Name: Chicago Water Tower
Address: 806 Michigan Ave, Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

Chicago Water Tower

Description

The Chicago Water Tower, located on North Michigan Avenue, is a historic landmark in Chicago. It was one of the few structures to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Over the years, rumors have circulated about supernatural occurrences in and around the Water Tower, including reports of ghostly apparitions and strange happenings.

While some people claim to have had eerie experiences near the Water Tower, there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of ghosts or hauntings. The stories surrounding the Water Tower’s alleged haunting are more likely a result of local legends, imaginative storytelling, and the historical significance of the building.

Chicago Avenue Pumping Station 2006 768x513

Google Rating

Chicago Water Tower

4.7

Based on 95 reviews

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H Ho

21:10 04 Nov 24

Cannot get inside so just took pictures outside

Scott Chris (Scott)

03:35 02 Nov 24

The Chicago Water Tower is a must-see landmark that truly captures the city’s history and resilience. Its Gothic architecture stands out among the modern skyscrapers, making it a beautiful spot for photos. The Water Tower is one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which makes visiting feel like stepping into a piece of history. Inside, there’s often a small gallery or exhibition to enjoy, which is a nice touch. It’s a quick stop but well worth it, especially if you love architecture and learning about Chicago’s past.

Dana Key

21:40 26 Oct 24

🌼🦋🌿

Guillermo del Cerro Lawlor

02:30 23 Oct 24

Very nice structure.

Jessie J.

23:32 17 Oct 24

Hans Peter Gluding

20:00 03 Oct 24

Right next to an old historic water tower, the tower is ideal for shopping, with numerous shops. We were there on a rainy day. There is also a restaurant available.

Remi A

11:40 30 Sep 24

Seppy Iosif

13:11 23 Sep 24

Beautiful architecture

Houri Zarrin

03:27 07 Sep 24

Gerardo Octavio Lopez Martinez

02:24 19 Aug 24

Yiwen Wu

21:50 14 Aug 24

CHARLES T. WOODHOUSE SR.

20:17 10 Aug 24

Craig Keller

11:39 30 Jul 24

Beautiful

15:51 20 Jun 24

07:36 14 Jun 24

14:37 12 Jun 24

16:31 09 Jun 24

00:53 05 Jun 24

It’s an iconic symbol representing the city’s post-Great Chicago Fire resilience. It is one of the oldest buildings in the history of the town. In fact, it has witnessed its share of disasters over the years.As the myth has it- the Water Tower wasn't the only structure left standing after the city was ravaged by the Great Fire of 1871 - it is one of Six Structures That Survived the Great Chicago Fire—built-in 1869. As of today, it still stands as the second oldest water tower in America.The tower contained a pipe that stood roughly around 140 feet high. The intent was to pump water from Lake Michigan so it could be used for multiple purposes. One such use was for the Chicago Fire Department. It intended to pump clean water via the water cribs from the lake. despite the intent to provide the fire department with enough water to put out a fire, it wasn’t enough to contain the Great Fire of Chicago in 1871.However, there had been stories of the spirits that have haunted the water tower for many years, but that's the case with every old building, isn't it?

Michael Behrens

13:00 17 May 24

Juan Arroyo

03:07 17 May 24

Fresh Products

17:23 08 May 24

My fiance and I went on 5/2/24 and had an amazing time at the water tower! The mall itself was empty that day and all the stores and every staff member were friendly and helpful in every store! Will be coming back again for the Lego store!

miko yeung

04:29 18 Apr 24

Gorgeous!

Fady Saber

15:53 03 Mar 24

ELÈN KORЯKINA

13:37 03 Feb 24

Local architecture buffs will always tell you that it was the demolition of the old Chicago Stock Exchange in the 1970s that galvanized the city's preservation movement. But those who carefully preserve the memory of the creators and past of their city will correct it, recalling that in fact it was this historical building that awakened the spirit of conservationists half a century ago.In 1913 the city began modest restorations, and,to clean up the abandoned water tower, city authorities proposed moving it,to make room for the “project”,connecting Michigan Avenue to Lake Shore Drive.That's when the Chicago Historical Society andother conservationists joined forces. And they not only convinced the city to complete rebuilding the water tower, but also got city officials to promise to keep the building open and even reroute Michigan Avenue around it.That's why Michigan Avenue bendseast at Chicago Avenue.Built 1866-1869 by the romantic architect William W. Boyington:And although all the "historical" literature on the water tower indicated its height was 154 feet, in 1994 the National Park Service measured the tower and found that its height to the top of the spire was 182 feet and six inches:« Boyington was influenced by the European architectural writers of the 19th century, and by their depiction of the castellated Gothic style. Illustrated among their engravings was the famous Cloth Merchant’s Hall of Bruges, Belgium. Boyington’s water tower, seen in its theme and concept, bears a likeness to this renowned Gothic tower"The pumping station originally had four engines, one of which was considered the largest engine in the world at the time of construction.It moved 2,750 gallons of water in one stroke.Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, please appreciate those who live near you and keep the memories of the past alive for you!

Roberto R Aguilo

18:08 29 Jan 24

Wojciech Zawadzki

00:29 04 Jan 24

Looks astonishing!

고형석

13:15 01 Jan 24

It is one of the buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and is a symbol of Chicago Avenue.

Sharon Hemphill

03:37 12 Dec 23

Ciara

22:01 04 Dec 23

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.

Dileep

00:08 07 Nov 23

Good place to visit

Billythebest T

22:10 01 Nov 23

Adilson

18:28 14 Oct 23

Good place for visit

S A Chasen

18:52 21 Sep 23

Please stop and look at history!

01:33 05 Sep 23

11:56 03 Sep 23

06:19 04 Aug 23

14:23 24 Jul 23

The symbol for a city determined to rise from its own ashes. -Chicago

Nick Nocco

15:28 18 Jul 23

Didn't go inside but looks nice from the outside.

Ahmet Selcuk Can

00:46 09 Jul 23

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

21:49 04 Jul 23

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 building2) lt is surrounded by a pretty park where you can relax by a small fountain and may be have some snacks3) It's very close to Magnificent mile. So, visit when you are around4) It's a gorgeous 😍 limestone building5) Delight for history and architecture lovers

Betsy MM

13:27 01 Apr 23

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

01:07 02 Jan 23

A Chicago historical landmark. A small sit down park in the heart of the city.. Beautifully kept year round..

Bruce Johnson

22:09 06 Sep 22

A Historical Chicago land mark is beautiful to behold.Sometimes street performers may play or sing for you.

小河马 little Hippo

17:43 10 Aug 22

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.

Frecky Lewis

17:24 29 Jun 21

Seems odd to "review" a historic landmark like this, but it is a truly iconic fixture in Chicago. It is usually a very busy spot, too, with shoppers, tourists, and commuters filing past in large numbers. But if you can spare a few minutes, take time to look at the structure and appreciate how cool it is and how calmly and proudly it stands in the midst of its busy surroundings.

Chicago Water Tower

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