Compton Hill Water Tower Park
An iconic red-brick water tower offering breathtaking panoramic city views, a historic landmark in a beautiful park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tower access for views
Compton Hill Water Tower Park
Best Time
Tower access for views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic red-brick water tower offering breathtaking panoramic city views, a historic landmark in a beautiful park.
"An icon of south city, the water tower never fails to awe with its soaring beauty."
Check Tower Access First
Tower is often closed for maintenance. Verify access days/times before you go!
Pack Out Your Trash
Keep this gem clean! Take all your garbage with you.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Compton Hill Water Tower
Centerpiece of the park
An iconic, soaring red-brick structure offering breathtaking views and a historical landmark.
Panoramic City Views
Top of the tower
Experience stunning 360-degree vistas of the surrounding city, perfect for photos.
The Naked Truth Sculpture
Near the pond
An intriguing artistic addition to the park, adding a layer of cultural interest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Hours
Photography & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tower Access First
Tower is often closed for maintenance. Verify access days/times before you go!
Pack Out Your Trash
Keep this gem clean! Take all your garbage with you.
Best for Photography
Stunning at dusk and night. Great for capturing cityscapes and the tower itself.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking around the park to get the best views and photos. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tower Access First
Tower is often closed for maintenance. Verify access days/times before you go!
Pack Out Your Trash
Keep this gem clean! Take all your garbage with you.
Best for Photography
Stunning at dusk and night. Great for capturing cityscapes and the tower itself.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking around the park to get the best views and photos. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the iconic Compton Hill Water Tower and the stunning panoramic views it offers, especially at dusk and night. The park is considered a beautiful and historic landmark, with the 'Naked Truth' sculpture adding an artistic touch. However, the limited and often unpredictable access to the tower itself is a frequent point of frustration.
"The Full Moon was beautiful at the tower tonight. We could see many planets on this fine evening. The tower is beautiful and very stunning to take pictures of at dusk and when it's dark."
Entered Letters
"An icon of south city, the water tower never fails awe with it's soaring beauty. It's the centerpiece of a wonderful park where you can walk, take pictures, and simply admire the pond and other features such as The Naked Truth sculpture. There are only a handful of these types of water towers left in the country, and St. Louis has three with the Grand Avenue and Bissell Street towers located in the north part of the city."
Charles Pinney
"The tower is only open the first Saturday 12-4 and on a full moon at 530p. Is a beautiful space"
B Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by car, with parking available. Some visitors suggest entering between specific streets for the best approach, though walking the final climb is recommended for the full experience.
Information on public transport routes is limited, but driving is a common method. Check local transit schedules for options.
There is a parking lot near the water tower, which is a convenient starting point for exploring the park and accessing the tower.
While generally considered a nice park, like any urban area, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially during off-peak hours.
Yes, there's a walk or climb from the parking lot to the tower, which many visitors find enjoyable and part of the experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park itself is generally free to enter. However, access to the tower itself is restricted and typically only available on specific days.
The tower is usually open to visitors on the first Saturday of each month from 12 PM to 4 PM, and also during full moons starting at 5:30 PM. Always verify current hours and potential closures.
No, the tower has been subject to maintenance issues and closures, so it's crucial to check its status before visiting.
Entry to the park is free. Specific fees for tower access, if any, are not widely advertised, suggesting it's typically included with park access on open days.
Check local community forums or park advisories, as access can change due to maintenance or special events.
📸 📸 Photography
Dusk and nighttime are highly recommended for stunning photos, offering beautiful lighting and city views. +1
You can capture panoramic city views, the historic water tower itself, and the 'Naked Truth' sculpture.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone.
Yes, the tower is visible from various points, and some creators have noted seeing it from over a mile away.
Its unique architecture and elevated position provide excellent vantage points for both the tower and the surrounding landscape.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Visitors can walk around the park, admire the historic water tower, enjoy panoramic city views, and see the 'Naked Truth' sculpture.
Yes, it's described as a really nice park, perfect for a walk and enjoying the scenery.
Information on restroom availability is not consistently mentioned, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.
It's one of the few remaining historic water towers in the country, representing a significant piece of local history.
While not explicitly stated, parks often accommodate picnics. Remember to follow park rules and clean up afterward.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open space and the novelty of a historic tower can be engaging for children. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for a bit of walking. Emphasize the importance of respecting the park and packing out all trash to teach kids about conservation.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the city views and a prime lens for details of the tower's architecture. The 'Naked Truth' sculpture also offers a unique artistic element to incorporate into your shots. Remember to check the weather and time your visit for the golden hour or twilight for dramatic effects.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Urban Explorers
Beyond the tower, the park itself has a story, and the 'Naked Truth' sculpture adds a layer of artistic exploration. It's a place to wander, observe, and learn about the evolution of St. Louis.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1This tower is one of a dwindling number of its kind across the country, making it a valuable historical asset. Its operational life as a water provider concluded in 1923, but its legacy continues as a beloved public space and a point of local pride.
+1For history buffs, understanding its past adds another layer of appreciation to the visit. It’s a reminder of how cities have evolved and the infrastructure that supported their growth.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
The real magic, however, lies in the panoramic views from the top. Visitors can capture sweeping vistas of the St. Louis skyline, offering a unique perspective of the city. The 'Naked Truth' sculpture also provides an interesting artistic element for your photos.
Remember to be mindful of the limited access times for the tower itself if you're aiming for those iconic shots from its summit. Even from the park grounds, the tower offers a dramatic backdrop for any photograph.
Navigating Access and Amenities
While the park itself is a pleasant place to explore, with walking paths and the 'Naked Truth' sculpture, the main draw for many is the tower. It's important to note that the tower has experienced periods of closure due to maintenance, so always confirm its operational status before your trip.
Amenities like restrooms are not always clearly advertised, so it's wise to come prepared. The emphasis from visitors is on enjoying the views and the historical significance, so a little planning goes a long way for a rewarding visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit