The Universe of Water Museum was opened in 2003 in the city's first water tower which dates from the mid-19th century. Today they tower has been converted into an exhibition hall with displays on the history of the waterworks and canals of St Petersburg, after all water has played a big role in the formation of the city known as Venice of the North. 

In addition to this main exhibition there are also two multimedia exhibitions which can be visited as part of a tour. The Underground of St Petersburg exhibit recreates the water and sewage network under the city, while the Universe of Water exhibit has exhibits on water itself. Tours of these exhibits are run at set times on weekends only.

Just outside the museum is a statue of a water carrier, demonstrating how water was brought into the city in barrels before the construction of the waterworks.