CHICAGO SKYLINE & LAKE VIEWS: FROM THE TOP OF CHICAGO 360 & SKYDECK

Chicago is a vibrant city. The spirit of Chicago shines through so many things but the grand architecture is the heart of the city of Chicago. The Chicago skyline is admired by millions of tourists and other people who visit the city every year. Similarly, Lake Michigan views bring life to the grand city of Chicago. Both the Chicago skyline and lake views are perfectly presented from the Chicago 360 and Chicago Skydeck. 

CHICAGO 360 AT SUNSET & AT NIGHT 

Chicago 360 observation deck, a highly popular Chicago tourist destination, can be found on the 94th level of the John Hancock Center, located at 875 North Michigan Avenue. This observation deck provides outstanding panoramic views through its all-glass windows, showcasing Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile. Visitors can also observe the landscapes of four adjacent states from this vantage point. The evening sunsets offer spectacular scenery, and the Chicago skyline is equally impressive during the day.

The attraction is open every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday, between 9 am and 11 pm. It is advisable to arrive early on weekends and holidays due to high visitor numbers. On typical days, the times with the fewest people are either right at the opening or just before closing. 

The building boasts rapid elevators that ascend 96 floors with a maximum speed of 1,800 feet per minute (20.5 miles per hour). Before going up, visitors should explore the ground floor, which features exhibits about Chicago’s cultures, history, and local businesses, and also includes a brief documentary about three nearby cities.

At Chicago 360, the ‘Tilt’ is a noteworthy experience. This exciting ride offers a unique downward perspective from a height of 1030 feet. For safety, the Tilt can accommodate only 8 individuals at once. For those interested in photography, it’s recommended to bring a companion as the large number of visitors makes using a tripod difficult, and the best viewing spots are crowded, requiring someone to quickly take photos.

THE VIEWS AT CHICAGO SKYDECK 

The highest observation deck in the United States is the Skydeck Chicago, situated on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower. With 110 floors and a height of 1,450 feet, the Willis Tower is among the world’s tallest structures. Chicago Skydeck welcomes visitors daily, throughout the year, though its opening hours may vary depending on the season. The observation deck is consistently open each day. Its address is 233 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago. Entry requires online reservations as walk-up admission is not permitted. Inside the Willis Tower, visitors will find restrooms, shops, and dining options.

The experience at Chicago Skydeck begins on the lower level of Willis Tower, where a museum is located, offering insights into Chicago’s history and traditions. The journey to the 103rd floor involves a multimedia elevator that displays videos previewing the views from the top. 

From Chicago Skydeck, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view encompassing the city, Lake Michigan, and the four surrounding states. Additionally, it provides excellent views of Chicago’s landmarks, such as Navy Pier and Soldier Field. 

A distinctive feature of Chicago Skydeck is the Ledge, a glass-floored balcony that extends four feet from the building’s edge, providing a view directly down to the city below. Families with children will appreciate the kids’ club at the Skydeck, which offers interactive games, puzzles, and scavenger hunts. The Willis Tower also houses coffee shops and restaurants, as well as a gift shop.