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The Majestic Elegance of Buckingham Fountain

Discover the enchanting Buckingham Fountain in Chicago, a historical landmark with mesmerizing water displays and lush park surroundings.

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Buckingham Fountain, a stunning landmark in Grant Park, Chicago, invites tourists to marvel at its grand architecture and vibrant water displays. As one of the largest fountains in the world, it features a mesmerizing show of water choreography and colorful nighttime illuminations. This iconic site is a perfect blend of historical significance and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Windy City.

A brief summary to Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain

Local tips

  • Visit in the evening to see the fountain illuminated with vibrant colors.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning water displays and surrounding park scenery.
  • Check the schedule for the fountain's water shows, as they occur at regular intervals.
  • Explore nearby Grant Park for additional attractions and beautiful walking paths.
  • Plan your visit during the warmer months for the best experience of the fountain's displays.
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Getting There

  • Public Bus

    From Oak Lawn Village Hall (9446 S Raymond Ave), walk to the nearest bus stop at the intersection of Raymond Ave and 95th St. Take the Pace Bus Route 349 towards 'S Cicero Ave & 95th St'. Ride for about 15 minutes until you reach the 'Cicero Ave & 79th St' stop. Transfer to the CTA Route 75 (75th St) bus. Continue riding for approximately 20 minutes and get off at the '75th St & State St' stop. Finally, walk to the Red Line 'State & 35th' station, board the train towards 'Howard', and disembark at 'Harold Washington Library' station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to the fountain located at 301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605.

  • Train

    Start at the Oak Lawn Metra Station (100th Ave & Southwest Hwy). Board the Metra Electric Line train towards 'Millennium Station' in Chicago. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Millennium Station, exit and walk east towards Grant Park. The Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain is located at 301 S Columbus Dr, just a 10-minute walk from the station.

  • Bicycle

    If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike from a local rental shop in Oak Lawn. Start at the Oak Lawn Village Hall (9446 S Raymond Ave) and bike north on Raymond Ave towards 95th St. Turn left on 95th St and follow it until you reach Cicero Ave. Turn right onto Cicero Ave and then left onto 79th St. Continue towards the city, and once you reach the Chicago city limits, follow signs to Grant Park. The fountain is located at 301 S Columbus Dr, just inside Grant Park. The ride will take about 45-60 minutes depending on your pace.

  • Walking

    For the more adventurous, you can walk from Oak Lawn to the fountain, although it's quite a distance (approximately 10 miles). Start at the Oak Lawn Village Hall (9446 S Raymond Ave) and head north on Raymond Ave. Continue walking north until you reach 95th St, then head east until you reach Cicero Ave. Follow Cicero Ave north into Chicago, then turn east onto 79th St. Continue walking towards Grant Park, where the Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain is located at 301 S Columbus Dr. This will take you about 2.5 to 3 hours.

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Discover more about Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain

The Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain is a breathtaking centerpiece located in Grant Park, Chicago, and is renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant water displays. Constructed in 1927, this magnificent fountain is not only one of the largest in the world but also a symbol of the city's rich history and artistic heritage. The fountain is designed in the Beaux-Arts style and mimics the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles. During the day, visitors can witness the fountain's impressive water choreography, with water shooting up to 150 feet in the air, creating a captivating spectacle. At night, the fountain transforms into a dazzling display of colorful lights, illuminating the night sky and offering a romantic ambiance for couples and families alike. Surrounding the fountain is a beautifully landscaped park area where visitors can relax, take photos, or enjoy a leisurely stroll. The vibrant flowerbeds and lush greenery provide a perfect backdrop for creating memorable moments. The fountain also serves as a historical landmark, commemorating the generosity of philanthropist Clarence Buckingham, and it is a popular stop for tourists exploring the downtown area. Close to various museums, theaters, and restaurants, Buckingham Fountain is conveniently located, making it easy for visitors to include in their itinerary. Whether you're admiring the fountain's intricate sculptures or simply enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, a visit to the Buckingham Fountain is an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of Chicago's charm and beauty.

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