So… where do you start?
By John Gorman
Okay, you are ready to set out on an adventure discovering some of Portland’s famous water fountains. The good news is that the city’s fountains are generally easy to find and enjoy—if you have the right information.
Overview
As well as being surrounded by rivers and water-related activities, Portland is one of the most fountain-centric U.S. cities, with a well-regarded municipal water bureau that maintains 17 decorative outdoor fountains—as well as over 120 public drinking fountains. Many Portland water fountains are the winners of local and international design competitions; others were gifts and commissions to the city from prominent private citizens.
The Portland Water Bureau: your first-stop fountain resource
Portland’s Water Bureau will mail you a FREE copy of their “Downtown Fountain Tour Walking Map.” You can request that the full-sized map be mailed directly to you—or you can print out a copy of the downloadable .PDF file on any printer that can accommodate oversized pages.
NOTE: Most of Portland’s decorative fountains run spring through fall from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The city’s drinking fountains also run on timers.
First things first: DO NOT drink the water!
Unless otherwise indicated (as with the Benson Bubblers and others), Portland’s fountains are for admiring—not drinking. The water that runs through them is typically recycled and chlorinated, much like it would be in a swimming pool. Designated fountains are safe for pets.
What should I bring?
Of course, you do not really need to bring anything to enjoy Portland’s fountains. Still, if you are planning a trip, you might want to consider:
• A camera or sketchbook. Why not capture a memory from these one-of-a-kind municipal fountain treasures? Share them with families, friends and future generations.
• Swimsuit or appropriate clothes. If you are interested in splashing and wading, make sure you are wearing the right gear. It is the best way to re-live those wonderful childhood experiences.
• No coins! Please leave coins at home or in your pockets; it is not recommended to throw your coins into Portland’s outdoor fountains. Remember, there are many local organizations that can use your spare change to effect real change in the city’s communities.
How do I get there from here?
Most of Portland’s water fountains are easy to find and accessible via public transit within the “Fareless Square” of the city’s TriMet bus and MAX light-rail networks. Several notable fountains are also short walks from the Portland Streetcar’s main routes, and another collection can be found in the areas of West Burnside and TriMet Route 20.
Other Portland fountain treasures
This article overviews just a few of the wonderful outdoor water fountains Portland offers for residents and visitors. Consider them a starting point for your own explorations into these and other “trickling treasures” of this great Western U.S. city.
Back to: Fountains of Portland