Buckingham Fountain
Buckingham Fountain
4.5
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
About
Chicago's landmark is considered one of America's finest fountains due to its Beaux-Arts-style landscape design, finely wrought bronze sculpture and innovative use of technology.
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Grant Park
How to get there
- Adams/Wabash • 8 min walk
- Harold Washington Library – State/Van Buren • 9 min walk
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,424 reviews
Excellent
1,996
Very good
1,059
Average
292
Poor
50
Terrible
27
hrobinson1114
Nashville, TN2,782 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
I’ve been to Chicago several times, but always in the fall, so the fountain has always been turned off. I had high hopes going here, but it didn’t rate five stars.
The fountain is open 8 AM to 11 PM, May through October. There is supposed to be a nighttime light and music show, but the night I went, it was just the regular lights. It’s supposed to be every hour on the hour, so I waited quite some time to no avail.
It wasn’t five stars for me for the following reasons: no light and music show as promised, no benches or seating (maybe it was moved for lollapalooza, but doubtful), and there were tons of those annoying cycle rickshaws wrapped in neon lights. They just kept circling around the fountain blasting Miley Cyrus.
This is a neat display, and is one of the largest fountains in the world, so it’s worth a visit, but the city could make it more hospitable to visitors with some seating and actually stick to the show schedule.
The fountain is open 8 AM to 11 PM, May through October. There is supposed to be a nighttime light and music show, but the night I went, it was just the regular lights. It’s supposed to be every hour on the hour, so I waited quite some time to no avail.
It wasn’t five stars for me for the following reasons: no light and music show as promised, no benches or seating (maybe it was moved for lollapalooza, but doubtful), and there were tons of those annoying cycle rickshaws wrapped in neon lights. They just kept circling around the fountain blasting Miley Cyrus.
This is a neat display, and is one of the largest fountains in the world, so it’s worth a visit, but the city could make it more hospitable to visitors with some seating and actually stick to the show schedule.
Written 2 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kelli P
24 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
This was on my list of things to see while visiting Chicago. It is a must see! It is larger and more impressive than I expected
Written 22 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ashley R
Jonesville, MI361 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
Very cool fountain. Big and unique you don’t see many like this everywhere. Lots of cool flower gardens in the area, near the lake. Just a pretty spot to check out
Written 20 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A Midlife Adventure
Dursley, UK1,313 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
One of the best fountains we have visited and we saw a lot recently on a tour of Western Europe.
Such a relaxing vibe with so much seating scattered around that you really get the chance to stop, take a breath and admire its design and capabilities.
Such a relaxing vibe with so much seating scattered around that you really get the chance to stop, take a breath and admire its design and capabilities.
Written 18 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
grapeeape
Vienna, VA577 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
Iconic, huge fountain. Beautiful attraction. Worth a visit on the way to explore Lakeshore Blvd, Millennium Park and/or Navy Pier.
Written 4 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul Lubo
Chicago, IL6 contributions
May 2023 • Solo
Buckingham Fountain is an iconic landmark located in Grant Park, Chicago. As one of the largest fountains in the world, it is a stunning centerpiece that captivates both locals and visitors alike.
The fountain was designed by architect Edward H. Bennett and dedicated in 1927 as a gift to the city from Kate Buckingham in memory of her brother. Its majestic presence and intricate design make it a significant attraction within Grant Park, often referred to as Chicago's "front yard."
The Buckingham Fountain is inspired by the Latona Fountain in the Palace of Versailles, France. It features a central rococo-style bronze sculpture depicting sea creatures and allegorical figures, surrounded by a large circular pool.
What truly sets the Buckingham Fountain apart is its mesmerizing water displays. The fountain operates from spring to fall, with water shows that are choreographed to music and lights. The grand water displays, reaching heights of up to 150 feet, create a magnificent spectacle that is truly awe-inspiring.
The fountain's location in Grant Park provides a picturesque backdrop, with panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists to gather, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the fountain and its surroundings.
Buckingham Fountain holds a special place in Chicago's cultural landscape. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and music videos, becoming an iconic symbol of the city. It is also a popular venue for special events and celebrations, including the annual summer opening ceremony when the fountain is turned on.
Whether it's the graceful water displays, the intricate design, or the rich history, Buckingham Fountain stands as a beloved landmark that embodies the beauty and grandeur of Chicago. A visit to Grant Park would be incomplete without experiencing the majesty of this iconic fountain.
The fountain was designed by architect Edward H. Bennett and dedicated in 1927 as a gift to the city from Kate Buckingham in memory of her brother. Its majestic presence and intricate design make it a significant attraction within Grant Park, often referred to as Chicago's "front yard."
The Buckingham Fountain is inspired by the Latona Fountain in the Palace of Versailles, France. It features a central rococo-style bronze sculpture depicting sea creatures and allegorical figures, surrounded by a large circular pool.
What truly sets the Buckingham Fountain apart is its mesmerizing water displays. The fountain operates from spring to fall, with water shows that are choreographed to music and lights. The grand water displays, reaching heights of up to 150 feet, create a magnificent spectacle that is truly awe-inspiring.
The fountain's location in Grant Park provides a picturesque backdrop, with panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists to gather, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the fountain and its surroundings.
Buckingham Fountain holds a special place in Chicago's cultural landscape. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and music videos, becoming an iconic symbol of the city. It is also a popular venue for special events and celebrations, including the annual summer opening ceremony when the fountain is turned on.
Whether it's the graceful water displays, the intricate design, or the rich history, Buckingham Fountain stands as a beloved landmark that embodies the beauty and grandeur of Chicago. A visit to Grant Park would be incomplete without experiencing the majesty of this iconic fountain.
Written 27 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BradJill
Hong Kong, China159,132 contributions
May 2023
Buckingham Fountain is the centerpeice attraction of Grant Park in The Loop. It was dedicated in 1927 and is considered to be one of the largest fountains in the world. Designed to resemble a Rococo style wedding cake, Buckingham Fountain reminds one of the Latona Fountain at Versailles.
Unfortunately, during our early May visit, the fountain remained out of operation due to cool weather that was persisting this spring. Hopefully, we will be able to see Buckingham Fountain turned on next time around.
Unfortunately, during our early May visit, the fountain remained out of operation due to cool weather that was persisting this spring. Hopefully, we will be able to see Buckingham Fountain turned on next time around.
Written 23 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scott D
Bourbonnais, IL523 contributions
May 2023 • Friends
we both enjoy this place so much. we take some pictures here and there. we didn't have any problems here. we didn't have any problems here
Written 21 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul W
19 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Walked a long way on a very hot Chicago day, 7th May, to see this iconic fountain.
Wish the Internet had made it clearer that it's not being turned on till next week!
Chicago! You let us down with that decision.
Wish the Internet had made it clearer that it's not being turned on till next week!
Chicago! You let us down with that decision.
Written 7 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HCM
Lillestrom, Norway548 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
We had great expectations for this sight. Sadly, but understandable, the fountain was without water. We will come back later to admire it’s glory
Written 31 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maggy F
Markyate, UK2 contributions
Does anyone know if the fountain is running again for December??
christopherbO9687MP
Acton, MA666 contributions
Not sure; it gets pretty cold next to Lake Michigan and so ice would be an issue. Check with the city's park department web site to see what their plans this year are.
Stephen C
Dublin, Ireland65 contributions
Is the fountain closed/stopped running for 2019?
LUV2CRUIZE
Memphis, TN7 contributions
I was there In June 2019 it was running. I’m not from Chicago but based on other answers it could be closed during winter months because of The Brutal Chicago Winter.
Is there anywhere to park a large pickup truck?
Mike14
9 contributions
No there isn't.
AustraliaRell
Australia13 contributions
Is anyone able to advise when will the fountain be closing for the season as I will be arriving 17th October 2018 from Australia and was hoping to be able see this while it is still on.
ALnG_Culinary
Milwaukee, WI171 contributions
For an answer that is solid, I would call the Public works Department. They can tell you when the water is turned off to prevent pipes from freezing. "cityofchicago" "." "org"
Is the water show going on this season regularly? I ask because i remember it was under repair a few years back and i want to make sure it is functioning now. Thanks.
Areya W
Texas121 contributions
It's on 8am -11pm w/ light show at dusk. I was there a few weeks ago it was back to regular operating hours.
When do they turn the water back on?
SBC499
Toronto, Canada206 contributions
When I visited this March, they said they would turn the water back on in May!
Is there parking nearby the park?
retatinha
Kissimmee, FL40 contributions
Parking garages are not really close, but 10-15 mins walk you will find a couple of options.
Walking in Chicago is the best way to really feel the vibe of the city.
I remember that south Wabash there was a parking.
What I would recommend is to park close to the Millenium Park and walk all over to visit the area. Just avoid the rainy days !
kanchana311
Miami, FL173 contributions
Will the fountain be working in the month of October?
hotwheels84
251 contributions
The fountain operates mid-April through mid-October from 8 am-11 pm, so it kind of depends on when, in October, you will be visiting.
AVChicago2012
Chicago, IL108 contributions
It is too cold outside for the fountain to be on.
But there is still lots to do in March in Chicago.
Melina K
Sydney Olympic Park, Australia177 contributions
If you travel in the warmer months, it's a must do on the list though not sure if it will be open in cooler climate as I visited in early Sept!
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Claim your listingBUCKINGHAM FOUNTAIN: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Buckingham Fountain
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Buckingham Fountain:
- Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (From S$64.84)
- 30 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride (From S$55.49)
- Chicago Small-Group City Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise (From S$62.64)
- Chicago City Minibus Tour (From S$62.64)
- Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Small Group Tour (From S$102.04)
- Hotels near Buckingham Fountain:
- (0.57 km) HI Chicago, The J. Ira and Nicki Harris Family Hostel
- (0.74 km) Silversmith Hotel Chicago Downtown
- (0.60 km) The Blackstone, Autograph Collection
- (0.84 km) Hampton Inn Majestic Chicago Theatre District
- (0.63 km) Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
- Restaurants near Buckingham Fountain:
- (0.21 km) Bucks Four Star Grill
- (0.40 km) Terzo Piano
- (0.49 km) Russian Tea Time
- (0.33 km) Museum Cafe
- (0.58 km) Acanto
- Attractions near Buckingham Fountain:
- (0.41 km) The Art Institute of Chicago
- (0.19 km) Tokachidake Bodakedai Disaster Prevention Shelter
- (0.41 km) Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours
- (0.21 km) Petrillo Music Shell
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