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The Fountain at The Circle: A Berkeley Landmark

A historic fountain in the Berkeley Hills, perfect for a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Berkeley's past.

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The Fountain at The Circle, located in the Berkeley Hills, is a picturesque landmark and a serene oasis. Surrounded by greenery, it's a spot for relaxation and contemplation. The fountain, rebuilt in 1996 by Friends of the Fountain and Walk, marks the center of a traffic circle from which seven streets radiate.

A brief summary to The Fountain at The Circle

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for a magical experience as the golden light reflects on the water.
  • Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views and blooming flowers surrounding the fountain.
  • Take a walk down Fountain Walk, which connects The Circle to Del Norte, and admire the balustrades.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Telegraph Avenue, head northeast towards Ashby Avenue. Turn right onto Ashby Avenue and continue for about half a mile until you reach The Circle. The fountain is located at the end of The Circle, just off Ashby Avenue. There are sidewalks and pedestrian crossings available. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From the North Berkeley BART station, catch the AC Transit bus line 67 towards El Cerrito del Norte BART. Get off at The Circle stop. The fountain is a short walk from the bus stop, located in the center of the circle. A single bus fare is typically around $2.50.

  • Driving

    From downtown Berkeley, head north on Shattuck Avenue, then turn left onto University Avenue. Continue for about 2 miles until you reach the traffic circle at The Circle. Turn right into The Circle, and you will find the fountain at the center. There is limited street parking available. Parking is typically limited to two hours.

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Discover more about The Fountain at The Circle

The Fountain at The Circle stands as a charming landmark in the Berkeley Hills, captivating visitors with its stunning water features and tranquil ambiance. Surrounded by lush greenery, this enchanting fountain serves as a visual delight and a place for relaxation. The fountain's history is intertwined with Berkeley's ambition to become the capital of California in the early 20th century. The streets radiating from the circle are named after California counties. Although the capital never moved to Berkeley, the fountain remains as a reminder of this vision. Designed by John Galen Howard, the architect of UC Berkeley's campus, the fountain was intended to be a grand entrance to the would-be capitol grounds. The original fountain, completed in 1911, was destroyed in 1957 when a truck crashed into it. It was rebuilt and rededicated in 1996 by the Friends of the Fountain and Walk. The fountain features sculptures of four grizzly bear cubs by Arthur Putnam. Today, the Fountain at The Circle is a gathering place for locals and tourists. The inviting atmosphere encourages visitors to take photos, enjoy leisurely walks, or simply admire the tranquil surroundings.

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