Last updated: June 17, 2026
Place
Meridian Hill Park Cascades
DOI / Kelsey Graczyk
Quick Facts
Location:
Meridian Hill Park
Amenities
1 listed
Scenic View/Photo Spot
The 13-basin cascading fountain in Meridian Hill Park is one of the longest in North America. Water first flowed through this cascade in 1932. The cascades begin at a pool at the foot of the great wall and continue through thirteen basins to the lower plaza. Each step down the cascade is progressively wider than the step before it, an intentional design feature that makes the cascade look longer than it really is when viewed from the bottom.
After being defunct for seven years, the fountain was repaired and officially reopened in May 2026 pursuant to President Donald J. Trump's Executive Order 14252, "Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful."
Visit our Fountains page to learn about the operating status of the fountains in Rock Creek Park.
As a reminder: All park bodies of water, fountains, and memorial pools are closed to swimming, wading and bathing by people or household pets. See the Superintendent's Compendium for more information.
For more information about Meridian Hill Park, visit the Meridian Hill Park page on the Rock Creek Park website.