Fontana Area

With a population of slightly more than 220 persons, Fontana is Miami County’s smallest city. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm.

Incorporated in 1889, this tight-knit community has worked hard to preserve the town’s heritage so visitors feel like they are stepping back to a simpler time. The small downtown area retains some of the original architecture, such as the original Fontana Bank and Fontana Jail. The former one-room schoolhouse has been renovated and serves as City Hall.

The jewel of Fontana is located along the marshlands that surround Marais Des Cygnes River. Operated by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the Miami State Fishing Lake is a 101-acre treat for fishermen. The timbered hillsides of oak and hickory trees surrounding it are home to a booming whitetailed deer population. Initial stockings of the lake included largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and black crappie. Considered one of the best-kept secrets by local outdoorsman, nature’s peaceful sounds provide a break for visitors looking for a respite. Primitive campgrounds, a courtesy dock and a boat ramp are available. All out-of-state residents and Kansas residents 16 and older must have a valid license to fish in Kansas. State fishing licenses can be purchased online from KDWP.


Fontana provides visitors with ample opportunities to spend time outdoors.

Families looking for a location for their next potluck or family picnic should consider Fontana City Park. The park’s shelter house and picnic tables provide plenty of space to spread out in the shade while kids will enjoy room to run.

Fontana Fire Station Park offers more than just green space and picnic tables. Stop by to see and feel the antique fire pump well, something firefighters relied on before the creation of fire hydrants.

For many families across the state, Christmastime means a day trip to the Fontana Pines Christmas Tree Farm. The farm opens for a few weekends in November and December and has a large selection of Scotch pines and Fraser fir trees that range from 5 to 14 feet tall. Families can trek through acres of trees until they find the perfect tree, then get into the frontier spirit by using a handsaw before dragging it back to the shelter house. Fraser fir trees are precut for those who prefer an easier option. As a reward for their successful search, families often celebrate with hot cider and candy canes while the Fontana Pines staff bundles the tree and secures it for the ride home.

Located just east of Fontana, Isinglass Estate boasts more than 600 acres of vines, trails, forests, berry patches, lakes and fields. With 12 wines to choose from, produced by grapes grown on-site, or specialty mixed drinks, well drinks, beer and more visitors are sure to find their favorite combination. Horse rides,

outdoor lawn games, cottages and a new tasting room provide an unforgettable family trip.

In true Midwestern hospitality, Fontana hosts several public events throughout the year.

A newer tradition in Fontana is the Family Drive-in Movie Night. A few times a year, families can park in the Fontana Christian Church parking lot and enjoy a free movie from the comfort of their cars.

In May, the American Legion #381 decorates graves at the Fontana cemetery the Friday before Memorial Day. On Memorial Day each year, the legion provides graveside services at Beagle, Cadmus and Fontana with lunch provided by Fontana Methodist Church.

In July, live music and free food are offered in the City Park during the Fontana Community Picnic. The picnic is a favorite for kids because of the inflatable water slide and gunny sack races. The event is cosponsored by the city and the community’s churches.

To mark October as Fire Prevention Month, the Fontana Fire Department opens its doors to families and children so they can tour the building and enjoy lunch with local fire and rescue crews. Kids will also get an up-close look at the business of saving lives. Later that month, a trunk-or-treat is co-hosted by the Fontana Church of Christ and the community’s recreation committee.

The first Saturday in November, the United Methodist Church marks the start of autumn with the Fall Supper. The meal features homemade chicken and noodles, ham and turkey.