Water Tower

In 1871, when Mrs. O'Leary's cow kicked over the lantern in her barn — or was framed for the act, depending on who you ask — the Gothic Revival spires of Water Tower were only two years old. Today, along with the Pumping Station on the other side of the street, the Water Tower is the last, dream-like symbol of the Old Chicago that disappeared in the Fire. Surrounded by hotels and colossal department stores, it's also the icon of the new city that arose. At night, the Water Tower is lit from within, and it's a memorable sight. Inside, the vintage machinery is long gone (along with the water), and the plain interior is occasionally used as a gallery space.

• history
• museum

Address

Chicago Ave & Michigan Ave

Getting there

Chicago Red Line

Hours

Open now · closes 7 pm

Weekly hours

Mon	10 am–7 pm
Tue	10 am–7 pm
Wed	10 am–7 pm
Thu	10 am–7 pm
Fri	10 am–7 pm
Sat	10 am–5 pm
Sun	10 am–5 pm

Phone

+13127443315

Website

en.wikipedia.org (opens in a new tab)