Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Chicago Water Tower

    4.1 (91 reviews)
    Open 10:00 am - 6:30 pm

    Chicago Water Tower Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Chicago Water Tower

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Jeremy J.

    The Chicago water tower is a cool thing to see while visiting. It has much history and is located is a popular part of town. We got some nice photos while visiting and learning about the history of it. Definitely check it out

    The Tower is insignificant from just a few blocks away, overwhelmed by the bigger and better buildings surrounding it
    Mark D.

    It's so towering and watery, so this place checks out. I'm going out on a limb and taking a very pro-water stance on this review. Disclaimer: I like water and I'm addicted to it, drinking it many times per day. I may or may not also use it to wash dishes and to take showers once a month. I mean, day. On the other hand, fire and smoke make my eyes water and you can't drink it. Boo! Bad fire, bad dog! So when I read about the so-called Great Fire, I get so mad, but then Ms. Water Tower enters the scene, surviving the fire like a champ with its stone facades and I'm like, "wow, that's so cool, I should take some pictures of it, because no one has ever done that before!" It looks nice, day or night. It IS nice, day or night. There's a gallery inside that I have yet to check out. One of these years, I will. That's about it for now. Thanks water! You're the best!

    Chicago Water Tower 9/2017
    Vivian C.

    The Chicago Water Tower is an outstanding structure from another time period located along the Magnificent Mile - it is sure to catch your attention. Behind it is a park where folk were relaxing or catching carriage rides drawn by horses and kids selling candy. Entrance to the small single story art gallery from the side facing the park was free. And the air was cool within.

    Tim S.

    It is one of those historic places in the city you should stop by and take a look. As one of the few remaining structures after the Chicago Fire it has it's place. I have popped in a few times, yes you can go in the building, to see the various small art exhibits they put up. Last time I stopped in they had photographs of various same locations separated by decades, neat to see the way the City has evolved yet stayed the same. My only complaint is the last time I was in there the security guard was loudly chatting away on a personal conversation... boo to you.

    Candace L.

    I can't even explain how excited I was when we hopped off the red line near Mag Mile and I spotted the Water Tower - this is a must see if you are in the area, super close to everything you will already probably be doing anyways so you might as well pass by to snap a photo and experience this site in person. Gorgeous building and might I add very close to Top Shop ;) Can't miss adding this one to your agenda.

    Cards Against Humanity exhibit
    Kathy V.

    Stopped in at the Historic Water Tower/City Gallery while walking along the Magnificent Mile. We saw people going inside and thought it was a nice opportunity to check it out. We were pleasantly and hilariously surprised to find a Cards Against Humanity "exhibit" on display. Very small, but a nice and interesting spot to have a "gallery". Worth checking out!

    Arlene M.

    I would often pass this small but beautiful piece of architecture as I traveled up the Magnificent Mile. I knew that it was perhaps one of the only buildings to survive the Great fire in the 1800s. My husband and I tried to visit it one morning. When we entered there was a lady at a desk telling us they weren't open yet. I asked when it would be open and she said she didn't know. Since it was closed I could only grab a picture of what I saw in front of me. It seems to be an art museum. We did learn about the pumping station across the street and went over to have a look at that. I learned there was a tunnel connecting the two buildings. We returned to this area late in the day but didn't bother to try to go in since we figured it must have closed for the day. It makes a great photo shot at different times of the day with the way the light casts on it. It seemed dwarfed between all the skyscrapers surrounding it but still is a lovely building to look at. Perhaps on some future visit I can attempt to go inside again.

    Christine W.

    I stumbled across the water tower while wandering around town. At first, I walked up to it just wanting to read a sign about the tower and then realized it was a reeeaaally tiny tiny museum (well, gallery is more like it) free and open to the public. I love cool random stuff, so of course I went in. It took me about 10-15 minutes to look at the photos and explanations. I think it's great that it's free. Otherwise I wouldn't pay for it (unless you could go up inside of it).

    Such a beautiful piece of history.
    Anthony M.

    REVIEW #900 & STILL STANDING Chicago is known as the second city & it has nothing to do with NY. After Chicago burned to the ground in 1871, the great citizens of Chicago had a second chance to rebuild the city & this is where the name second city came from. Technically the Chicago Water Tower was part of the First City. It was built in 1869 & still stands today. It is a tribute to those who help shape and build this city over the years. The tower still stands tall today. To me, it's a memorial for our great city. In the midst of a great tragedy, our water tower braved the flames and stood tall. It gave everyone hope that we could rebuild and rise from the ashes. It also told our politicians that they should pass a law stating all structures must be brick & mortar instead of wood. As we all learned that wood buildings will burn really fast with the wind blowing. Oops! The Water Tower was not the only building to survive the great fire. There were a few other buildings including the pumping station directly across the street. And yes the pumping station is made of brick too. Today the water tower stands 154 feet tall on Michigan Avenue in the Gold Coast. It is in the middle of one of the greatest shopping streets in the world called the Magnificent Mile. Tourists are always snapping photos of this historical landmark, in fact it looks like a giant castle. I told my little one that it was Rapunzels Tower. She still calls it that today. I think it's cute. Many cities wreck there old buildings to make way for new taller structures. The Water Tower deserves to stand forever because the flames of one of the greatest fires in the world could not destroy it. This makes the water tower special & a statement for our city. Next time you are in Chicago make sure you check out this amazing historical structure. It's worth a photo or two. There is also an art museum inside but I've never gone in to check it out. Maybe one of these days I will. I also love to throw out a little movie trivia on my tour but today it's going to have to be TV trivia. In 2004, the water tower was featured in the finale of The Amazing Race 6. How cool is that? I love that show and just knowing that Phil (the host) was nearby makes me happy. I will say that I am proud to share my 900th Yelp review with the Chicago Water Tower. Great things go together and here's to another 900 for me. As long as the tower keeps standing and my thumbs keep working then I'll keep pounding out reviews on my iPhone. The water tower is standing strong and showing the world that Chicago may be the second city but its really number one if you've ever been here. It is places like the Water Tower that highlight our architecture & willingness to stand in the face of adversity and to keep standing even when the odds are against you. I'm proud to see the water tower & show my out of town friends this great structure when they visit. I could not imagine a more amazing building in the city. It has a great story by surviving the Great Chicago Fire. It stands as an icon on Michigan Ave. This is the place where you can start your day shopping. So stop for a moment to take in the tower & think about those that lost there lives during this terrible tragedy. They would be proud to know the tower still stands, people are still shopping & I'm still writing reviews.

    PatrickJ T.

    The Chicago Water Tower is a landmark on the Magnificent Mile. It certainly stands out amongst all the modern buildings. When I first spotted it, I had no idea what it was. Looked like a medieval castle from Europe and not a water tower. As other Yelpers mentioned, the Chicago Water Tower and the Pumping Station building close by were the only two buildings in Downtown Chicago that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1781. Very impressive and historical!! Overall, a fine iconic landmark in downtown Chicago.

    Julie K.

    my first time seeing uncle.. he'd driven through the whole Chicago downtown for us.. and led to this Gothic style Water Tower.. He told us it's the only one that survived the Chicago Great Fire in 1871 and one of Chicago main symbol now.. it's respectably beautiful and strong.. and the visitor information center was helpful for tourists..

    Chicago Water Tower

    See all

    Photo of Andrea U.
    5000
    3436
    27759

    8 months ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 1
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Steve A.
    4750
    5539
    8461

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jeremy J.
    1819
    6429
    74964

    5 years ago

    Helpful 14
    Thanks 0
    Love this 12
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Curt C.
    2559
    4229
    1494

    5 years ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kathy V.
    584
    2304
    10896

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Carm A.
    30
    815
    5232

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Anthony M.
    3736
    1518
    12631

    13 years ago

    Helpful 31
    Thanks 0
    Love this 23
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Daniel S.
    1438
    1684
    13743

    12 years ago

    Helpful 12
    Thanks 0
    Love this 10
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Vineet S.
    2077
    1174
    2567

    14 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Bill M.
    2281
    1964
    4420

    21 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    18 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mar L.
    29
    303
    640

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    17 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of David N.
    4671
    4492
    3242

    15 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of L F.
    0
    437
    1583

    7 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Bob R.
    317
    1168
    2535

    13 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    20 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    19 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Andy K.
    370
    1064
    199

    18 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of An P.
    1264
    790
    7228

    16 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    20 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Andy B.
    371
    482
    4522

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 3

    Chicago Water Tower Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Chicago Water Tower

    Review Highlights - Chicago Water Tower

    When I heard this was the only building in the area that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 in this area...

    Mentioned in 28 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Art Galleries 2,036 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Skydeck Chicago - NEVER FORGET (look closely)

    Skydeck Chicago

    (939 reviews)

    The Loop

    Visiting Skydeck Chicago was easily one of the highlights on my weekend. I've seen plenty of city…read moreviews before, but nothing quite compares to standing that high up and seeing all of Chicago stretched out in every direction. There's a bit of a wait depending on when you go, but it moves steadily and there's enough to look at along the way that it doesn't feel like you're just standing around. The top, though, it's completely worth it. The best part, of course, is stepping onto The Ledge. Standing on a glass box looking straight down at the city is surreal, and definitely something you don't forget. It's one of those moments where you just have to pause and take it all in. If you're visiting Chicago, I'd say this is a must-do at least once. It's touristy, sure, but for good reason. The views, the experience, and that little rush of adrenaline make it totally worth it.

    Let me start by saying the main purpose of this visit was to step outside of my comfort…read morezone--because I am terrified of heights. The staff at Skydeck Chicago were all very sweet and friendly throughout the experience. As you make your way up, you walk through a series of exhibits and fun facts about Chicago, which was a nice touch and made the wait feel more engaging. It really highlights what makes the city special. Once we reached the top, I quickly realized I had underestimated just how high the building actually is. When it was time to step out onto the ledge... I completely punked out! They tell you not to look down, but of course, your natural reaction is to do exactly that. There's a photographer ready to capture the moment when you step all the way out onto the glass, but truthfully, I couldn't make it all the way out. I gave it about 2.5 seconds of bravery before my fear kicked in! Even with my moment of panic, I'm still really glad I went. It was definitely an unforgettable experience and a fun way to challenge myself.

    Chicago Riverwalk - PS. Chicago I love you.

    Chicago Riverwalk

    (258 reviews)

    The Loop

    One might expect me to be all doom and gloom about the sheer number of restaurants and bars along…read morethe river. Surprisingly, I won't be that guy, at least not this time. The main thing I really love about the Riverwalk is that it's a place in Chicago where someone can simply exist and vibe without the necessity of spending money. There is more than enough space to walk along the riverfront, take a seat, and enjoy the atmosphere. In terms of safety, there are more than enough "eyes on the street" as well as a visible police/private security presence. As with any high-traffic spot, use common sense, but other than a possible pickpocket, I don't foresee any issues. In terms of cleanliness, it is well-maintained, and I've not encountered any noticeable dirt, grime, or trash. I also really appreciate that the Riverwalk has both public bathrooms and is accessible! Accessibility needs no further explanation, and being able to wash up without buying an overpriced drink is worth its weight in gold. Another Yelper has compared it to the San Antonio River Walk and called out Chicago for having a shorter, less green "rip-off" of what one would find in Texas. However, I believe one should cast this comparison aside and judge the Chicago Riverwalk on its own merits. With that said... The final verdict: The Chicago Riverwalk is not your traditional, greenery-filled park. It is, however, a fantastic public space to take a stroll, have a bite, or just relax. Better still, while there is no shortage of tourists, it is an excellent destination for locals and visitors alike.

    Chicago Riverwalk is this great pathway that takes you, as the name implies, right along the river…read more Basically to get there, it branches just off of the lake shore, just by a little bit, then you walked down and around, and you are there. From Navy Pier you will find signs to guide you to the actual pathway. Simple as that. Along the Riverwalk you will find a bunch of restaurants, a couple of places to have drinks; i.e.: cocktails, and/or coffee oriented drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, plus, I'm sure, they also have soft drinks and things like that. Mostly, you will find great and unique views of the city. In terms of the actual functionality of the Riverwalk, it's a great place to get your steps in, as it travels along the river for quite a ways. Once you reach the end, there you can turn around and walk back the other way. Especially if you're in the area, and you want to get some exercise in, it's a great place to do just that. The Riverwalk is lined with stairwells. Plus, a number of embedded, cement seats. Thus, if you want to take a break and just sit back and enjoy the day, you can do that along the Riverwalk, as well. Overall, it's one of those main examples of Chicago life. Chicago Riverwalk is a great place to find a place to eat and/or a great place to take a walk.

    Willis Tower - Entrance

    Willis Tower

    (1.5k reviews)

    The Loop

    Spontaneous visit to Sears Tower on a Saturday afternoon! I haven't been here since I was a little…read morekid, and that was before they added The Ledge and before it was renamed to Willis Tower, so I've been wanting to come back to experience it again. Surprisingly on a Saturday around 1:30pm, it wasn't crowded at all and there was 0 wait times for anything. I loved the museum you walk through before getting to the elevator that takes you up. The part featuring Chicago foods and the mirrored deep dish pizza was especially cool. When we got up to the top, we enjoyed the amazing views and then headed over to The Ledge. There are two lines, but it did not take long at all because they only allow people 90 seconds to take photos and there are multiple ledges. There's also a bunch of restaurants located here, so you could truly just make a day out of it. They also have other exhibits sometimes, and I think this time around it was the Color Museum. Love that they also added a Van Leeuwen ice cream shop recently!

    They have military discounts! But you can't take advantage of the discount unless you purchase…read moretickets onsite. We were not prepared for the crowd on a weekday. Pro tip, you can line up for entry 15 minutes before your entry time. But at about 17 minutes before entry everyone rushes to the line, lol. The line moves fast, so no biggie. Once you enter, you go through security (another line) then they do photos (another line) then you walk through several very interesting exhibits, with multiple photo opportunities (more lines) but my hubby was focused on getting to the top, so we skipped the photo ops. Next you get in line for the elevator. After shooting up so fast your ears pop, you are treated to a wonderful view that pictures just don't capture. If you choose to go out on "The Ledge" its another line. They also take your picture. I can attest that you can accomplish the photo without ever looking down. Yes it's a lot of standing in line, but how often are you up where planes are flying by at eye level? And boy is the city breath taking from this vantage point.

    Buckingham Fountain - Married with children fountain

    Buckingham Fountain

    (413 reviews)

    South Loop, The Loop

    If you are vising Chicago, this is one of the not to be missed iconic landmarks. The Buckingham…read moreFountain is managed by the Chicago Park District is one of largest fountains in the world. It features impressive water displays and stunning architecture in the beautiful setting of Grant Park. The Buckingham Fountain was built at a cost of $750,00 and it was dedicated on August 12, 1927. Philanthropist Kate Buckingham donated the funds for the fountain as a tribute to her brother, Clarence who was an art collector of Japanese prints. Kate collected medieval sculpture, tapestries, and decorative arts. In addition to the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain she also donated a statue honoring Alexander Hamilton in Lincoln Park and her family's art collection to the Art Institute of Chicago. Clarence Buckingham had been a governing member and a trustee of the Art Institute and Kate was influenced by his association with the institution. The Buckingham Fountain was designed by architect Edward H. Bennett in a classic Art Deco style out of pink marble. The sculptural elements were created by French artist Marcel Loyau. The fountain resembles a rococo style wedding cake and was inspired by the Bassin de Latone and modeled on the Latona Fountain at the Palace of Versailles in France. The fountain symbolizes the vastness of Lake Michigan, with four groups of bronze seahorses representing the four states bordering the lake: Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. The fountain is able to propel 14,000 gallons of water per minute. At night the fountain comes alive with lights and dancing water jets. The fountain is known for being featured in the opening of the television show, Married with Children. The Buckingham Fountain stands as a symbol of Kate Buckingham's philanthropic generosity and her love for her brother and the City of Chicago. Enjoy a picnic one one of the well maintained lawns and seating areas near the fountain where you are to create a lasting memory in the heart of Chicago. I will always treasure my visit.

    Buckingham Fountain is absolutely stunning and a must-see in Chicago. The size, but unfortunately…read moreit was closed and empty for cleaning. Nonetheless the skyline backdrop make it the perfect photo spot. Whether you visit during the day or catch it lit up at night, it's a beautiful and iconic experience.

    Chicago Water Tower - galleries - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...