7 Must-See Fountains in Chicago, Illinois – Women’s Chicago IL Travel Guide

One of my favorite activities as a woman traveling to Chicago is exploring the city’s incredible architecture while on a budget. Chicago’s iconic buildings have not only shaped the skyline but also influenced architectural designs across the United States, with some even holding the title of the tallest in the world at various points in time.

Lately, I’ve been particularly captivated by how Chicago integrates stunning gardens and fountains into its urban landscape. These beautiful fountains provide the perfect ambiance for city dwellers and visitors alike to unwind and enjoy a touch of nature. If you’re planning a trip to Chicago or just looking for budget-friendly activities, here’s a list of my favorite fountains that you shouldn’t miss:

7 Gorgeous Fountains in Chicago

Fountain of Great Lakes

Located in the serene South Garden of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Fountain of the Great Lakes, also known as the Spirit of the Great Lakes Fountain, is a stunning work of art that beautifully captures the essence of America’s Great Lakes. This impressive sculpture, created by renowned artist Lorado Taft in 1913, features five graceful bronze nymphs, each symbolizing one of the Great Lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. The nymphs are arranged in a cascading formation, with each figure pouring water from a shell into the one below, elegantly representing the natural flow of water from lake to lake as it moves toward the Atlantic Ocean.

The fountain is not just a remarkable example of early 20th-century sculpture but also an homage to the interconnectedness of the Great Lakes, which are crucial to the environment and economy of the surrounding regions. The placement of the fountain within the Art Institute’s South Garden adds to its tranquility, making it a perfect spot for reflection amidst the bustling city. The verdant garden setting, designed by landscape architect Dan Kiley, enhances the fountain’s beauty, providing a peaceful retreat where visitors can appreciate both the artistry and the natural elements that have been thoughtfully combined in this Chicago landmark.

S. Michigan Avenue at, E Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60603

Buckingham Fountain

One of the most iconic and grandiose fountains in Chicago, Buckingham Fountain is a must-see landmark in Grant Park. Known officially as The Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain, it was dedicated in 1927 as a tribute to Clarence Buckingham by his sister, Kate Buckingham. This magnificent structure was designed by architect Edward H. Bennett in the Beaux-Arts style, with the central fountain inspired by the Latona Fountain at the Palace of Versailles. The Buckingham Fountain is composed of four sets of Art Deco-style sea horses, symbolizing the four states that border Lake Michigan: Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan.

What sets Buckingham Fountain apart is its impressive water display, which occurs every hour on the hour from spring through early fall. The fountain shoots water up to 150 feet into the air in a breathtaking show that lasts for 20 minutes. At dusk, the spectacle is enhanced with a choreographed light and music display, creating a mesmerizing experience against the backdrop of Chicago’s skyline. The fountain’s grandeur and historical significance make it a centerpiece of Grant Park, and its continuous operation—pumping 14,100 gallons of water per minute—showcases both its beauty and engineering marvel. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, taking a moment to sit by this awe-inspiring fountain and enjoy the rhythmic dance of water is an essential Chicago experience.

301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

Fountain of Time

One of the most compelling and thought-provoking pieces on this list is the Fountain of Time, a masterpiece by sculptor Lorado Taft. Situated at the western end of the Midway Plaisance in Washington Park, the fountain is a striking 126-foot-long sculpture that captures the passage of time through the lens of human experience. At the center of this powerful work is the figure of Father Time, a solemn, cloaked figure who watches over the procession of 100 human figures that stretch along the length of the fountain. The reflecting pool that lies before him serves as a metaphor for the river of time, emphasizing the fleeting nature of life.

The 100 figures, meticulously sculpted in various poses, represent a broad spectrum of humanity and the different stages of life. From infants and children, full of curiosity and wonder, to soldiers and workers who embody the struggles and toils of adulthood, to the elderly who reflect the wisdom and weariness of life’s later years—each figure tells its own story. The level of detail in the expressions and postures of these sculptures invites viewers to pause and consider their own journey through time. Spending time at this fountain, I found myself captivated by the individuality of each figure, marveling at how Taft managed to encapsulate the essence of the human experience in such a profound way. The Fountain of Time isn’t just a visual spectacle; it’s a moving tribute to the universal passage of life, encouraging reflection on the moments that define our existence.

6000 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60637

Crown Fountain

Another popular fountain on this list is the Crown Fountain, an innovative and interactive piece located in Millennium Park. Designed by renowned Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, the Crown Fountain consists of two 50-foot glass block towers that stand at each end of a shallow reflecting pool. These towers are not only impressive in their size but also in their unique design. Each tower features a state-of-the-art LED screen that displays the faces of various Chicagoans, captured in stunning detail. The faces, which change periodically, represent the diversity and vibrancy of the city’s population, offering a digital portrait gallery that is as dynamic as Chicago itself.

What makes the Crown Fountain particularly fascinating is the way these digital faces interact with the fountain’s water features. At intervals, the faces appear to purse their lips, and a stream of water flows from a nozzle positioned to align with the mouth on the screen, creating the illusion that the person is spouting water. This playful and surprising element delights visitors, especially children, who often run through the cascading water on hot summer days. The fountain is not just a work of art; it’s a communal space where people gather to cool off, take photos, and enjoy the combination of technology, art, and nature. The Crown Fountain is a testament to Chicago’s commitment to creating public spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and accessible to all.

201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

Centennial Fountain

The Centennial Fountain, formally known as the Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain, is a striking and historically significant landmark located along the North Bank of the Chicago River. This fountain was inaugurated in 1989 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago, an organization pivotal in reversing the flow of the Chicago River to improve sanitation and protect Lake Michigan. The fountain’s design reflects both the city’s innovative spirit and its commitment to preserving and celebrating its natural resources.

At the heart of the Centennial Fountain is its impressive sculptural sun dial, which serves as a symbolic centerpiece, representing the passage of time and the ongoing efforts to manage and protect Chicago’s waterways. The fountain’s most captivating feature is its ability to shoot water up to 80 feet into the air, forming a magnificent arc over the river. This water display occurs hourly, creating a breathtaking spectacle that can be seen from various vantage points along the riverbank. The fountain’s water arc not only adds to the visual appeal of the Chicago Riverwalk but also offers a moment of serene beauty in the midst of the bustling city. Visitors to the area often find themselves pausing to watch the fountain’s graceful performance, which serves as a reminder of the city’s rich history and its continued dedication to innovation and progress.

400 N McClurg Ct, Chicago, IL 60611

Sh*t Fountain

The most unique and perhaps eyebrow-raising fountain on this list is the Sh*t Fountain, an unconventional art piece located near East Village in Chicago. Created by local artist Jerzy S. Kenar, this fountain is a tongue-in-cheek reminder to dog owners to clean up after their pets. The centerpiece of the fountain is a bronze sculpture shaped like a coil of dog feces, perched atop a three-foot pillar. While the subject matter may seem unusual, the fountain carries a practical message wrapped in humor, serving as both a public service announcement and a piece of quirky urban art.

What makes the Sht Fountain particularly intriguing is its setting. Unlike other public fountains, this one is situated on private residential land, yet it has become a local landmark and conversation starter. The fountain’s water feature is subtle, with water slowly trickling down from the bronze sculpture to fill the basin below, adding a touch of irony to the piece’s purpose. The Sht Fountain stands as a playful yet pointed commentary on community responsibility, urging dog owners to be considerate of their neighbors. Despite its crude subject, the fountain is celebrated for its boldness and the lighthearted way it addresses a common urban issue. Whether you view it as art, social commentary, or both, the Sh*t Fountain is undoubtedly one of Chicago’s most distinctive and memorable landmarks.

1001 N Wolcott Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Storks at Play Fountain

Storks at Play,” also known as The Bates Fountain, is a charming and intricate fountain located near the Lincoln Park Conservatory in Chicago. This beautiful piece of art was crafted by sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and architect Stanford White in the late 19th century, combining artistic finesse with whimsical elements. The fountain features a lively scene where storks, depicted with wings outstretched, appear to be playfully interacting with the water. The storks spray water from their beaks, adding a dynamic sense of movement and life to the sculpture.

Surrounding these graceful birds are bronze statues of boys, each with the curious detail of fins in place of legs, suggesting a mythical or aquatic theme. These boys are shown carrying fish in their arms, adding to the fountain’s playful and imaginative nature. The Bates Fountain is not only a visual delight but also a testament to the rich artistic heritage of Chicago. Its location near the Lincoln Park Conservatory makes it a perfect spot for visitors to pause and appreciate the blend of nature and art, offering a serene and picturesque setting in one of the city’s most beloved parks.

2045 N Lincoln Park West, Chicago, IL 60614

Have you seen any of these fountains?

Did I mention your favorite Chicago fountain, or did I overlook it? Chicago is home to many stunning fountains, and I couldn’t cover them all. Share your top fountain in the comments below, and I’ll make sure to visit it for a future update! For more travel inspiration and tips for women exploring Chicago, be sure to check out my other posts for Chicago, Illinois.

📍 Find My Favorite Fountains Around Chicago Here: