Buckingham Fountain 🇺🇸

Located in the center of Grant Park—often called Chicago's front yard—Buckingham Fountain is a magnificent Chicago Landmark and one of the world's largest fountains. Dedicated in 1927 after being donated by philanthropist Kate S. Buckingham in memory of her brother Clarence, this impressive structure serves as Chicago's front door between Queen's Landing and Ida B. Wells Drive.

You will love admiring its grand rococo wedding cake style, designed by beaux arts architect Edward H. Bennett and inspired by the Latona Fountain at Versailles. Built from Georgia pink marble, the fountain allegorically represents nearby Lake Michigan, featuring four sets of sea horses sculpted by Marcel F. Loyau that symbolize the four bordering states: Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana.

When you visit between early May and mid-October, you can watch daily hourly water shows where 193 jets push over 14,000 gallons per minute, sending a powerful central water jet soaring up to 150 feet high. After dusk, stay to experience choreographed water displays featuring colored lights and music. Even in winter, you can appreciate the structure decorated with festival lights, and you can stay connected while taking in the views using the area's free Wi-Fi.

What to see at Buckingham Fountain

• Rococo wedding cake style constructed from Georgia pink marble
• Hourly 20-minute water shows with a central jet reaching 150 feet
• Choreographed evening light and music displays after dusk
• Sculpted sea horses representing the four states bordering Lake Michigan

Visiting tips

Visit after dusk between early May and mid-October to experience the hourly water show synchronized with lights and music, while taking advantage of free Wi-Fi in the viewing area.

How long: Under 1 hour · Best time: After dusk

How to get there & what’s nearby

Buckingham Fountain is easy to reach on Chicago’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Chicago travel guide.