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Meeting of the Waters Fountain: A Symbol of St. Louis

A St. Louis landmark in Aloe Plaza, the Meeting of the Waters Fountain symbolizes the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers with stunning sculptures.

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The Meeting of the Waters Fountain, located in Aloe Plaza, is a St. Louis landmark symbolizing the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Designed by Carl Milles, the fountain features allegorical figures and mythical creatures, representing the rivers and their tributaries.

A brief summary to Meeting of the Waters Fountain and Sculpture

  • 20 S 20th St, St. Louis, Downtown West, Missouri, 63103, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit on a sunny day to see rainbows arching through the fountain's spray.
  • Take some time to relax on the grassy lawns surrounding the fountain in Aloe Plaza.
  • Check out the nearby Union Station, a former railway terminal with shops, dining, and the St. Louis Aquarium.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Union Station, head north on 18th Street towards Market Street. Aloe Plaza and the Meeting of the Waters Fountain will be on your left, between 18th and 20th Streets. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and is free.

  • Public Transport

    The MetroBus is a readily available option. Several bus routes stop near Union Station, including the #4, #10, #30, #32, #40, #73, and #99. From the bus stop, walk north towards Market Street to reach Aloe Plaza. A single ride fare costs $3.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in downtown St. Louis. A ride from Union Station to the Meeting of the Waters Fountain is a short trip, typically costing between $8 and $12, depending on demand and traffic.

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Discover more about Meeting of the Waters Fountain and Sculpture

The Meeting of the Waters Fountain, situated in Aloe Plaza in downtown St. Louis, is a captivating work of public art. Created by Swedish sculptor Carl Milles and commissioned in 1936, the fountain was completed in 1939 and unveiled in 1940. It stands as a symbolic representation of the meeting of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, which converge just outside of St. Louis. The fountain features a series of bronze sculptures, with a male figure representing the Mississippi River and a female figure representing the Missouri River. Surrounding these central figures are seventeen water sprites, mermaids, and fish, symbolizing the tributaries that flow into the two major rivers. Milles not only designed the sculptures but also the fountain's water jets, creating a dynamic display. Initially named "Wedding of the Waters," the fountain faced controversy due to the nudity of its figures. The name was subsequently changed to "Meeting of the Waters". Over time, the fountain has become a beloved landmark and a symbol of the city. Aloe Plaza, where the fountain is located, provides a serene downtown space for visitors to relax and admire the art. Nearby attractions include Union Station, which now houses a hotel, shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the St. Louis Aquarium.

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