Ever wondered what the iconic Ypsilanti Water Tower looks like on the inside?
Join us as we share our first-person experience of what’s behind the stone walls!
Destination Ann Arbor Content Strategist and Ypsilanti community member, Maria, toured the famous landmark during a one-day-only opening during the Ypsilanti bicentennial.
While the tour is not open to the public, follow along for this exclusive as Maria highlights her journey and shares what’s inside.
Here is Maria’s take:
Touring Ypsi’s famous Water Tower has been on my list of Ypsilanti must-dos. While everyone can admire from afar, going inside is closed to the public. When I found out about a rare opportunity to tour, I had to experience this for myself!
Time Travelling
As soon as I stepped inside, it felt like I traveled back in time. I thought about those who built this landmark from the ground up and the intricate engineering needed in the late 1800s. After starting at its foundation, I began my steep trek up the tower stairs.
It’s the Climb
Motivated by my excitement, I raced up several flights of stairs, eventually reaching one of four larger-than-expected circular windows overlooking the Eastern Michigan University campus. What a view!
At the Top
As a group, we continued making our way up and finally we reached the top! I paused before stepping out onto the extremely narrow ledge probably 10 stories high. The ledge circles the tower's exterior and seemed to be pieced together from compiled wood, with only a chain-linked fence keeping us on the track.
Once In a Lifetime
After conquering my fear of heights, I quickly shifted my perspective and tried to remember every detail while taking in some of the most beautiful views of Ypsilanti. There is nothing quite like this moment!
Community Connection
Many of us appreciated this shared special experience. It’s moments like these that make me feel most connected with our community. What an awesome opportunity to experience Ypsilanti history in this unique way.
We'd like to thank Maria for sharing her experience with us! Want to learn more about Ypsi’s historic Water Tower? Start here:
Follow along for more adventures and find travel inspiration at Ypsireal.com.
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