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The Fountain

Location

Scioto Mile Fountain
233 S Civic Center Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43215

Hours

May 22 – Sept. 7, daily
11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Current Status

The fountain is open today. Enjoy your visit.

Sensory Friendly Hour

Mondays, May 25 – Sept. 7
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Visit the Scioto Mile Fountain

Since opening in 2011, the Scioto Mile Fountain has become one of downtown Columbus’ most recognizable riverfront landmarks.

In 2024, the fountain was enhanced to create an even more dynamic and welcoming experience.

The Scioto Mile Fountain is managed by Downtown Columbus, Inc. in partnership with Columbus Recreation and Parks.

New and Enhanced Features

The updated fountain includes a range of exciting additions:

300 Fog Nozzles

Three stainless steel halo structures featuring more than 300 fog nozzles

Speaker System

Advanced surround-sound speaker system that enhances the atmosphere throughout the plaza

Super Shooter

A dramatic super shooter capable of launching water jets up to 100 feet into the air

344 Playful Sprites

Hundreds of playful water sprites that dance across the plaza surface

Seating & Shade

New seating and shade areas so visitors can relax comfortably nearby

Color Lights

Vibrant color-changing lights that transform the fountain after dark

Weather and Safety Updates

To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, the Scioto Mile Fountain may temporarily close during certain conditions.

Severe Weather

The fountain closes during lightning and severe weather and reopens when conditions are safe.

Hourly Breaks

Brief maintenance pauses happen on the hour.

Cool Temperatures

The fountain may not operate when temperatures are too cool for safe play.

Health & Sanitation

Water quality is monitored continuously and the fountain may pause for sanitation.

Light Show Hours

Evening light shows run after dusk during the operating season.

Fountain Rules

To help keep the Scioto Mile Fountain safe, clean and enjoyable for everyone, please follow these rules during your visit.

Health & Hygiene

Illness

Please do not enter the fountain if you have been ill recently

Fountain Water

Do not drink the fountain water

Swim Diapers

Children who are not toilet trained must wear swim diapers

Restroom Breaks

Take children on frequent restroom breaks

Diaper Changes

Change diapers in restrooms, never in the fountain area

Washing Hands

Wash hands after restroom use and before returning to play

Safety Guidelines

Amplified Sound

No amplified sound without a permit

Vehicles

No motorized vehicles in the fountain plaza

Fountain Structure

Do not climb on the fountain structures or halos

Prohibited in the Fountain Area

The following activities and items are permitted in the park but not allowed in the fountain area:

NO:

  • Running
  • Food or beverages
  • Pets
  • Balls and toys

Prohibited in Bicentennial Park or the Fountain Area

NO:

  • Scooters, skateboards, bicycles or skates
  • Open fires, grills, shade canopies, pop-up tents or camping
  • Soliciting or panhandling
  • Smoking or vaping

For your safety, please follow all staff instructions while visiting. Security is available 24/7. For questions or concerns, visit the information kiosk.

Tips for a Great Fountain Experience

A few things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit:

Meeting Point

Talk with children in your group about what to do if you become separated, and agree on a meeting point before you start playing.

Sensory Sensitivities

Visitors with sensory sensitivities should be aware that the super shooter jet can be loud. Sensory friendly hours are available on Mondays.

Contact Scioto Mile

Still have questions or need help planning your visit? Reach out to our team.

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