The Majestic Compton Hill Water Tower
Discover the historic Compton Hill Water Tower, an architectural gem and museum offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into St. Louis' waterworks history.
A brief summary to Compton Hill Water Tower
- 1700-1898 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis, Compton Heights, Missouri, 63104, US
- +1314-552-9000
The Compton Hill Water Tower is a brilliant example of Romanesque Revival architecture, standing as a proud sentinel over the vibrant city of St. Louis. Completed in 1898, this striking structure served as a vital part of the city's waterworks system and remains an important historical landmark today. Visitors are drawn to its impressive brick and stone façade, intricate detailing, and towering presence that speaks to the city's engineering prowess of the late 19th century. As a museum and tourist attraction, the Compton Hill Water Tower offers more than just a feast for the eyes. Guests can explore informative exhibits detailing the tower's history, its role in St. Louis' development, and the evolution of the city's water supply systems. For those seeking a bit of adventure, climbing to the top of the tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of the cityscape and the sprawling landscapes beyond. The experience is both educational and exhilarating, making it a perfect stop for families, history buffs, and architecture enthusiasts alike. Surrounded by the charming Compton Heights neighborhood, the area around the water tower is also worth exploring. With lush parks, historic homes, and delightful local eateries, tourists can easily spend a day wandering through this picturesque part of St. Louis. Whether you're taking in the view from the tower or enjoying a leisurely stroll in the nearby parks, the Compton Hill Water Tower is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the rich culture and history of St. Louis.
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the weekend when the tower is open for tours.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the top of the tower.
- Check the weather before your visit, as the views are best on clear days.
- Explore the surrounding Compton Heights neighborhood for charming architecture and parks.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Central West End, head south on Euclid Avenue towards Lindell Boulevard. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Grand Boulevard. Turn left onto Grand Boulevard and walk for approximately 0.6 miles (about 12 minutes on foot). The Compton Hill Water Tower will be on your right at 1700-1898 S Grand Blvd. Enjoy the scenic views along the way, including the historic architecture of the Central West End.
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Public Transit - MetroLink
Begin at the Central West End MetroLink station. Board the MetroLink train heading southbound toward the Shrewsbury-Lansdowne I-44 station. Ride for 4 stops and get off at the Grand station. Once you exit the station, walk east on Washington Boulevard until you reach Grand Boulevard. Turn left on Grand Boulevard and walk south for about 0.3 miles (approximately 6 minutes). The Compton Hill Water Tower will be on your right. Note: A MetroLink ticket costs around $2.50.
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Public Transit - Bus
Locate the nearest bus stop in Central West End. You can take Bus #10 (Gravois-Lindell) or Bus #11 (Chippewa). Board the bus going south and ride for approximately 5-6 stops (around 10-15 minutes). Get off at the Grand Blvd & Chippewa St stop. From there, walk north on Grand Boulevard for about 0.2 miles (approximately 4 minutes) to reach Compton Hill Water Tower at 1700-1898 S Grand Blvd. Please check the local bus schedule for exact timings and routes.
Attractions Nearby to Compton Hill Water Tower
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Tower Grove Park
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Tower Grove House
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Missouri Botanical Garden
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Samuel Cupples House
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The Moto Museum
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Soulard Art Gallery
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Anheuser-Busch St. Louis Brewery
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Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
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St. Louis Union Station
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The St. Louis Wheel
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St. Louis Union Station Carousel
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St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station
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St. Louis Union Station Mirror Maze
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Saint Louis Science Center
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Scott Joplin House State Historic Site
Landmarks nearby to Compton Hill Water Tower
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Statue of the Naked Truth
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Tower Grove Abbey
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Herring House
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Lafayette Square
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Friedrich Hecker Monument
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Aboussie Park
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Soulard Station
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Pulitzer Arts Foundation
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The Dark Room at The Grandel
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Landmarks Association of St Louis, Inc
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The Franklin of Soulard
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Lemp Mansion
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Meeting of the Waters Fountain and Sculpture
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Historic Trinity
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Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion