday, June 2. 

The permit was initially approved by the council during its meeting on Dec. 16, 2025, and it allows for the removal of nine parking spaces directly south of the proposed Grill & Chill located at the corner of Saguaro and Palisades Boulevard for a second drive-through lane. 

Here are some comments from area readers:

Fountain Hills Dairy Queen extends permit for drive-thru

“Excited to have it close by.” — Marilyn P.

“Love DQ, but I think a better location would have been the old KFC by Target. Already a couple of ice cream shops in town. Location on Shea would have the Shea traffic for customers.” — Sharon F.

“Dairy Queen and drive thru were in the exact place years ago, it is a blast from the past!” — Deborah T.

“Odd they are coming back again. What will be different to make them succeed in Fountain Hills this time?” — Lola P.

“If I remember correctly the owner closed it because it was so difficult to get help.” — Deborah T.

“…Will attract more business before and after events in town. Should be a winner in Fountain Hills.” — Keith A.