must-visit in ChicagoSquare & Landmark

Buckingham Fountain

📍 Buckingham Fountain, 301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

1 photos

4/ 5.0

★★★★☆

Introduction

Buckingham Fountain is a magnificent large fountain in Chicago's Grant Park. One of Chicago's most famous landmarks, it is celebrated for its grand scale, spectacular water displays and elegant Rococo-inspired design, an iconic lakeside landmark. Completed in 1927 and designed by Edward Bennett, it was among the world's largest fountains — inspired by Versailles's Latona Fountain but larger. The pink-marble structure features four seahorse sculptures representing the four states of Lake Michigan (Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana and Michigan). A central jet shoots up to about 46 m (150 ft), surrounded by scores of smaller jets — especially spectacular at night with color-changing light shows. Located in the center of Grant Park facing Lake Michigan with Chicago's magnificent skyline behind, it is a classic spot for photographing the city. Typically operating May through October, the fountain puts on a main 20-minute water display at the top of each hour. Visiting Buckingham Fountain to enjoy the spectacular water and light show and photograph the Chicago skyline is a delightful urban experience.

✨ Highlights

Spectacular jets

Central jet up to 46 m (150 ft), surrounded by scores of smaller jets.

Night light show

Color-changing light shows at night — mesmerizing.

Skyline backdrop

Faces Lake Michigan with the Chicago skyline behind — classic photo spot.

Rococo design

Pink-marble Rococo-inspired design with four seahorse sculptures.

Season

The fountain normally runs from May to mid-October with a roughly 20-minute display on the hour; it is switched off in winter.

In Grant Park

Set in Grant Park, a short walk from the Art Institute, Millennium Park and the lakefront trail — easy to combine.

🛈 Practical Info

→Season：Usually operates May-Oct; confirm before visiting.

→Show：A 20-minute main display at the top of each hour.

→Night：Night light shows are especially spectacular; visit at dusk.

→Free：Public fountain, free to watch.

→Combine：Pair with Millennium Park, Cloud Gate and the Art Institute.

💡 Tips

• Usually operates May-Oct; night light shows are especially spectacular.

• A 20-minute main display at the top of each hour.

• Faces Lake Michigan with the skyline behind — classic Chicago photo angle.

• Operating hours and show times are subject to the official notice.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Buckingham Fountain?

Usually operates May-Oct; night light shows are especially spectacular. A 20-minute main display at the top of each hour.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.