Chicago Water Tower
Streeterville & Magnificent Mile—sample rating
Bernt Rostad, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
About Chicago Water Tower
The Chicago Water Tower, located on Michigan Avenue, is an iconic piece of city infrastructure and a symbol of resilience. Built in the mid-19th century, it was designed to house a large standpipe for the city's water system, helping to regulate water pressure for firefighting and daily use. Its distinctive Gothic Revival architecture makes it a unique and easily recognizable structure. Erected between 1867 and 1869, the Water Tower famously survived the devastating Great Chicago Fire of 1871, along with the adjacent Chicago Pumping Station. While much of the city was reduced to ashes, these two structures stood as a testament to Chicago's determination to rebuild. Today, it remains the second-oldest water tower in the United States and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Chicago Water Tower is situated at 806 N Michigan Ave, placing it conveniently amidst the shops and attractions of the Magnificent Mile. As a public landmark, visitors can admire its exterior architecture at any time. While the tower itself does not offer tours, the nearby Chicago Pumping Station (now home to the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower) often hosts art exhibits, providing an opportunity to experience a piece of the original water infrastructure from the inside.
Why visit
Visit to appreciate a remarkable piece of Chicago's history and architecture that miraculously survived a pivotal event.
Best time to visit
The Water Tower can be viewed year-round during daylight hours. Early mornings or evenings might offer fewer crowds for photography.
Recommended duration
Allow about 0.3 hours (20 minutes).
Opening hours
Hours coming soon.
Check the official website for current hours.
Information may change — verify details before visiting.
Location
806 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
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Nearby attractions
- Art Institute of Chicago
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- Cloud Gate
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- Field Museum
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- Shedd Aquarium
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Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is a free-admission zoological park located in Chicago, offering a diverse collection of animals and engaging exhibits.
Nearby restaurants
Calumet Fisheries
Smoked fish · $$
Girl & The Goat
Modern American · $$$ · West Loop
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Deep-dish pizza · $$ · River North
Pequod's Pizza
Pan pizza · $$ · Lincoln Park
Gene & Georgetti
Steakhouse · $$$$ · River North
Al's #1 Italian Beef
Italian beef · $
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