360 Chicago View
Tips and adviceFamily friendlyHistory, art and culture
Nicole Muto

360 CHICAGO vs SkyDeck Chicago: Comparing the Differences Between the Two Observation Decks

As a hub of architectural style and advancement, there is quite a bit to marvel at from above in Chicago. From panoramic views of unique skyscrapers to the Chicago River, SkyDeck Chicago and 360 CHICAGO both offer incredible views of the Windy City. So how do you decide which one to visit on your trip? We're breaking down the differences between the two popular observation decks so you can choose between them - or visit both!

SkyDeck Chicago

Image of Female, Girl, Person, Teen, City,
  • Entrance to the observation deck
  • Unbeatable views of the city and beyond - see parts of 4 different states (Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana & Michigan), Soldier Field, Chicago River and more
  • A chance to step out onto The Ledge - an all-glass balcony that extends from the side of the building
  • Access to Reaching for the Sky, all interactive exhibits and displays

360 CHICAGO

  • Entrance to the observation deck
  • Panoramic views of the city - see Navy Pier, Lake Michigan, Magnificent Mile and more
  • Discounted admission to TILT - experience Chicago in a whole new dimension as you're tilted forward away from the building and over the Magnificent Mile.
  • Access to all interactive exhibits and displays

Location

Sometimes when choosing between SkyDeck Chicago and 360 CHICAGO, it simply comes down to the logistics of getting there or what fits your sightseeing schedule. Lucky for you, both of these decks are located in prime locations full of other great Chicago attractions and sights.

SkyDeck Chicago

SkyDeck Chicago is located just blocks from Millenium Park and the Museum Campus and is very easy to get to by car or public transportation.

Image of

Millenium Park is home to the famous Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean") sculpture and you can't take a trip to Chicago without snagging a picture in front of it.

Aside from housing one of the most famous works of art in the city, the park is also a fantastic and lively greenspace with plenty of other installations and things to see.

Journey a bit further down into the park and you'll find the best museums in the city. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago, The Field Museum, The Shedd Aquarium and more.

360 CHICAGO

360 CHICAGO is located between Oak Street Beach and the famous Navy Pier. Also easily accessible by car or public transportation, you'll find plenty to do in the area after your trip to the top of Chicago.

Image of City, Person, Fun, Amusement Park, Ferris Wheel,

Navy Pier is another famous Chicago landmark. Stretching far out into Lake Michigan, the pier is full of shops, restaurants and attractions. Ride the Centennial Wheel or pop into a store while enjoying beautiful views of the water.

The Museum of Contemporary Art and The Chicago Children's Museum are also located close by. Whether you're traveling with family or you're a major art-lover - or both - checking out these two institutions is a must.

Comparing the Views

360 CHICAGO

Image of Photography, City, Urban, Adult, Male, Man, Person, Building, High Rise, Cityscape, Camera, Hat,

Here you'll find unparalleled views of the city and Lake Michigan. From the 94th floor, you can take in the sheer beauty of the coastline, Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier and beyond. Make sure to have your camera at the ready - from 1,000 feet up you can just see just about everything in the Windy City.

SkyDeck Chicago

Image of City, Building, Cityscape, Urban, Outdoors,

From 1,353ft up there's very little you won't see up at SkyDeck Chicago. The 103rd floor provides panoramic views through all-glass windows and The Ledge, a glass balcony that extends from the side of the building. Take in the architectural style of the skyscrapers, look for Navy Pier and other landmarks and see if you can spot the four different state lines visible from the top!

Upgrades & Other Experiences

In addition to observation decks and interactive displays, one of these observation decks offers even more to do.

SkyDeck Chicago

Image of Outdoors, Shelter, People, Person, City, Adult, Female, Woman, Child, Girl, Male, Man, Urban, Shorts,

Your SkyDeck Chicago tickets already include all that there is to see at this observation deck! Enjoy taking a step onto The Ledge, learn more with the interactive exhibits and see the entire city atop the all-glass floor. Before visiting, check their website to see if any special events are happening when you're there.

360 CHICAGO

While your 360 CHICAGO tickets already include admission to the observation deck and all interactive exhibits, there's even more to see here.

Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Female, Woman, Shoe, Glove, Hat,

TILT is 360 CHICAGO's moving all-glass balcony. It is the first of its kind and extends from the building, offering never before seen views. The balcony can hold up to 8 visitors at a time and moves around to give you different vantage points.

Save On Admission

We can make it even simpler for you - don't even choose! With Go City you can visit both observation decks and more top Chicago attractions. Use your pass to visit both and compare the two for yourself. You'll enjoy totally unique experiences at SkyDeck Chicago and 360 CHICAGO.

Love this article? Why not share it:

Buy with confidence

Free cancellation

Plans can change, we get it. All non-activated passes are eligible for a refund within 90 days from your purchase date.

Find out more

Help

Confused? We're here to help!

See our FAQs

We're kind of popular, but don't just take our word for it.

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

  • Thick check Icon