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fountain
Cascading Fountain
What people say
The park's restored thirteen-basin Italianate cascade descends through the lower terraces toward the reflecting pool. Enter the lower park near 16th Street and Florida Avenue for the easiest direct approach; upper-park entry requires descending terraces. Viewing is free during park hours. Swimming and wading are prohibited, and testing, maintenance, weather, or restoration work can stop the water or restrict access.
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Joan of Arc Statue
An equestrian bronze Joan of Arc crowns a pedestal in the upper park and is the only equestrian statue of a woman in Washington's public collection.
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lawn
Meridian Hill Upper Lawn
The broad upper terrace lawn supports neighborhood relaxation, informal games, views, and the long-running Sunday drum gathering.
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plaza
Meridian Hill Lower Plaza
The lower formal plaza anchors the cascade with reflecting space, terraces, sculpture, and an accessible approach near Florida Avenue.
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Meridian Hill Sunday Drum Circle
A longstanding Sunday gathering brings drumming, dancing, music, and community activity to the upper park lawn when weather and conditions allow.
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public_art
Dante Statue
A bronze seated Dante Alighieri stands on the east side of the upper terraces as part of the park's international sculpture collection.
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memorial
James Buchanan Memorial
A large Beaux-Arts memorial with a seated President Buchanan and allegorical figures stands near the lower park's west side.Public record
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10 answers
Frequently requested details, researched and kept current by AuditMap.
Where exactly is Cascading Fountain?
Enter the lower park near 16th Street and Florida Avenue for the easiest direct approach; upper-park entry requires descending terraces.
Where should I park for Cascading Fountain?
There is no large park lot. Use legal neighborhood street parking, bus, bikeshare, or a nearby Metro approach and respect residential restrictions.
When is Cascading Fountain open?
Viewing is free during park hours. Swimming and wading are prohibited, and testing, maintenance, weather, or restoration work can stop the water or restrict access.
Are there restrooms near Cascading Fountain?
There is no dependable restroom at the fountain.
Is Cascading Fountain free?
General park access is free. Organized events, commercial activity, and some gatherings require permits.
How accessible is Cascading Fountain?
A newer accessible route serves the lower park near 16th Street and Florida Avenue. The historic terraces, stairs, grades, and construction zones still require destination-specific planning.
Are dogs allowed at Cascading Fountain?
Dogs must remain leashed and under control. Keep pets out of fountain basins, planted areas, events, and restoration zones and remove waste.
Is Cascading Fountain good for children?
Lawns, sculpture, views, and the cascade make a rewarding short visit. Closely supervise children around stairs, walls, streets, and water; swimming and wading are prohibited.
What should I know before visiting Cascading Fountain?
Viewing is free during park hours. Swimming and wading are prohibited, and testing, maintenance, weather, or restoration work can stop the water or restrict access.
How do you reach Cascading Fountain?
Frequent buses serve 16th Street, and Columbia Heights and U Street Metro stations are walkable from different sides. Choose the approach that avoids an unnecessary climb.
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