Buckingham Fountain, located in Grant Park in Chicago, IL, is a large, beautiful fountain that has become an iconic symbol of the city. Constructed in 1927, the fountain was designed by architect Edward H. Bennett, and it has become a beloved landmark for Chicagoans. Originally designed to be a celebration of the lakes, parks, and boulevards of Chicago, the Buckingham Fountain also serves other important roles, from providing a gathering place to promoting tourism to the city. Information can be found here.
At the heart of Buckingham Fountain is a two-acre basin filled with nearly 13 million gallons of water. At the top of the fountain is a central column depicting four sea horses (representing the four states that border Lake Michigan: Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana). The fountain is illuminated by 138 colored lights. During the evening hours, the lights provide a beautiful, romantic atmosphere. The Buckingham Fountain is lit up with these lights every night from dusk until 11:00 PM. See here for information about Maggie Daley Park in Chicago, IL: An Urban Oasis.
The beauty of Buckingham fountain has contributed to its popularity with tourists and locals alike. The fountain provides a picturesque backdrop for weddings, anniversaries, and special events, making it a popular tourist attraction in the city. The fountain also serves as a starting point for the vast parks and tourist attractions in Chicago and the lakefront. The fountain also serves another important purpose – it serves as a gathering place for locals. Every year, thousands of people visit the fountain to relax after a long day of work, catch up with old friends, or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views. The fountain has also become a stage for music and art. During the warm months, visitors can enjoy live music performances and art exhibitions around the fountain.
Another important role of Buckingham fountain is its role in promoting tourism. As the most imposing structure in Grant Park, the fountain has become synonymous with Chicago and its city life. The majestic fountain, with its towering structure and shimmering lights, serves as a reminder of the vibrant and exciting city beyond it. Tourists from all over the world flock to see the fountain, creating a steady stream of tourist income for the city.
The Buckingham Fountain has become an essential part of life in Chicago. Not only does it serve as a gathering place for locals, but it also provides a beautiful, iconic background to weddings, anniversaries, and other events. Additionally, the fountain promotes tourism and is a source of income for the city. When it comes to the importance of this fountain, it can’t be overstated. The Buckingham Fountain is a symbol of a great city and is an irreplaceable part of the Chicago skyline.
The Buckingham Fountain is a treasured symbol of Chicago and its legacy of public works. With its brilliant blue waters and its impressive architecture, it has become a beloved feature of the city skyline. In 2021, the fountain celebrated its 93rd anniversary and will no doubt continue to be a top Chicago landmark for years to come. This grand work of architecture and engineering stands as a testament to the beauty and majesty of this great city, as well as to the power of public water works.
