Close view of the tiered white fountain in Forsyth Park with water spraying

The Forsyth Park fountain: history and how to see it best

Savannah's most photographed landmark is a cast-iron fountain installed in 1858. Here's its story and how to visit when it's at its best.

Photo: Jennifer Morrow from San Francisco, CC BY 2.0

By ForsythPark.us editors · Updated

The Forsyth Park fountain was installed in 1858 and is the image most people picture when they think of Savannah. Made of cast iron and painted white, it stands at the north end of the park near Gaston Street, framed by live oaks. Its design follows a model from French sculptor Michel Lienard, and it has been restored several times, most recently in 1988 according to local histories.

Fountain facts

Installed 1858
Material Cast iron, painted white
Design Based on a design by Michel Lienard
Location North end of Forsyth Park, near Gaston St
Tradition Water dyed green each year for St. Patrick’s Day

When to visit

  • Early morning: soft light through the oaks and few people in your photos.
  • Golden hour: warm light on the white iron, but more visitors.
  • St. Patrick’s Day: the green water is a Savannah tradition – and the park is at its busiest.

Photo angle: stand on the main path a little south of the fountain and frame it between the two rows of oaks. A slightly low angle puts the tiers against the sky.

Combine it with

From the fountain, walk north on Bull Street through Savannah’s squares, or join a trolley or guided walk that passes the park.

More tour options on Viator

Historic Savannah Walking Tour

Guided stroll through the squares and streets of the Historic District, a Viator traveler pick.

See on Viator

Savannah Hop-on Hop-off Trolley

Viator best seller covering the Historic District's main sights with a stop near the park.

See on Viator

Frequently asked questions

How old is the Forsyth Park fountain?

It dates from 1858. It has been restored several times since, most recently in 1988 according to local histories.

Why is the fountain green?

Each year the water is dyed green for St. Patrick's Day, one of Savannah's biggest celebrations.

Where is the fountain in the park?

At the north end of Forsyth Park, near Gaston Street, at the head of the main path that runs south through the park.

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