Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain
Chicago, IL
One of the most notable features along the Chicago River, the Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain was built to commemorate the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago, whose engineers famously reversed the flow of the Chicago River in 1900. Featuring a modernist, cascading waterfall and an hourly jet of water, it’s a summertime sightseeing staple of the Windy City.
The basics
Strolling the Riverwalk is one of the most popular things to do in Chicago, and little wonder: The river is lined with iconic skyscrapers, landmarks, and attractions like the Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain. A highlight of the Riverwalk for more than 35 years, the fountain is a seasonal feature you can see during architectural river cruises, walking tours of downtown Chicago, and time-saving bike tours.
The sight is also easy to discover independently, whether you set off on a riverside walk or opt for a kayak rental—just be sure to watch out for its jet of water, which shoots 80 feet (24 meters) into the air on the hour.
Things to know before you go
- The Chicago Riverwalk is accessible to wheelchair users.
- There is little to no cover along the Riverwalk, so aim to visit on a dry day, and bring sun protection.
- A number of restaurants, cafés, and kiosks are in the area, so you can pick up snacks or drinks if you like.
How to get there
The Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain stands on the north shore of the Chicago River, between North New Street and North McClurg Court. Take the Red Line of the Chicago L to Grand station, about a 15-minute walk away. Buses, taxis, and rideshare services also frequent the area.
When to get there
The fountain and water jet run from May through September. If you can, time your visit for the top of the hour, when the jet makes an arc across the Chicago River in a photo-worthy display.
The Buckingham Fountain
Another famous Chicago fountain, the Buckingham Fountain is also worth a visit. Set in downtown Chicago’s lakefront Grant Park, the fountain is one of the world’s largest, and was modeled on the fountains at France’s Palace of Versailles. Visit after sunset to see its hourly light and music show, which takes place during the warmer months.
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