Water towers may not seem like the most exciting things, but these iconic parts of America can stand out in a really big way. Many counties and towns come together to turn these functional fixtures into engaging works of art that bring smiles to kids’ faces. If you’re planning a road trip with your family, you may want to consider stopping by one of the most unique water towers in the United States.
Pumpkin Water Tower, Circleville, Ohio
If you’re looking for something not too far out of Pennsylvania, Circleville, Ohio, celebrates its agricultural history with a bright orange water tower that looks like a massive pumpkin. Autumn is a great time to visit the giant jack-o’-lantern for yourself and check out the town’s annual pumpkin festival. The tower’s bright orange color is visible from miles away, making it a fun thing to watch out for as you’re driving.
Leaning Tower of Niles, Illinois
If you’re headed through Niles, Illinois, you can spot this iconic homage to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. This half-scale version of the Italian landmark is nearly 100 years old and stands in a recreational park complex, making it a great spot to stop for a nice pizza lunch. The tower leans at the same angle as its Italian inspiration, creating an unexpected European atmosphere in suburban Chicago that surprises and delights visitors who stumble upon this architectural curiosity.
Dixie Cup Tower, Lexington, Kentucky
The Dixie factory in Lexington, Kentucky, no longer operates, but the town kept the iconic water tower that looks like a giant version of the iconic paper cups. The white tower with a distinctive tapered shape celebrates the town’s industrial history while serving as a functional piece of municipal infrastructure. This slice of Americana in a storage tank captures the look and feel of the beloved American brand.
Coffee Pot Tower, Stanton, Iowa
One of the most unique water towers in America is located in the small town of Stanton, Iowa. This town has a deep, rich Swedish heritage, so the tower looks like a traditional coffee pot, complete with a handle and spout. This charming structure reflects the community’s Scandinavian roots and the important role coffee plays in bringing people together. The tower’s warm, welcoming design perfectly captures the friendly spirit of small-town Iowa hospitality.
Dum-Dums Water Tower, Bryan, Ohio
If your kids like candy, you won’t want to miss out on the Dum-Dums water tower in Bryan, Ohio. A gorgeous mural featuring different flavors of Dum-Dums lollipops goes all the way around it, and the metal poles holding up the tower even resemble lollipop sticks. It’s a whimsical tower with a strong connection to the beloved candy treat.
These remarkable water towers prove that practical infrastructure can become sources of community pride. Each structure demonstrates how creativity and local identity can transform everyday necessities into landmarks that capture the American spirit of innovation and fun.
