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Seattle, Washington / Public art

International Fountain

A futuristic, multi-jet water sculpture designed for the 1962 World's Fair, featuring a massive metal dome and colorful LED lighting.

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International Fountain
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What is the International Fountain known for?

The International Fountain is a prominent public-art feature at Seattle Center that was originally built for the 1962 World's Fair (Century 21 Exposition). Its design was intended to evoke the spirit of outer space exploration.

What are the hours of operation?

The fountain usually operates daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. year-round, though it may be closed for cleaning and maintenance following major events or festivals.

Who designed the fountain?

The original design was created by Tokyo-based architects Hideki Shimizu and Kazuyuki Matsushita.

How big is the fountain?

The fountain's bowl is 220 feet in diameter, while the dome is 10 feet tall and 27 feet wide. It has a water capacity of 9,000 gallons.

Where is it located?

It is located at 305 Harrison Street, Seattle, WA 98109, as a prominent feature of the Seattle Center near the Space Needle.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The International Fountain is a landmark of public art at the Seattle Center, originally constructed in 1961 for the 1962 World's Fair, also known as the Century 21 Exposition. The original design was crafted by Tokyo-based architects Hideki Shimizu and Kazuyuki Matsushita, intended to evoke the spirit of outer space exploration through its futuristic aesthetic. Over the decades, the fountain has undergone significant updates to maintain its grandeur. It was replaced and rebuilt in 1995, and more recently, it reopened in July 2021 after a three-month renovation. This 2021 project replaced 56 of the fountain's 274 water jets and installed new, colorful LED lighting to enhance the visual experience. Architecturally, the fountain is an impressive feat of engineering. The outer bowl is 220 feet in diameter, while the central metal water dome is 10 feet tall and 27 feet wide. The entire system manages a water capacity of 9,000 gallons, creating a dynamic display of water and light. Visitors can enjoy this open-air attraction as a relaxing spot to watch the water patterns. Because it is a public feature of the Seattle Center, it serves as a central hub for those exploring the surrounding campus.

Visitor tips

  • Check the Seattle Center website for current operating updates to avoid visiting during temporary maintenance closures.
  • Visit during the evening to see the new colorful LED lighting in full effect.
  • Allow a few minutes to walk around the 220-foot diameter bowl to see the water jets from different angles.

Nearby context

The International Fountain is a prominent feature at the Seattle Center, located near the Space Needle, making it a perfect midpoint for visitors exploring the city's cultural campus.

Sources

Evidence and links