Buckingham Fountain Chicago

At the heart of Grant Park, surrounded by the towering Chicago skyline and just a stone’s throw from Lake Michigan, sits the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain—one of the largest fountains in the world. More than just a decorative landmark, this grand spectacle is a tribute to both architectural beauty and mechanical innovation. Built in 1927, thanks to the generosity of philanthropist Kate Sturges Buckingham, the fountain honors her brother, Clarence Buckingham, and has been a symbol of Chicago’s elegance ever since.

 

With its cascading pools, intricate sea horse sculptures, and dramatic water displays, the fountain in Grant Park is a true spectacle—especially in the evening when colorful lights transform the water into a mesmerizing dance. Whether you're a local or a visitor, standing before the center jet shooting water 150 feet into the air is an experience that’s impossible to forget.

 

 

What to Know

This historic fountain isn't just a static monument—it’s a living, breathing display of artistry and engineering. The fountain produces a major water display for 20 minutes every hour, with major displays beginning daily at 9 a.m. The real magic happens in the evening, when choreographed water shows are synchronized with vibrant lights and music, making it a dazzling sight against the Chicago night sky.

 

Designed in the Beaux-Arts style, the fountain was modeled after the Latona Fountain at the Palace of Versailles. Its four sea horse sculptures represent the four U.S. states bordering Lake Michigan—Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana. This fountain is not just an attraction; it’s a piece of history. Discover the best of Chicago with a guided tour that takes you to the city's top landmarks, including Buckingham Fountain—Book your spot now!

 

How to Get There

Located at 301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, Buckingham Fountain is easily accessible by public transportation and on foot. If you're coming from downtown, you can walk through Grant Park to reach the fountain.

 

By Train (Chicago ‘L’):

The nearest stations are Harrison (Red Line) and Adams/Wabash (Brown, Purple, Pink, and Orange Lines)—both just a short walk away.

 

By Bus:

Routes 1, 126, 143, 147, and 28 stop near the fountain.

 

By Train (Metra):

The Van Buren Street Station is about a 7-minute walk away.

 

By Car:

There are several parking garages nearby, though street parking can be limited.

 

Want a Hassle-Free Visit? Take a Guided Tour!

For a seamless and unforgettable experience, consider joining the Scenic Chicago Night Tour. This guided tour takes you to Buckingham Fountain where you can witness its dazzling light and music show in the evening—one of the best ways to experience this Chicago landmark! What's more? A relaxing cruise, and visits to the Willis Tower, the famous Chicago Bean, and more! Enjoy expert insights, breathtaking skyline views, and a perfectly curated night in the city.

 

Best Time to Visit

While Buckingham Fountain is stunning at any time of day, the best time to visit is:

 

Early evening (dusk to nightfall):

The major display, a center jet shooting water 150 feet into the air, is even more breathtaking with the accompanying light and music show.

 

Early morning:

If you prefer a quieter experience, visit in the morning when the crowds are smaller, and the sunrise over Lake Michigan makes for a picture-perfect moment.

 

Spring and summer months:

From May through October, when the fountain is in full operation, you'll get the most out of its hour-on-the-hour displays.

 

Highlights & Features

 

Spectacular Water Shows

The fountain produces a major water display every hour on the hour for 20 minutes, featuring over 14,000 gallons per minute flowing through its 193 jets.

 

Evening Light and Music Show 

After dusk, the fountain transforms into a glowing masterpiece with colorful lights and synchronized music, creating a water display for 20 minutes every hour.

 

150-Foot Center Jet

The center jet shoots water into the air, making it one of the most dramatic fountains in the world.

 

Historic Art and Design

The fountain’s design is a tribute to Lake Michigan, with four sea horse statues representing Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana.

 

Perfect for Photos

With the Chicago skyline in the background and the Art Institute of Chicago nearby, it's one of the best places in the city for stunning photos.

 

Winter Decor

Even when the fountain in Grant Park isn’t running, it remains a visual highlight, often decorated with festive lights during winter.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When does Buckingham Fountain operate?
The fountain in Grant Park is in operation daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., typically from early May through mid-October, depending on the weather. During this period, the fountain produces a major water display every hour on the hour for 20 minutes.

 

How high does the fountain’s center jet shoot?

The center jet shoots water 150 feet into the air, making it one of the most striking water displays in the world.

 

Does the fountain have a light and music show?

Yes! Starting at dusk, the major displays begin daily and are synchronized with vibrant lights and music, creating an immersive spectacle.

 

What is the inspiration behind Buckingham Fountain’s design?

Modeled after the Latona Fountain at the Palace of Versailles, Buckingham Fountain represents Lake Michigan. The four sea horses at its base symbolize the states surrounding the lake: Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana.

 

How much water does the fountain hold?

The fountain’s basins contain a total of 1.5 million gallons of water, with 14,000 gallons per minute recirculated through its 193 jets during displays.

 

Is there an admission fee to visit the fountain?

No! Buckingham Fountain is completely free and open to the public, making it one of the best free attractions in Chicago.

 

How can I reach Buckingham Fountain using public transport?

The nearest Chicago 'L' stations are Harrison (Red Line) and Adams/Wabash (Brown, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines). Several bus routes, including 1, 126, 143, 147, and 28, stop nearby. The Van Buren Street Metra Station is also a short walk away.

 

Is the fountain open in winter?

While the fountain in Grant Park does not operate during the colder months, it remains a beautiful landmark. Sometimes, it’s adorned with festive lights in the winter.

 

Who funded the construction of Buckingham Fountain?

The fountain was a gift from Kate Sturges Buckingham, who funded it in memory of her brother, Clarence Buckingham. She also created an endowment to help maintain it.

 

Is Buckingham Fountain featured in any movies or TV shows?

Yes! The fountain is most famously recognized from the opening credits of Married... with Children and has appeared in several movies, including classic film noir and popular TV series.

 

Final Thoughts

Few landmarks capture the essence of Chicago quite like Buckingham Fountain. Whether you're admiring the grandeur of its hourly water displays, soaking in the tranquility of the park, or watching the major display, a center jet soaring 150 feet into the air, this fountain is a must-see. Plan your visit wisely, and don’t miss the chance to witness one of the most spectacular fountains in the world in all its glory.