Fountain Square | Cincinnati

Fountain Square is the civic and cultural heart of downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. Established in the 19th century and continuously reimagined for contemporary urban life, it plays a central role in the city's identity and day-to-day activity.

Historical Overview

Founded: 1871

Donor: Henry Probasco, a prominent Cincinnati businessman, donated the square and the fountain in memory of his brother-in-law and business partner, Tyler Davidson.

Original Use of Site: Previously occupied by a butcher’s market.

The square was created as a public gathering space, with the centerpiece being the Tyler Davidson Fountain, officially known as The Genius of Water. It was cast in Munich, Germany by the Royal Bavarian Foundry and sculpted by Ferdinand von Miller.

The Tyler Davidson Fountain

Installed: October 6, 1871

Material: Bronze

Height: Approximately 43 feet

Design:

The central female figure represents the benevolence of water, with outstretched arms from which water cascades.

Surrounding figures depict various human interactions with water, such as bathing children, washing, and agricultural use.

The fountain was originally used as a drinking fountain and retains four water jets for public use.

This fountain has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Cincinnati, often featured in tourism materials and local events.

Renovations and Upgrades

1971 Renovation: For the centennial, the fountain was moved to the southern end of the square to allow better traffic flow and visual prominence.

2005–2006 Major Renovation:

The square was redesigned as a more pedestrian-focused space.

The fountain was repositioned to the center.

New granite surfacing, lighting, and landscaping were added.

An underground parking garage was expanded and upgraded.

New digital screens and sound systems were installed for events.

A seasonal outdoor ice rink was introduced for winter use.

This redesign was part of a broader initiative to reinvigorate downtown as a live-work-play destination.

Function and Activities

Fountain Square serves as the primary public square and event venue in the city. It hosts hundreds of free events and programs throughout the year, including:

Daily Lunch and Evening Programming

Live Music Concerts

Trivia and Game Nights

Summer Movie Series

Seasonal Festivals (including Oktoberfest events, food and drink festivals, cultural events)

Ice Skating Rink in the winter (usually from November to February)

Holiday Celebrations including a tree lighting ceremony and New Year’s Eve countdown

It also features cafe-style seating, public restrooms, and digital screens showing sports, news, or event announcements.

Surrounding Architecture and Businesses

Fountain Square is surrounded by a mix of historic and modern buildings. Notable nearby structures and businesses include:

Carew Tower: Art Deco skyscraper with observation deck views

Fifth Third Center: Office tower and corporate hub

Westin Hotel and Hilton Netherland Plaza: Major hotels adjacent to the square

Restaurants and Bars:

Via Vite (Italian dining)

Graeter’s Ice Cream (a Cincinnati favorite)

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse

March First Brewing and Royce (craft beverage venues)

The area is also near Macy’s corporate offices and other prominent downtown institutions

Accessibility and Amenities

Public Transit: Accessible via Metro bus lines and close to the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar

Parking: Underground garage accessible from multiple downtown streets

Security and Maintenance: Managed by 3CDC (Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation) to ensure the square is clean, safe, and well-programmed

Cultural Importance

Fountain Square is more than just a public park; it is a civic symbol, a cultural touchpoint, and a center of life in Cincinnati. Whether it’s being used for everyday lunch breaks, major celebrations like Reds Opening Day, or large-scale public gatherings, it continues to embody the spirit of the Queen City.