Westcott Building and Fountain
The iconic Westcott Building and Fountain at FSU, famous for its 21st birthday tradition and as a beloved campus landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, student life
Westcott Building and Fountain
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere, student life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The iconic Westcott Building and Fountain at FSU, famous for its 21st birthday tradition and as a beloved campus landmark.
"This iconic fountain is great for throwing your best friends in for dip on their birthday."
🎯 21st Birthday Tradition
Get ready to be tossed in for your 21st! It's a classic FSU rite of passage.
📸 Graduation Photo Op
This iconic spot is perfect for graduation photos. Book photographers in advance!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Westcott Fountain Toss
Westcott Fountain
The quintessential FSU experience: getting tossed into the fountain for your 21st birthday!
Westcott Building Architecture
Westcott Building
Admire the impressive architecture of this historic FSU landmark.
Graduation Photo Spot
Westcott Fountain and Building
A beloved backdrop for graduation photos, capturing memories of FSU life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Birthday Tradition
Iconic Campus Landmark
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 21st Birthday Tradition
Get ready to be tossed in for your 21st! It's a classic FSU rite of passage.
📸 Graduation Photo Op
This iconic spot is perfect for graduation photos. Book photographers in advance!
Regarding the tradition of going into Wescott Fountain on your birthday...
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely be walking around campus, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Capture the Moment
Don't forget your phone for photos and videos of the fountain fun! :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 21st Birthday Tradition
Get ready to be tossed in for your 21st! It's a classic FSU rite of passage.
📸 Graduation Photo Op
This iconic spot is perfect for graduation photos. Book photographers in advance!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely be walking around campus, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Capture the Moment
Don't forget your phone for photos and videos of the fountain fun! :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Westcott Building and Fountain as an iconic and memorable FSU landmark, especially for its cherished 21st birthday tradition and as a prime spot for graduation photos. The recent addition of astro turf has been well-received for improving the grounds. Some note that historical statues may not align with modern social views.
"Just graduated this past May from FSU, and I can’t help but reflect on how beautiful and iconic the Westcott Fountain is. It holds so many memories—especially those countless 12 a.m. fountain throws. Hard to believe how quickly these four years have flown by."
Christine Renjit
"Took the grandson to see the FSU campus. No trip is complete without seeing the fountain. Fond memories of when our twins were students here."
Renee Campbell
"This iconic fountain is great for throwing your best friends in for dip on their birthday. It also happens to be a favorite for graduation photos as well."
Robert Gill
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Westcott Building and Fountain are located at the heart of the Florida State University campus in Tallahassee, Florida. If driving, use campus parking information for visitor lots. Public transport options may also be available depending on your starting point.
Visitor parking is available on the FSU campus, but it can be limited, especially during peak times. Check the FSU Parking and Transportation website for the most current information on visitor lots and rates.
Absolutely! The Westcott Building and Fountain are iconic landmarks on the FSU campus and are accessible to visitors. It's a popular spot for prospective students and tourists alike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to visit or view the Westcott Building and Fountain. It is an open public space on the FSU campus. :ticket:
The fountain area is generally accessible during daylight hours and is a central part of the campus. There are no specific closing times for viewing the exterior. :clock3:
There is no admission fee to see the exterior of the Westcott Building or the fountain. Access to specific offices or events within the building may vary. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The popular tradition involves friends tossing the birthday person into the Westcott Fountain, especially for their 21st birthday. It's a memorable FSU rite of passage.
Yes, it's a well-known tradition, particularly for 21st birthdays. Some Redditors mention that as long as you're a 'Nole,' you can go in on other birthdays too.
New astro turf has been installed around the fountain, described as soft and natural-colored, providing a better alternative to real grass which struggled with chlorine and visitors.
Yes, the area features statuary. However, be aware that some figures memorialized may not align with modern social awareness standards.
While the exterior is always accessible, tours of the Westcott Building itself might be part of official FSU campus tours. Check with the university's admissions or visitor center for details. :world_map:
📸 📸 Photography
The fountain itself, with the Westcott Building as a backdrop, is the prime photo spot. Consider angles from the surrounding newly turfed areas for a broader campus view.
Evenings can offer beautiful lighting, and during graduation season, the atmosphere is particularly lively for photos. Early mornings might offer fewer crowds. :camerawithflash:
Generally, casual photography is allowed. For professional shoots, especially during busy periods like graduation, it's wise to check FSU's policies or secure necessary permissions. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎓 Graduating Students
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Westcott Fountain Tradition
While the 21st birthday is the most celebrated occasion, the fountain is a gathering spot throughout the year. Redditors have shared that the tradition isn't strictly limited, and students often participate on other birthdays as well, reinforcing its status as a beloved campus landmark. The area around the fountain has also seen recent improvements, with new, natural-colored astro turf replacing traditional grass, offering a softer and more durable surface for visitors.
Beyond the traditions, the Westcott Building and Fountain serve as a picturesque backdrop for graduation photos. The combination of the historic architecture and the dynamic fountain creates a classic FSU scene that graduates cherish. It's a place where memories are made and celebrated, embodying the spirit of the university.
Architectural Significance and Campus Hub
This area is a crucial campus hub, frequently bustling with student activity, especially during events and transitions like graduation. The fountain's presence adds a dynamic element to the otherwise stately architecture of the Westcott Building. It's a place where students gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories, contributing to the overall campus atmosphere.
While the architecture is a draw, it's important to note that some of the historical figures or statues incorporated into the area might reflect social values that differ from contemporary standards. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the historical context while being mindful of evolving societal perspectives.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit