Vaillancourt Fountain in San Francisco
About
Vaillancourt Fountain stands as an iconic piece of public art in San Francisco's bustling Financial District. Designed by Armand Vaillancourt and completed in 1971, this raw and interactive fountain invites engagement and evokes reactions with its unapologetically confrontational style. Its unique design not only attracts art enthusiasts but also holds a nostalgic charm for countless visitors, making it a place of sentimental value. Ideal for families and pet owners alike, it's a must-visit spot for those looking to experience a distinctive and thought-provoking monument in the city.
Features
Pets allowed, Suitable for children, Wheelchair accessible entrance
Reviews and Ratings
Write a reviewThe fountain no longer works and has a barricade around it and is either being sold off or demolished soon at the time of writing this. The installation is beautiful tho, maybe a bit brutal for some but at one point it would have been a beautiful fountain with steps and views on top, stepping stones to walk on a long the wall on top of the water. It may not be working anymore but my imagination lets me create what it would have been and being there was amazing and just knowing millions of people have passed by it is great to know and feel too. See it before it goes! Maybe they save it, that's my hope, install it somewhere else or let citizens in San fransisco who want it to be able to take pieces with permission from the artist of course.
근사한 분수지만 지금은 폐허처럼 되어 있다. 어떤 아름다운 건축이나 조각도 망가진 사회에서는 힘이 얃해진다.
The Vaillancourt Fountain is far from universally loved—but that’s precisely what makes it compelling public art. It’s raw, interactive, and unapologetically confrontational. Its boldness invites us to question what public spaces—and art within them—should be. That said, aesthetic merit alone can't outweigh clear safety risks and extremely high upkeep costs. If San Francisco integrates the fountain into new park designs with structural reinforcement, restoration, and modernized safety features, it could satisfy both critics and fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the address of Vaillancourt Fountain?Vaillancourt Fountain is located at Vaillancourt Fountain, 94105, San Francisco, Financial District, USA.
- How to get here by public transport?The nearest public transport options provide quick and easy access:
- Bus stop Sansome St & Jackson St (589 m walk)
- Transit station The Embarcadero & Broadway (500 m walk)
- Bus stop San Francisco Ferry Building (73 m walk)
- Bus stop Clay St & Drumm St (142 m walk)
- How is Vaillancourt Fountain rated by visitors?Vaillancourt Fountain has an average rating of 3.9 based on 161 review across platforms such as Google.
- Is the venue suitable for children and families?Yes, the attraction is family-friendly and offers activities suitable for all ages.
- Is the venue pet-friendly?Vaillancourt Fountain is a pet-friendly venue where guests can bring their animals.
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