Showalter Fountain
A picturesque central gathering spot on the Indiana University campus, known for its beauty and role in student life and events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Lively events & community
Showalter Fountain
Best Time
Lively events & community
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque central gathering spot on the Indiana University campus, known for its beauty and role in student life and events.
"Showalter Fountain is a great little middle of campus spot, surrounded by iconic campus landmarks and is one too."
🎯 Catch a First Thursday
Don't miss these vibrant monthly events with art, music, and local vendors!
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
The fountain with the IU Auditorium in the background is a must-capture moment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Fountain's Flow
Center of campus
A picturesque centerpiece, the fountain offers a refreshing visual and auditory experience, especially on warm days.
First Thursdays Events
Around the fountain
Experience local art, music, and community at these lively monthly gatherings. A true taste of campus culture.
IU Auditorium Views
East of the fountain
Enjoy the iconic IU Auditorium as a backdrop, a stunning architectural landmark perfect for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Campus Hub & Meeting Point
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch a First Thursday
Don't miss these vibrant monthly events with art, music, and local vendors! 
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
The fountain with the IU Auditorium in the background is a must-capture moment.
🤝 Great Meeting Point
A central and easily recognizable spot for meeting up with friends on campus.
💧 Splash into Events
Check for special events like the Burmese New Year Water Festival!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch a First Thursday
Don't miss these vibrant monthly events with art, music, and local vendors!
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
The fountain with the IU Auditorium in the background is a must-capture moment.
🤝 Great Meeting Point
A central and easily recognizable spot for meeting up with friends on campus.
💧 Splash into Events
Check for special events like the Burmese New Year Water Festival!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Showalter Fountain is a beloved central gathering spot on the Indiana University campus, praised for its picturesque setting and role in campus life. Many visitors cherish it as a meeting point and a backdrop for significant memories, especially during vibrant campus events.
"Showalter Fountain is the place I met my husband. In the summer of 1991, I was subletting from a friend and I was bored at night. I started a fountain gathering at Showalter Fountain and went there at midnight EVERY night and brought my "boom box" for people to bring tapes or CDs of their favorite music. I posted it on the vax forum under a topic called fountain gathering. The first night a few people showed up. That was June 10, 1991. The second night, my husband showed up with his best friend who happened to be there the first night. And two years later, we were married in June of 1993. Showalter Fountain is a great little middle of campus spot. It is surrounded by iconic campus landmarks and is one too. The IU Auditorium is immediately east of the fountain and plays host to many wonderful shows."
Jennifer Warf
"Love the little roundabout right in front of the auditorium. IU organises First Thursday events here."
Deepak Singh Bhadoriya
"The campus is very beautiful in general, and this area around the auditorium is very nice. The fountain is a really neat focal point"
Natalia M
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Showalter Fountain is located centrally on the Indiana University Bloomington campus, making it easily accessible on foot. If driving, there are several parking garages and lots nearby, such as the Jordan Hall Garage or the Poplars Garage.
Yes, the fountain is well-served by local Bloomington Transit bus routes that stop frequently around the Indiana University campus. Check the Bloomington Transit schedule for routes and stops closest to the fountain.
Absolutely! There are numerous bike racks around the Indiana University campus, including near the IU Auditorium and Showalter Fountain, making it a convenient option for cyclists.
Several parking garages are available near the fountain, including the Jordan Hall Garage and the Poplars Garage. Metered street parking may also be available, but can be limited during peak hours.
Showalter Fountain is situated directly in front of the iconic IU Auditorium, making it a very easy landmark to find on the Indiana University campus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Showalter Fountain is a public space on the Indiana University campus and does not require an admission ticket. You can visit it freely at any time.
As an outdoor campus landmark, Showalter Fountain is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding campus areas may have specific hours for buildings and facilities.
There are no fees to visit or enjoy Showalter Fountain itself. Any costs would be related to parking or attending specific events held nearby.
While the fountain is a public space, large organized events might require coordination with Indiana University's event services. Smaller gatherings are generally welcome.
To avoid crowds, visiting during off-peak hours like early mornings or late evenings on weekdays is recommended. Weekends and during major campus events can be busier.
📸 📸 Photography
The fountain itself, with the IU Auditorium as a backdrop, is a prime photo spot. The surrounding campus architecture and greenery also offer beautiful shots.
Yes, professional photography is generally permitted in outdoor public spaces like Showalter Fountain. For large commercial shoots, it's always best to check with Indiana University's campus policies.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the fountain's water can help diffuse light.
Drone usage on university campuses is often restricted due to safety and privacy concerns. It's advisable to check Indiana University's specific policies regarding drone operation.
Visitors often capture wide shots of the fountain and auditorium, close-ups of the water, and candid shots of people enjoying the space. It's also a popular spot for graduation photos.
🎫 🏛️ Campus Experience
Showalter Fountain is known as a central gathering spot on the Indiana University campus, a beautiful focal point, and a venue for various campus events like 'First Thursdays'. It also holds sentimental value for many alumni.
The iconic IU Auditorium is directly east of the fountain. Other nearby landmarks include the Herman B Wells Library and various academic buildings.
Yes, Showalter Fountain is a popular location for campus events, including 'First Thursdays,' student organization fairs, cultural festivals, and informal gatherings.
Absolutely. The sound of the water and the surrounding campus atmosphere make it a pleasant spot to sit, relax, and people-watch.
Designed by renowned Jewish architect Alvin M. Strauss, Showalter Fountain is one of approximately 13 buildings he designed on the Indiana University campus.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye out for campus events like 'First Thursdays' which can be particularly engaging for children with their mix of art, music, and community activities. The fountain's central location also makes it easy to combine a visit with exploring other nearby campus attractions.
🎓 Students and Alumni
Attending 'First Thursdays' or other campus events held at the fountain offers a chance to connect with the vibrant student community. It's a place that embodies the spirit and energy of IU Bloomington.
+1📸 Photographers and Content Creators
'First Thursdays' events are a fantastic opportunity for content creators to capture dynamic shots of local art, performances, and the lively atmosphere.
+2 Remember to be mindful of campus policies regarding professional equipment or drone usage. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Campus Life
Many students and alumni share fond memories associated with the fountain, highlighting its role in their college experience. It's a place where friendships have been forged and significant campus events have taken place. The fountain's accessibility and its picturesque setting contribute to its enduring popularity as a gathering space.
Beyond its role as a meeting spot, Showalter Fountain is also a venue for various campus activities. Events like 'First Thursdays' transform the area into a lively marketplace of art and culture, drawing crowds and showcasing local talent.
+2 Other cultural celebrations, such as the Burmese New Year Water Festival, also find a fitting home around the fountain, adding to its dynamic character. Architectural Significance and Design
Strauss's work at IU includes other notable structures like the Maurer School of Law, Woodburn Hall, Swain Hall, the School of Music, Jordan Hall, and Myers Hall. The inclusion of Showalter Fountain in his portfolio underscores its importance as a designed element within the campus's broader architectural landscape. The fountain's design contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal and functionality of the central campus area.
The fountain's placement in front of the iconic IU Auditorium further enhances its visual impact. This strategic positioning creates a grand entrance and a memorable focal point for the university. The interplay between the fountain's water features and the auditorium's architecture creates a harmonious and impressive scene, appreciated by many who visit the campus.
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