Carriage on Michigan Avenue

The stretch of Michigan Avenue located between Chicago River North and Oak Street is known as the "Magnificent Mile." The "Mile" has always catered to Chicago's elite. In the 19th century, some of the wealthiest families, such as the Fields and the Pullmans, owned residences on Michigan Avenue. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed much of the area. The Water Tower, built in 1869 as part of the city's new water system, was left relatively unharmed, and quickly became a symbol of Chicago's resurgence. In the 1960s and 70s, top-name retailers moved onto Michigan Avenue and Walton Street, and named their shopping center Water Tower Place in honor of Chicago's great symbol, located just across the street.