The Clare At Water Tower

The Clare at Water Tower Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Chicago’s Gold Coast, The Clare at Water Tower is more than a high-rise senior living community—it’s a fusion of luxury, urban vibrancy, and architectural innovation. This comprehensive guide delivers everything you need to know about visiting The Clare: from its architectural and cultural significance to practical tips for tours, accessibility, and exploring nearby attractions. Whether you are a prospective resident, architecture enthusiast, or curious traveler, this article will help you experience The Clare and its dynamic urban context to the fullest. (The Clare Official Site; Wikipedia)

Introduction
History and Cultural Significance
Architectural Vision and Design
Lifestyle and Amenities
Visitor Information
- Tours, Visiting Hours, and Accessibility
- Tickets and Appointments
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Special Events and Photographic Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Call to Action
References

History and Cultural Significance

The Clare marks a paradigm shift in senior living, evolving from institutional care to a vibrant, lifestyle-driven community. Since its opening, The Clare has provided a full continuum of care—from independent and assisted living to memory care and skilled nursing—within a 53-story luxury high-rise. Its integration with Loyola University further enhances its role as a hub for intergenerational learning and urban engagement, setting a precedent for high-rise senior communities in major cities. (The Clare Official Site; PRDG Architecture)

Architectural Vision and Design

Design Philosophy

Designed by Ralph Johnson of Perkins+Will, The Clare’s architecture reflects a commitment to urban integration, wellness, and accessibility. The building’s slender verticality and curvilinear façade allow it to blend seamlessly with Chicago’s skyline, while providing panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city. The podium houses Loyola University classrooms, further enriching the building’s mixed-use character. (Skyscraper Center; PRDG Architecture)

Structural and Material Innovations

Constructed entirely of reinforced concrete for strength and sound insulation, The Clare utilizes advanced engineering solutions such as split-site excavation and a rapid pour cycle, streamlining the building process in a dense urban environment. Pre-assembled curtain wall panels expedited construction and minimized disruption. Completed in 2009, the $135-million project stands as one of the tallest senior living residences worldwide. (ENR; Wikipedia)

Vertical Community and Program Integration

The Clare’s programmatic complexity is a model of efficient vertical living:

Lower Floors: Loyola University’s 50,000 sq. ft. academic space
Residential Levels: 32 floors of independent living apartments
Supportive Care: 3 floors for assisted living, 2 for skilled nursing, 1 for memory care
Amenities: Spa, aquatic center, performance venue, art gallery, chapel, library, fitness center

Atriums and communal spaces foster a sense of connectivity and daylight throughout, encouraging interaction and well-being. (Levin Associates; PRDG Architecture)

Sustainability and Urban Context

Sustainable features include a 9th-floor roof garden, a green roof atop the tower, and a “healing garden” podium—all enhancing resident well-being and supporting environmental best practices. The Clare’s central location enables walkability and access to public transit, while its academic partnership with Loyola University fosters intergenerational engagement. (ENR; Skyscraper Center; The Tourist Checklist)

Lifestyle and Amenities

Residents of The Clare enjoy a blend of urban sophistication and community spirit. Highlights include:

Independent Living: Spacious, light-filled apartments with city or lake views (The Clare – Independent Living)
Dining: Multiple venues with chef-driven menus, accommodating special dietary needs
Health & Wellness: Modern fitness center, indoor pool, spa, on-site wellness clinic, proximity to major hospitals (Seniorly – The Clare; Family Assets – The Clare)
Community Engagement: Arts programs, lectures, music events, book clubs, and volunteer opportunities
Pet-Friendly: Outdoor spaces for residents and their pets (Family Assets – The Clare)
Concierge Services: 24/7 support, housekeeping, transportation, valet parking, and security

Visitor Information

Tours, Visiting Hours, and Accessibility

Tours: Prospective residents and their families can schedule complimentary guided tours by appointment, available Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Visiting Hours: Family and friends may visit residents daily from 10:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Accessibility: The Clare is fully ADA compliant, with ramps, elevators, accessible parking, and barrier-free access in all public areas.

Tickets and Appointments

Admission: No tickets or fees are required for tours or visits; however, advance appointments are highly recommended.
Booking: Schedule your tour via The Clare’s official website or by phone.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Located at 55 E Pearson St., The Clare is steps from Chicago’s most iconic landmarks:

Historic Water Tower: Survived the Great Chicago Fire; historic tours available
Magnificent Mile: Destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago: Modern art exhibitions and events
Lakefront Trail: Scenic walking and biking along Lake Michigan
Millennium Park, Navy Pier, 360 Chicago Observation Deck, Art Institute of Chicago: All within 1.5 miles

Getting There:

Public Transit: CTA Red Line (Chicago Avenue station), multiple bus routes
Parking: On-site valet and nearby garages
Neighborhood: Gold Coast offers excellent walkability and safety (Timeless Travel Steps – Chicago Safety Tips)

Special Events and Photographic Highlights

The Clare hosts a variety of community events—art exhibitions, wellness workshops, performances, and culinary tastings—many of which are open to visitors by arrangement. The rooftop terrace and upper-floor lounges offer some of the best cityscape photography opportunities in Chicago. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the building’s striking glass façade and panoramic views.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I schedule a tour?
A: Contact The Clare via their website or phone to book a tour.

Q: Are there admission fees or tickets?
A: No, tours and visits are complimentary.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Daily from 10:00 AM–8:00 PM for guests; tours by appointment, Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Q: Is The Clare accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, The Clare is fully ADA compliant.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, on-site valet and nearby parking garages are available.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Residents’ pets are welcome; visitor pets are not permitted.

Q: Which attractions are nearby?
A: Magnificent Mile, Water Tower Place, Museum of Contemporary Art, Lakefront Trail, and more.

Call to Action

Experience the future of senior living and urban design at The Clare at Water Tower. Whether you are considering residency, interested in architecture, or exploring Chicago’s historical sites, plan your visit by scheduling a guided tour and discover all that The Clare and its vibrant Gold Coast neighborhood have to offer.

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