The Majestic Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain: A Chicago Icon
Experience the grandeur of the Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain, a historical landmark and stunning tourist attraction in Chicago's Grant Park.
The Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain, located in the heart of Grant Park, is a must-visit attraction for any tourist exploring Chicago. Constructed in 1927, this monumental fountain is one of the largest in the world and serves as a stunning centerpiece within the park. Its ornate design, inspired by the Latona Fountain at the Palace of Versailles, features a central jet that shoots water up to 150 feet in the air, creating a mesmerizing display that captivates visitors. The fountain is surrounded by beautiful landscaping, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, and photography. Visitors can enjoy the fountain's choreographed water shows, which are enhanced by colorful lights at night. This enchanting spectacle draws crowds, especially during the summer months when the fountain operates on a schedule that varies throughout the day. The surrounding Grant Park offers additional attractions, including walking paths, gardens, and monuments, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Chicago. As a historical landmark, the Buckingham Fountain has been featured in numerous films and is emblematic of Chicago's rich cultural heritage. Its iconic status makes it an essential stop for tourists seeking to experience the city's beauty and history. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and unique angles of this architectural marvel.
Local tips
- Visit in the evening to see the fountain illuminated with colorful lights.
- Check the schedule for the fountain's water shows to catch the most spectacular displays.
- Explore the surrounding Grant Park for additional scenic views and historical monuments.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy the park's beautiful atmosphere while admiring the fountain.
- Visit during the warmer months for the full experience, as the fountain operates seasonally.
A brief summary to Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain
- 301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, Grant Park, Illinois, 60605, US
- +1312-742-7529
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transit
From Arlington Heights, walk to the Arlington Heights Metra Station located at 45 W Northeast Hwy. Take the Union Pacific Northwest Line train towards Chicago O'Hare. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago. Once at Ogilvie, follow the signs to transfer to the CTA 'L' train. Take the Pink Line towards 18th and get off at the Damen stop. Transfer to the Blue Line towards O'Hare and ride for 5 stops until you reach the UIC-Halsted stop. From there, walk for about 10 minutes to reach the Buckingham Fountain located at 301 S Columbus Dr.
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Bus
From Arlington Heights, walk to the nearest bus stop for the Pace Bus route #696. Board the bus towards the Arlington Heights Metra Station. Once at the station, take the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line train towards Chicago. After about 30 minutes, disembark at the Ogilvie Transportation Center. From Ogilvie, take the CTA bus #130 towards State & 18th. Get off at the Michigan & Congress stop and walk 5 minutes to reach the Buckingham Fountain at 301 S Columbus Dr.
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Walking
If you are in Arlington Heights and prefer to walk to Buckingham Fountain, it’s quite a distance, but you can start your journey walking south on Arlington Heights Rd. Continue until you reach Central Rd, then take a left and continue to the Metra Station. From there, follow the previous public transit directions to Ogilvie Station and then to Buckingham Fountain. This will take several hours and is recommended only for those who enjoy long walks and wish to explore the area.
