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City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower

Explore local art in a historic landmark, the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower, a survivor of the Great Chicago Fire, on Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

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Located on Chicago's Magnificent Mile, the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower showcases the work of local artists and photographers within a landmark that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The Water Tower, built between 1867 and 1869, is a treasured piece of Chicago's history and a symbol of the city's resilience.

A brief summary to City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more intimate experience with the art.
  • Check the City of Chicago's website for current exhibitions and events at the gallery.
  • Take a stroll around Jane Byrne Plaza surrounding the Water Tower for a relaxing break.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Water Tower Place mall, walk north along North Michigan Avenue for approximately 200 feet. The City Gallery will be on your left in the small park named Jane M. Byrne Plaza. There are no costs associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    Several CTA bus routes serve the Michigan Avenue area. Check the CTA website or app for real-time schedules and route information. The cost for a single bus ride is $2.25. Alternatively, the Chicago 'L' train has stations a few blocks west of Michigan Avenue; from there, transfer to a bus or walk. 'L' train fare is $2.50 per ride.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly in front of the Water Tower at 806 North Michigan Avenue. From downtown, a short taxi ride will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and surge pricing. Be aware of potential traffic congestion on Michigan Avenue, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower

The City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower offers a unique glimpse into Chicago's art scene and its storied past. Housed within the iconic Chicago Water Tower, the gallery features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art and photography by local artists. The Water Tower itself, constructed in 1869, is the second-oldest water tower in the United States and a landmark in the Old Chicago Water Tower District. The tower's castellated Gothic Revival style, designed by architect William W. Boyington, makes it a striking structure. Originally built to house a large water pump and standpipe for the city's municipal water system, it gained prominence as one of the few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. This survival cemented its place as a symbol of Chicago's enduring spirit. Today, the City Gallery not only provides a space for artistic expression but also offers visitors a chance to reflect on Chicago's history. The surrounding Jane M. Byrne Plaza provides a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation and appreciation of this unique landmark.

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