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Chicago's Iconic Water Tower

A symbol of Chicago's resilience, this 19th-century Gothic Revival landmark houses an art gallery on the Magnificent Mile.

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A symbol of Chicago's resilience, the Water Tower stands as one of the few structures to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. This 19th-century landmark, with its unique castellated Gothic Revival architecture, now houses an art gallery and visitor center.

A brief summary to Chicago,IL Historical Water Tower

  • 109 E Pearson St, Chicago, Streeterville, Illinois, 60611, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit the City Gallery inside the Water Tower to view works by local Chicago artists and photographers.
  • Explore the Jane Byrne Plaza surrounding the Water Tower for a relaxing break amidst the bustling Magnificent Mile.
  • Check out the Chicago Avenue Pumping Station across the street, which now houses the Lookingglass Theatre Company.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Water Tower Place mall, head north on Michigan Avenue for about 2 blocks. The Water Tower will be on your left, in the small Jane Byrne Plaza. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes serve the Water Tower area. From Chicago Union Station, take bus 151 to Michigan & Chestnut (North). The ride is approximately 27 minutes and costs $2.25. From there, the Water Tower is a short walk south.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Chicago. A taxi from Millennium Station to the Water Tower typically costs around $6 and takes about 8 minutes, depending on traffic. A ride-share from Water Tower Place to Chicago is about $8-$10.

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Discover more about Chicago,IL Historical Water Tower

The Chicago Water Tower, located on the Magnificent Mile, is more than just a pretty building; it's a symbol of Chicago's enduring spirit. Built in 1869, the 182.5-foot-tall structure was designed by architect William W. Boyington to house a large water pump and standpipe, intended to draw water from Lake Michigan. The tower's primary function was to regulate water pressure and prevent surges in the city's water system. The Water Tower is particularly famous for being one of the few public buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. While much of the city was reduced to ashes, the Water Tower remained standing, becoming a potent symbol of Chicago's determination to rebuild. The tower is built in the castellated Gothic Revival style using yellow Joliet limestone, giving it a distinctive medieval, castle-like appearance. Today, the Chicago Water Tower houses the City Gallery, an art space featuring works by local photographers and artists. The adjacent Chicago Avenue Pumping Station, also designed by Boyington, now houses the Lookingglass Theatre Company. Visitors can explore the tower, view the art exhibits, and learn more about Chicago's history at the visitor center. The surrounding area, known as Jane Byrne Plaza, provides a pleasant space to relax and admire the tower's architecture.

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