Westcott Fountain, Tallahassee Area Travel Guide

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Experience the heart of Florida State University at Westcott Fountain, a symbol of tradition, unity, and Seminole spirit, where history and student life converge.

The Westcott Fountain, a beloved landmark at Florida State University, stands as a symbol of tradition, unity, and heritage. Gifted by the classes of 1915 and 1917, it has graced the campus since 1917, becoming the most photographed spot on campus. More than just a beautiful fountain, it's a gathering place, a site for celebrations, and a repository of FSU lore. From the tradition of students being tossed into the fountain on their 21st birthday to the commemorative bricks surrounding the plaza, Westcott Fountain embodies the spirit and history of Florida State University. Whether you're a prospective student, an alumnus, or simply a visitor, the fountain offers a glimpse into the heart of the Seminole experience, making it a must-see destination on any Tallahassee itinerary. Its location at the end of College Avenue, near Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, makes it easily accessible and a central point for exploring the campus.

A brief summary to Westcott Fountain

156 S Copeland St, Tallahassee, Florida, 32304, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Westcott Fountain.

Visit at night to see the fountain illuminated, creating a magical and picturesque scene.
Check the FSU events calendar for special events or performances that may be taking place at the fountain or in the nearby Ruby Diamond Concert Hall.
Take a stroll around the commemorative brick plaza and read the inscriptions on the bricks to learn more about FSU's history and alumni.

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Explore Westcott Fountain on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Westcott Fountain, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

If you are already on the FSU campus, the Westcott Fountain is easily accessible on foot. From Landis Green, head east towards College Avenue. You'll see the Westcott Building directly ahead, with the fountain in front. From the Student Union, walk north on Landis Green, then east towards the Westcott Building. The fountain is a short walk from most central campus locations.
Public Transport

StarMetro, Tallahassee's public bus service, has several routes that stop near the FSU campus. The closest stops to Westcott Fountain are located along W Tennessee Street and S Copeland Street. From these stops, it's a short walk to the fountain. Check the StarMetro website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride fare is typically around $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tallahassee. Simply enter 'Westcott Fountain' as your destination. A ride from downtown Tallahassee will typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.
Driving

If driving, navigate to 156 S Copeland St, Tallahassee, FL 32304. Limited street parking is available on College Avenue and surrounding streets, but it can be difficult to find during peak hours. Paid parking is available in the St. Augustine Garage located on the corner of Pensacola and Copeland Streets, and the Call Street Garage located on corner of Call and Macomb Streets. Parking fees typically range from $2 per hour, with a max of $10 per day.

Discover more about Westcott Fountain

Westcott Fountain, located at the heart of Florida State University in Tallahassee, is more than just a picturesque water feature; it's a living embodiment of the university's rich history, traditions, and vibrant student life. Situated prominently at the end of College Avenue, in front of the historic Westcott Building, the fountain serves as a welcoming beacon and a central gathering place for the FSU community. The fountain's origins trace back to the classes of 1915 and 1917 of the Florida State College for Women, the predecessor institution to FSU. Their generous gift, dedicated in 1917, has since become the most iconic and photographed landmark on campus. The Westcott Building itself is named after James Diament Westcott, Jr., an early benefactor whose 1887 estate significantly contributed to the university's development. The building, constructed in 1910, houses the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, the university's primary performance venue, adding to the area's cultural significance. Over the decades, Westcott Fountain has evolved into a powerful symbol of FSU's heritage. It represents unity, tradition, and the enduring spirit of the Seminole community. The fountain underwent a renovation in 1982 in remembrance of Professor Anna Forbes Liddell, a distinguished professor of philosophy. In 1988, the original fountain was replaced with an exact replica due to structural issues, ensuring that this cherished landmark would continue to inspire future generations. The Westcott Plaza, surrounding the fountain, features a commemorative brick plaza, a project initiated by the classes of 1996 and 1997. These bricks, engraved with names, dates, and special messages, serve as lasting tributes from alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the university. The FSU Alumni Association administers the "Brick Program," with new bricks installed each semester, further solidifying the connection between past and present. Beyond its aesthetic appeal and historical significance, Westcott Fountain is deeply intertwined with FSU's traditions and student culture. Perhaps the most well-known tradition is the practice of students being thrown into the fountain by friends on their 21st birthday. This rite of passage is considered a quintessential FSU experience, with many believing that one is not truly a Seminole until they have taken the plunge. Even university presidents have been known to participate in this tradition, further cementing the fountain's place in FSU lore. The fountain also serves as a backdrop for countless celebrations, ceremonies, and casual gatherings. Students often congregate around the fountain to socialize, study, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The area is a popular spot for engagement photos, graduation pictures, and other milestone moments. On warm days, it's not uncommon to see students cooling off in the fountain's refreshing waters, adding to the lively atmosphere. However, the site of Westcott Fountain has a darker past. Before the construction of the fountain and the Westcott Building, the area was known as Gallows Hill, a site of public executions in the 1830s. This history has given rise to numerous ghost stories and legends, with some students reporting strange sounds and unusual occurrences around the fountain at night. While these tales add an element of mystery to the site, they also serve as a reminder of the area's complex and layered history. Westcott Fountain is also no stranger to pranks and practical jokes. Over the years, students have been known to add soap or dye to the water, creating colorful and foamy displays that often draw crowds and generate excitement. While these pranks are generally harmless, they require the grounds crew to spend considerable time cleaning and restoring the fountain to its original condition. Today, Westcott Fountain stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Florida State University. It is a place where history, tradition, and student life converge, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit. Whether you're a prospective student exploring the campus, an alumnus returning to your alma mater, or simply a visitor seeking a glimpse into the heart of FSU, Westcott Fountain is a must-see destination that captures the essence of the Seminole spirit.