Buckingham Fountain

Buckingham Fountain is a large ornamental fountain located in Chicago’s Grant Park, notable for its monumental circular basin and staged water displays. It was dedicated in 1927 and is one of the city’s most recognizable public monuments.

The fountain’s design centers on a large central pool with multiple jets and surrounding sculptural groups, and it is programmed to run water and evening light displays during the park’s warmer season. The fountain forms a visual focal point facing Lake Michigan and is often included in city tours and skyline views.

Commissioned and gifted to the city in the early 20th century, the fountain was designed as a major civic work and has been maintained as a landmark feature of Grant Park since its opening. It has undergone restoration work to conserve both mechanical systems and ornamental stonework.

Located in the near-south lakefront section of Grant Park, the fountain sits close to major downtown streets and is accessible from Chicago’s central business district and lakefront promenades.

• Opening and seasonal shows: Opened to the public in 1927 and located in Grant Park, it operates regular water and light shows during the warmer months.
• Location in Grant Park: Sits near Congress Parkway/Columbus Drive and is a major visual terminus within Chicago's Grant Park landscape.

What to See #

• Main basin and sculptures: The central circular basin and its water jets form the main visual element and are flanked by four allegorical sea-horse statues that anchor the fountain's design.