fountain[hid]

downtown wichita has several great fountains, although you'd never know it driving down douglas. for some strange reason most of these fountains are hidden; placed in sunken plazas, behind trees, or off the beaten path, which is a shame because they really are quite beautiful.  if you get the chance, take a walk down douglas and check out these hidden gems, especially the incredibly serene fountain tucked back from the sidewalk in front of the intrust bank building, which is now one of my favorite spots in downtown.

i'm still undecided whether or not, the fact these fountains are "hidden" makes them more special or not.  part of me thinks it's great you almost have to "discover" these little urban oases. the architect side however, would love nothing more than to see crowds of people around these fountains enjoying the cooling relief they provide. a situation that might be possible if they were in better view of the public.

i have no idea whether or not these fountains have "official" names, if so please let me know, but the first two pictures are near kennedy plaza, then outside intrust bank, next outside the garvey center, and finally the fountains of finlay ross park. so whether you like large public, interactive fountains or the more subtle and reflective kind, i hope you take time to enjoy the downtown fountains before winter sets in.