Meeting of the Waters Fountain, Saint Louis

The Meeting of the Waters Fountain is a stunning piece of public art located in Aloe Plaza. This fountain commemorates the confluence of the Mississippi River and Missouri River, which are the two longest rivers in North America. The fountain is the work of Carl Milles, a Swedish-born sculptor who drew inspiration from the work of the French Romantic Auguste Rodin.

As you approach the fountain, you'll be greeted by a group of bronze mythical creatures and allegorical characters that seem to be floating on a large pool. Take your time to peruse the intricate details of each sculpture. Notice the lifelike male and female figures that represent the Mississippi and Missouri rivers respectively. Behind them, you'll see water sprites, fish, and mermaids that symbolize the 17 principal tributaries of the two great rivers.

Milles' creativity is evident in every aspect of the fountain's construction. He not only created the bronze sculptures, but also designed the positioning of the jets, water pressure, and timing intervals. The result is a mesmerizing display of water shooting up from the pool and out of the mouths of fish, with the sculptures seeming to cavort playfully in the water.

If you're lucky enough to visit the fountain on a sunny day, you may even spot rainbows arching through the spray cloud. The Meeting of the Waters Fountain is the centerpiece of Aloe Plaza, and the grassy lawns surrounding the fountain are perfect for taking a break in this serene downtown corner.

Overlooking the southern side of the plaza is the grand Romanesque Revival-style Union Station, which used to be a passenger railway terminal but now houses shopping, dining, and entertainment attractions such as the St. Louis Aquarium. Be sure to include time in your schedule to enjoy these sites as well.