Amid a major convention center, hotels, office buildings and parking garages is an anomalous yet fitting contrast to concrete and asphalt. The Fort Worth Water Gardens is indeed an oasis. sited to intersperse business and art, active and passive, work and play.
This 4.3-acre urban park was dedicated to the City of Fort Worth by the Amon G. Carter Foundation in 1974. Architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee juxtaposed three contrasting water canvasses woven together by tree-lined pathways. open grassy interludes and dramatic sculptures. Collectively, the three water features engage our senses, challenge our boundaries and delight our souls.
The Active Pool is certainly no pool. It is a series of angled waterfalls that form dizzying peaks and valleys. Compounding this visual overload is the incessant roar of cascading water, rhythmic in tune to uneven steps and echoing in deep crevices. Brave visitors, like my husband Richard, take a broken path just a few inches above the flowing water.
Chasm!
Urban Waterfall
Brave Richard!
Just a few steps away is the contrasting Meditation Pool. Its still blue waters beckon you to calm your soul and reflect on the peaceful stillness. Whispering water gently pours over pebbled walls fronted by bald cypress trees.
Meditation Pool
Reflections in Many Dimensions
Water Wall
The Aerating Pool is a delightful display of small water drops sprayed out of rows of illuminated fountains. This hissing pool is liquid pointillism in constant motion – glimmering, dancing.
Aerating Pool
Hissing Waters
Liquid Pointillism
The non-water features are equally creative and fun.
Buttress Roots, or Knees, of Bald Cypress Trees Around Meditation Pool
Liquid Perspective
If you’re anywhere near the southern portion of Fort Worth, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is definitely a worthwhile day trip!
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