La Fuente de la Amistad (Friendship Fountain), Puerto Vallarta
The Friendship Fountain, also known as the Dancing Dolphins Fountain, is a beloved landmark along Puerto Vallarta鈥檚 scenic Boardwalk. Created in 1987, this dynamic sculpture depicts three dolphins leaping joyfully from a bubbling fountain. Designed by artist James "Bud" Bottoms and assembled by Mexican sculptor Octavio Gonz谩lez Guti茅rrez, the piece symbolizes the close relationship between Puerto Vallarta and its Sister City, Santa Barbara, California鈥攁 partnership established in 1973 that has fostered many cultural exchanges and humanitarian initiatives over the years.
Originally placed near the center of the Boardwalk, the Friendship Fountain now sits just behind the iconic Arches and next to the Naval Historical Museum. The fountain鈥檚 playful, soaring dolphins have become an enduring symbol of unity and goodwill. Interestingly, the sculpture draws inspiration from Bottoms' earlier work in Santa Barbara, the Bicentennial Friendship Fountain, but Puerto Vallarta's version features a different layout creatively envisioned by Gonz谩lez during the assembly process.
Beyond its artistic beauty, the Friendship Fountain holds a special emotional significance for both locals and visitors. Its cheerful, uplifting design perfectly captures the spirit of Puerto Vallarta鈥攁 city known for its warmth, hospitality, and strong community ties.
Originally placed near the center of the Boardwalk, the Friendship Fountain now sits just behind the iconic Arches and next to the Naval Historical Museum. The fountain鈥檚 playful, soaring dolphins have become an enduring symbol of unity and goodwill. Interestingly, the sculpture draws inspiration from Bottoms' earlier work in Santa Barbara, the Bicentennial Friendship Fountain, but Puerto Vallarta's version features a different layout creatively envisioned by Gonz谩lez during the assembly process.
Beyond its artistic beauty, the Friendship Fountain holds a special emotional significance for both locals and visitors. Its cheerful, uplifting design perfectly captures the spirit of Puerto Vallarta鈥攁 city known for its warmth, hospitality, and strong community ties.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Puerto Vallarta. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "黑料吃瓜网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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La Fuente de la Amistad (Friendship Fountain) on Map
Sight Name: La Fuente de la Amistad (Friendship Fountain)
Sight Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (See walking tours in Puerto Vallarta)
Sight Type: Statue/Public Art
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (See walking tours in Puerto Vallarta)
Sight Type: Statue/Public Art
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Create Your Own Walk in Puerto Vallarta
Creating your own self-guided walk in Puerto Vallarta is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Puerto Vallarta Introduction Walking Tour
Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains; the essence of its culture, gastronomy and traditions; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit. ***PH***
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles