Water Tower Place

The basics

Unveiled in 1975, Water Tower Place is one of Chicago’s tallest skyscrapers, and its attached mall is a major downtown shopping destination. Home to upwards of 70 shops (including American Girl, Sephora, and Eileen Fisher), the mall also houses a number of casual and sit-down dining options, a theater (Broadway in Chicago’s Broadway Playhouse), and the small Chicago Sports Museum, adjoining Harry Caray's 7th Inning Stretch eatery.

Given its location right on the Magnificent Mile, Water Tower Place can be glimpsed during hop-on, hop-off bus tours and neighborhood excursions. It’s also easy to stop by for an independent shopping trip.

Things to know before you go

• Shoppers aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult after 4pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

• Wheelchairs and strollers are available to rent by request.

• The Water Tower Place parking garage also includes electric vehicle charging stations.

• Free Wi-Fi is available on-site, though you may need to register your email address for access.

How to get there

To reach Water Tower Place by the El, take the Brown Line to Chicago station. Another option is to take the bus (number 3, 26, 66, 143, 146, 147, 148, or 151), or to drive, take a taxi, or bike there.

When to get there

The Water Tower Place Mall is open from late morning to evening Monday to Saturday, with shorter hours on Sundays. Note that its restaurants and theater may have different hours, so it’s worth checking in advance.

The Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place

The Broadway Playhouse has been a part of Water Tower Place in its current incarnation since 2010, and today it showcases a range of hugely popular musicals and shows. Recent highlights range from Hamilton and Cats to Les Misérables and, fittingly, Chicago.

Ways to explore

Architecture and urban planning aficionados looking to catch a glimpse of Water Tower Place might spend as little as 15–30 minutes taking a look around, while shopping enthusiasts could easily set aside several hours. Water Tower Place is included on many history and architecture-focused walking tours of the Magnificent Mile, and is a stop on hop-on hop-off bus routes. Alternatively, you can nab tickets to a show at the mall if you’d like; it’s home to a movie theater and the Broadway Playhouse, a top-notch venue for plays and hit musicals like Rock of Ages.

Accessibility

All of Water Tower Place is fully wheelchair accessible

Age limits

None

What to pack

Credit card, tote bag to comfortably carry your purchases

What to wear

Anything goes, but comfortable shoes are recommended, as are clothes you can easily slip on and off in a try-on room

Not allowed

Smoking in public spaces (including vaping and e-cigarettes)

Amenities

Restaurants and food courts, complimentary Wi-Fi, concierge service, ATM

Address

Water Tower Place is located on North Michigan Avenue, just north of the historic Chicago Water Tower (where the tower takes its name). Its central location makes it easy to reach, no matter where you’re coming from.

Driving

There’s a parking garage in Water Tower Place, but traffic can be heavy in downtown Chicago and parking fees are often sky-high. Consider coming by taxi or rideshare instead of driving yourself.

Public transportation

The easiest route is the Red Line to Chicago Avenue Station, two blocks from Michigan Avenue. Plenty of CTA buses also stop in front of Water Tower Place, including numbers 3 (King Drive), 146 (Inner Drive/Michigan Express), and 151 (Sheridan).

Best times to visit

Retail shops are usually open from late morning or midday until evening, although times vary throughout the year. Come just after opening for the quietest experience.

Best days to visit

Weekends are busiest, so aim for a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.

Best months to visit

Chicago has the best weather during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, although Water Tower Place is climate-controlled, so you’ll stay warm and cozy even in the winter.

Special events

The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival kicks off near Water Tower Place each year before Thanksgiving. It features a parade, fireworks, and tree-lighting festival.