Its combination of gracious Neoclassical architecture on the outside and then-revolutionary technology within once drew visitors from around the world—including Charles Dickens, who praised its “pleasant design.” Today, the Water Works provides rich contemporary luxury in its lavish interior spaces in one of the city’s most picturesque setting, with columned walkways, a vintage gazebo, the Art Museum perched dramatically above and Boathouse Row stretched out along the Schuylkill River just beyond.