Vaillancourt Fountain: A Brutalist Landmark
A controversial yet iconic brutalist fountain in San Francisco's Embarcadero Plaza, known for its bold design and political history.
The Vaillancourt Fountain, also known as Québec Libre!, is a large, controversial fountain in Embarcadero Plaza, San Francisco. Designed by Québécois artist Armand Vaillancourt, its brutalist aesthetic and political undertones have made it a subject of debate since its completion in 1971.
A brief summary to Vaillancourt Fountain
- San Francisco, Financial District, California, 94105, US
- Visit website
- 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 different times of the day to see how the sunlight interacts with the fountain's structure.
- Check out the nearby Ferry Building Marketplace for artisanal foods and local products.
- The Embarcadero BART station is a short walk away, making the fountain easily accessible.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are near the Ferry Building Marketplace, walk north on Embarcadero Street for about 10 minutes. You'll pass the ferry docks and waterfront area. Continue to the Embarcadero Center; the fountain is located there.
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Public Transport
Take any Muni Metro train downtown and disembark at Embarcadero Station. Or, take the historic F Market and Wharves line to The Embarcadero. From the station, walk towards the waterfront. The fountain is located near the Embarcadero Center. Single fare for Muni is $3.00.
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Ride Share/Taxi
From downtown San Francisco, a taxi or ride-share to Vaillancourt Fountain will cost approximately $15-25, depending on traffic and demand. Ask your driver to take you to Embarcadero Plaza.
Discover more about Vaillancourt Fountain
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