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At a glance

#4 of 26 Historical landmarks in Chicago

LocalGuideWorld score: 4.76

1.4 km from the center of Chicago

Rating breakdown

  • 5 ★87%
  • 4 ★9%
  • 3 ★3%
  • 2 ★1%
  • 1 ★0%
806 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 1
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 2
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 3
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 4
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 5
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Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 8
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 9
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 10
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 11
Chicago Water Tower, Chicago – photo 12

Quick facts

What is the rating of Chicago Water Tower?
Chicago Water Tower is rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 70 reviews.
How does Chicago Water Tower rank in Chicago?
Chicago Water Tower is #4 of 26 Historical landmarks in Chicago by LocalGuideWorld score (rating weighted by number of reviews).
Where is Chicago Water Tower located?
806 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States — 1.4 km from the center of Chicago.
How can I contact Chicago Water Tower?
Website: en.m.wikipedia.org
Ciara
Chicago Water Tower is a historic landmark located on North Michigan Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. Built in 1869, this limestone tower is one of the few surviving structures that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. With its distinctive castle-like appearance, the Chicago Water Tower has become an iconic symbol of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.

Designed by architect William W. Boyington, the Water Tower was originally constructed to house a 135-foot tall standpipe, which provided water pressure for the city's rapidly growing population. However, its purpose expanded beyond that of a mere water storage facility. After the fire ravaged the city, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, the Water Tower stood tall amidst the ruins, serving as a beacon of hope for the residents of Chicago.

The tower's design is a blend of Gothic Revival and castellated architecture, featuring battlements, turrets, and ornate detailing. Its exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and decorative stone work, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. The Water Tower's slender profile and elegant proportions make it a true architectural gem.

Today, the Chicago Water Tower serves as a gallery space for the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower.
Noemi
The symbol for a city determined to rise from its own ashes. -Chicago
Ahmet Selcuk Can
It is a historic site, don’t miss it. I have not seen such a similar water treatment site in another city. It is located centrally
Su R c
Chicago water 🌊 tower is a historic Chicago Landmark.

WHY IS THIS ICONIC:
When the 1871 Chicago fire 🔥 burned the entire city to the grounds razing for 2.5 days , melting even iron rods, this Chicago water tower survived. Though it was damaged,it could be renovated easily.

WHY ONE MUST VISIT:
1) It is a landmark building
2) lt is surrounded by a pretty park where you can relax by a small fountain and may be have some snacks
3) It's very close to Magnificent mile. So, visit when you are around
4) It's a gorgeous 😍 limestone building
5) Delight for history and architecture lovers
Betsy MM
Easy historical site to visit as you explore the beautiful downtown city of Chicago. We had no idea the amazing architecture in this city and The Water Tower is worth meandering by. It is pretty awesome to see such a unique structure made of limestone so long ago that survived the fires.
Bernadette Markley
A Chicago historical landmark. A small sit down park in the heart of the city.. Beautifully kept year round..
小河马 little Hippo
The Old Chicago Water Tower, located just north of Michigan Avenue next to the John Hancock Center, was one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Today, the Chicago Water Tower has become a Chicago landmark. The Chicago Water Tower was built in 1869. The material used is large limestone. The entire water tower is quite in the style of 13th-century European Gothic architecture. It looks more like a miniature castle than a water tower. Designed by architect William W. Boyington, the water tower is about 47 meters high and the interior is about 42 meters high.
Bruce Johnson
A Historical Chicago land mark is beautiful to behold.

Sometimes street performers may play or sing for you.

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