The Fountains at WaterWalk in Wichita are back and worth a visit in the evening. The Fountains at WaterWalk, often called the Waltzing Waters, have returned after a three-year absence and are once again lighting up with their choreographed water displays.
If you haven’t visited WaterWalk lately, now is the perfect time. After being shut down during the drought in 2023, the fountains sat silent for three years. This summer, they’re back and putting on their signature show Thursday through Sunday evenings. Best of all, it’s completely free to enjoy.
It’s one of those simple, inexpensive outings that remind you why Wichita is such a great place to call home.
And based on the reaction to City Councilman Dalton Glasscock’s announcement on social media, many Wichitans didn’t even know they existed. If that’s you, you’re in for a treat. If you’ve seen them before, you know exactly why this is good news.
What Are the WaterWalk Fountains?
The fountains were installed in October 2012 as part of Wichita’s ongoing investment in downtown riverfront development. They stretch 150 feet and feature more than 1,200 custom-designed, patented nozzles. Each show runs 10 to 15 minutes and is choreographed to music — country, classic rock, classical, 80s rock, and more. The combination of moving water, colorful lights, and a good soundtrack makes every show feel a little different.
Where Are Wichita’s WaterWalk Fountains?
They’re located at 605 S. Wichita Street, near the Wichita Boathouse, east of Gander Mountain.
When Are the WaterWalk Fountains On?
The regular season runs May through October. Four shows take place Thursday through Sunday at 7 pm, 8 pm, 9 pm, and 10 pm. Each show is 10 to 15 minutes long.
One caveat that is very Wichita: the show will not run if winds exceed 15 miles per hour. Check before you go, especially in spring.
Always verify the current schedule on the City of Wichita’s Fountains page since times can change.
Is There Free Parking at the WaterWalk Fountains?
Free parking is usually available outside of the City’s paid parking hours, unless event parking rates are in effect. Public parking near the WaterWalk Fountains is available in the Gander Mountain parking garage, the WaterWalk parking garage off Main Street, and the open lot just west of the WaterWalk building. There’s also paid on-street parking along William Street and near Century II across from the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum. It’s just a short walk to the fountains from any of these locations.
Events at the WaterWalk Fountains and Nearby Attractions
The fountains pair perfectly with the Final Friday Food Truck Rally at the Boathouse, which happens right next door. They’re also a natural addition to a free or cheap date night in Wichita. While you’re in the area, look for the Paragon sculpture at the southwest corner of Main and Waterman — a striking steel and bronze spire by artist Albert Paley representing Wichita’s Native American heritage and aviation history, open 24/7.
After the sun goes down, the light and water effects make this one of those uniquely Wichita experiences that’s more fun than you’d expect, and one of the more photogenic spots in all of downtown, with the colorful reflections in the fountain pool and the city lights as your backdrop.
Are the WaterWalk Fountains Free?
Yes, the Fountains are free with no admission fee, no tickets, no reservations needed. Free, beautiful, and right in the heart of downtown, the WaterWalk Fountains are one of those Wichita things that remind you what a genuinely cool city this is. Welcome back, Waltzing Waters.
Quick Details
- Free admission
- Season: May–October
- Shows: Thursday–Sunday at 7, 8, 9, and 10 pm
- Each show: 10–15 minutes
- No show if winds exceed 15 mph
- Address: 605 S. Wichita Street, near the Wichita Boathouse
- Current schedule: City of Wichita
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