Throughout history, fountains have been a reliable source for providing great tasting water for thirsty travelers.  But these next six fountains beg to differ. They’ve broken out of their everyday routine, and with the help of gravity, colorful lights (and music for some) put on a show that gravitates curious spectators from near and far. From Dubai to Washington, D.C., the following water fountains prove that some serve a greater purpose than quenching thirst; some are born to perform.

Seoul: The Magic Rainbow Fountain

A bridge spouting colorful water is not something we see every day, but in Seoul the Banpo Bridge continuously makes history.  Not only is it actually two bridges stacked on each other like bunk beds (the bottom one is called Jamsu Bridge) over the Han River, but when the bridges’ pumps are filled with water from the river, it becomes illuminated by LED lights as the water empties back into the river from a height slightly above 60 feet.

This spectacular water display is known as the Moonlight Fountain Show and it is a must-see for anyone visiting the city of Seoul during April to November. Although it also occurs during the day, its rainbow effect creates an awesome nightly spectacle.

Dubai: The Dubai Fountain

Bedecked with futuristic buildings almost piercing the sky, of course a rich city like Dubai would create the largest choreographed fountain in the world to match. 22,000 gallons of water can be ejected from the fountain, and when it is accentuated by a myriad of colorful bright lights and music, it can be seen and heard from miles away.  From hits like Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to Whitney Houston’s “I will Always Love You,” you might be surprised by the song it chooses to serenade its guests next.

This spectacular water show takes place from 1-3 p.m. and every half hour between 6-10 p.m. on Sunday to Wednesday, and on Thursday to Saturday it can be viewed from 6-11 p.m..

Saudi Arabia: Jeddah’s Fountain

Also known as King Fahd’s Fountain, The Jeddah’s Fountain is so tall it can be seen from  all angles of the city of Jeddah.  hat’s because water is emitted 1,024 feet into the air on a calm day, making it the world’s tallest fountain of its kind.  However, unlike most waterfalls, seawater is filtered through various processes before it is pumped out at an astounding 233 miles per hour. 

Just imagine looking up and witnessing tons of water punctuating the sky like a tsunami.  Although the Jeddah’s Fountain is a mindboggling experience, staring at its shimmering features may result in the ultimate neck sore.

Philippines: Dancing Fountain of Luneta Park

Its name speaks for itself.  That’s because the fountain’s beautifully lit waters splash in harmony to the song featured during the water show. 

The famous Philippine spectacle is regularly encircled by spectators oohing and aahing over the visual effects intensified with bright purples, pinks, oranges and reds.  If you’re looking for an aquatic adventure without wanting to get wet, then make your way to the Dancing Fountain of Luneta Park to see what happens when its waters dance in the dark.

Rome, Italy: The Trevi Fountain

When it comes to the granddaddy of all water fountains in Rome, the Trevi Fountain arguably comes in first, and by pressing play it’s very easy to see why.  It is an architectural beauty gleaming in baroque décor that has been an iconic symbol of Rome’s past since the 1760s.

In true Romanesque fashion, Neptune, the god of the sea, is the focal character of the fountain as he is seen riding two seahorses, which represent the dual calm and rough natures of the sea.  Other important figures are also used to demonstrate the ancient beliefs of the Romans.  As beautiful as the Trevi Fountain is, it is also marked by tradition. If you throw a coin into the fountain’s basin with your right hand placed over your left shoulder while backing the fountain, you will return to Rome. However, you must not look back while tossing the coin.

Washington, D.C.: WWII Memorial Fountain

In memory of the millions of people who have dedicated their lives during the war, the WWII Memorial Fountain profoundly sits amid the Lincoln Memorial as well as the Washington Monument.  

Visiting the iconic fountain is just as rewarding as the other important structures decorating the area, especially since it is surrounded by huge works of art that features sentimental tributes to military forces and historic battles.  Even as water gushes from its pumps, its vivacious sprouts appear to be a beacon of light amid a history plagued by warfare.