
Peterborough Centennial Fountain
Canada's tallest jet fountain, soaring 250ft high, dazzling with nighttime lights and rainbows on sunny days.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warm weather & fountain lights

Peterborough Centennial Fountain
Best Time
Warm weather & fountain lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Canada's tallest jet fountain, soaring 250ft high, dazzling with nighttime lights and rainbows on sunny days.
"We are so very lucky to have a beautiful fountain in Little Lake. It lights up at night, offers a rainbow in the sun."

📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera! The fountain is spectacular both day and night, especially with its colorful illuminations. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Waterfront Stroll
Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic by Little Lake. The fountain is a perfect centerpiece for a relaxing afternoon. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tallest Jet Fountain in Canada
Little Lake
Witness Canada's tallest jet fountain, shooting water up to an astonishing 250 feet high. A true spectacle!

Nighttime Illumination
Little Lake
As dusk settles, the fountain transforms with beautiful, colorful lights, creating a magical ambiance.

Rainbows in the Sun
Little Lake
On sunny days, the mist from the powerful jets creates stunning rainbows, adding a touch of magic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
A Community Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera! The fountain is spectacular both day and night, especially with its colorful illuminations. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Waterfront Stroll
Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic by Little Lake. The fountain is a perfect centerpiece for a relaxing afternoon. :athletic_shoe:
Cheapskate City Hall
✨ Evening Spectacle
Don't miss the fountain after dark when it lights up. It's a truly mesmerizing sight that enhances the skyline. :sparkles:
🌈 Sun-Kissed Rainbows
Visit on a sunny day to catch the mist creating beautiful rainbows. It's a delightful surprise! :rainbow:
What’s that giant geyser?
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera! The fountain is spectacular both day and night, especially with its colorful illuminations. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Waterfront Stroll
Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic by Little Lake. The fountain is a perfect centerpiece for a relaxing afternoon. :athletic_shoe:
✨ Evening Spectacle
Don't miss the fountain after dark when it lights up. It's a truly mesmerizing sight that enhances the skyline. :sparkles:
🌈 Sun-Kissed Rainbows
Visit on a sunny day to catch the mist creating beautiful rainbows. It's a delightful surprise! :rainbow:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Peterborough Centennial Fountain as a spectacular and beautiful addition to the city's waterfront. Its impressive height and captivating nighttime illuminations are frequently highlighted as major draws, offering a refreshing and eye-catching centerpiece. While some find it simply 'a fountain,' most agree it's a visually striking and enjoyable attraction.
"We are so very lucky to have a beautiful fountain in Little Lake. It lights up at night, offers a rainbow in the sun and is a refreshing contrast within the skyline or scenery of the Peterborough waterfront. It is a beautiful edition to Musicfest too!"
Laura Montague
"It's beautiful. It's a great center of attention. It has beautiful colors. It's a lovely centerpiece for the water.
It definitely attracts your eye"
AnaughtyMiss
"It’s a fountain. What else can I say?"
Allison Winfield
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The fountain is located in the heart of downtown Peterborough on Little Lake. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transit also serves the downtown area, making it convenient to reach.
Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking available in the downtown area surrounding Little Lake. Some may have hourly fees.
Absolutely! Peterborough Transit operates routes that stop in the downtown core, providing easy access to the waterfront and the fountain. Check their schedule for the most convenient stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the Peterborough Centennial Fountain is completely free! It's a public attraction for everyone to enjoy.
The fountain typically operates during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall. It's usually active during daylight hours and illuminated in the evenings. Specific hours can vary, so checking local advisories is recommended.
The waterfront area around Little Lake, including the viewing spots for the fountain, is free to access. You can enjoy the scenery and the fountain without any cost.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, have a picnic, or simply relax and admire the fountain. It's also a popular spot during local events like Musicfest.
The waterfront pathways are generally paved and accessible, allowing for easy viewing of the fountain. However, specific accessibility details for all areas should be confirmed locally.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy by the lake. Please remember to clean up after yourself.
It's recognized as the tallest jet fountain in Canada, reaching heights of up to 250 feet. Its nighttime illumination and rainbow effects on sunny days add to its unique charm.
📸 📸 Photography
For dramatic shots, visit during sunset or after dark when the fountain is illuminated with colorful lights. Sunny afternoons are perfect for capturing rainbows.
The entire waterfront area offers excellent views. Consider different angles from the boardwalk, nearby parks, or even from a boat on Little Lake for unique perspectives.
For nighttime shots, a tripod is highly recommended to avoid blur. Experiment with longer exposure times to capture the light trails of the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours for the rainbow effect, or in the early evening to see the fountain begin its light show. While there aren't specific playgrounds directly at the fountain, the open space and the visual spectacle provide plenty of entertainment. Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, as much of the area is exposed.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
To capture the best shots, a tripod is essential for low-light photography to avoid blur. Experiment with different shutter speeds to freeze the water spray or create silky smooth water effects. The surrounding waterfront also offers opportunities for landscape shots, especially during golden hour or twilight.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spectacle of the Centennial Fountain
Locals and visitors alike appreciate the fountain as a central point of interest on the Peterborough waterfront. It serves as a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls, picnics, and community events. Its presence enhances the scenic beauty of the area, making it a refreshing contrast to the surrounding skyline. The fountain's ability to captivate with both its height and its illuminated artistry makes it a must-see attraction.
While the fountain is a significant draw, it's important to note that its operation and maintenance have been subjects of community discussion. However, its enduring appeal as a visual centerpiece and a source of local pride remains strong.
Experiencing the Waterfront
During the warmer months, the waterfront comes alive with activity. It's a popular venue for local events, most notably Musicfest, which draws crowds and adds a vibrant energy to the atmosphere. Being present during such events can offer a unique perspective on how the fountain integrates into the community's cultural life.
For those looking to capture the beauty of the fountain, the waterfront provides numerous vantage points. Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, the combination of the towering water jet, the surrounding natural beauty, and the evening illuminations offers endless photographic opportunities.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit