Chicago 360 view

Tips for visiting 360 CHICAGO

Get a view of the Windy City from 100 storeys up
By Lindsay Eagan

Experience Chicago from a brand new angle on the Tilt platform, with views that stretch across Lake Michigan and beyond.

Planning a trip to Chicago? Then you've got to check out 360 CHICAGO during your visit. Just steps from the Magnificent Mile is this 94th-floor observatory, where you can view the city from a staggering 1,000ft above the ground. 

Formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory, the 360 offers unparalleled views of Lake Michigan, the Windy City and its suburbs. Thrillseekers will want to experience TILT, too. Step onto the ledge, hold onto the bars, and watch as the ledge tilts outwards from the side of the building. Dare you look down?

Check out our helpful guide for visiting the 360 CHICAGO, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, places to eat nearby, and much more.

Tips for visiting the John Hancock Tower

View from 360 Chicago, West side
  • Give yourself plenty of time to explore the cultural exhibits on the way to the elevators. There are a handful of connected rooms with videos and displays about Chicago and its neighborhoods that are well worth watching.
     
  • Go on a sunny and clear day for the best views. However, the view isn't too bad at sundown either - the city turns into a glittering jewel at night, and the flow of the cars along the expressways adds to the beauty.
     
  • Views from the building offer more detail than that of Willis Tower, making it an optimal location for taking pictures of iconic buildings and landmarks of Chicago. Navy Pier is best viewed from the east side while the Willis and Trump towers are seen from the west and south windows.
     
  • The Architect's Corner Cafe serves liquor and beer and has plenty of spots to sit down and enjoy the drink. Or, you can wander around the observatory with your drink in hand.
     
  • Make sure to pick up a brochure about the exhibit for information about 360 CHICAGO and all of the available activities.
     
  • Use your Go City Chicago pass to save on admission to 360 CHICAGO and more

Best times to visit 360 CHICAGO

View at night from 360 Chicago

360 CHICAGO is most popular during the daytime year-round. The crowds aren't as large during the weekday afternoons, and it's easier to navigate around the attraction with fewer people. You're also less likely to wait long for an elevator. Late spring, summer and early fall are the busiest times of year for visitors.

The time of day to visit largely depends on what you want to see. If you want a chance to see the opposite shoreline, go during the day. If you want to see the city's famous orange glow, go up at night. If you're in town during the 4th of July, make it a point to go to 360 CHICAGO at night on either the 3rd or 4th to experience fireworks near and far. You'll never see fireworks in the same way again.

What should you do there?

Exterior view from 360 CHICAGO

The 360 CHICAGO building stands 1,127ft tall and has a total of 100 storeys. The observation deck is located on the 94th floor and offers excellent views of the lakefront, Navy Pier, Lake Michigan, the city of Chicago, and its surrounding suburbs. The western view is clear all the way to O'Hare airport and beyond. The observatory has windows that span from the ceiling to the floor for visitors to get the best possible views in all directions. It's even possible to see the Indiana and Michigan shorelines across Lake Michigan on a clear day.

Hang out with a snack and a drink while enjoying one of the views, or sit down on the bleacher-style seating to watch the sun set on the west side. Try to name all of the tall buildings in your immediate view. Walk around the floor and take pictures from each cardinal direction to preserve your memories of your trip high above Chicago.

 

Tilt!

Tilt at 360 Chicago

See Chicago from a whole new angle with the TILT! attraction. When TILT! is in its place, it looks like the rest of the glass walls in 360 CHICAGO - but looks can be deceiving. Once the ride starts going, you'll notice the floor, walls, and ceiling move outwards, putting people on a 30-degree angle for a view of the Mag Mile unlike any other.

Be sure to hold onto the handles as the ride leans outwards away from the building! Riding TILT! requires an additional ticket that can be purchased at the 360 CHICAGO box office. It holds up to eight people at one time, so the whole family can experience the ride together.

Some 360 CHICAGO history
 

  • The concept for the building was originally created in 1964 and was financed by the John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company. The architectural firm of Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill, the same firm that designed the Willis Tower, was commissioned to design the John Hancock Center.
     
  • Construction began in 1967 but was interrupted by issues with soil settlement when the building reached 20 stories high.
     
  • Floors 44 to 92 are residential units.
     
  • In 1981, Dan Goodwin made an unauthorized climb of the exterior of the John Hancock in an attempt to draw attention to the fact that there were no escape routes from the building in the event of a fire.
     
  • The X-braced exterior made it possible for engineers to build to a record height. Its tubular structure system gives it the flexibility it needs to resist high winds without risk of collapsing.
     
  • The elevators for 360 CHICAGO are considered to be the fastest in the Western Hemisphere. They move upwards at 1,800 ft/min, or 20.5 mph. It takes less than two minutes to go from the concourse-level entryway to the observation deck.
     
  • Tilt! was added to 360 CHICAGO in 2014.

Nearby Attractions

The location of the John Hancock right on Michigan Avenue means it's within easy walking distance of the high-end stores that line it. There are also interesting attractions nearby while getting to others requires a short trip by bus or trolley.

Museum of Contemporary Art

This museum is one of the world's largest institutions dedicated to the work of living artists. It is a premiere venue for cutting-edge art and performance in Chicago, featuring rotating exhibitions of both ascendant artists and contemporary icons. Best of all? It's right down the street from 360 CHICAGO, so definitely check it out after your trip to the top of the city. 

Getting in: Museum of Contemporary Art tickets are included on all Chicago passes.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier

After seeing Navy Pier from above, visit for yourself at ground level. What’s here? Chicago’s Navy Pier, built in 1916, features timeless parks, promenades, gardens, shops, eateries and attractions, and more. You can easily spend a full day here in this mini-city, and there truly is something to suit everyone’s tastes. Ride the Ferris wheel, explore the beer garden, or visit the Children's Museum. 

Getting in: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel & Rides tickets and Chicago Children's Museum tickets are included with Go Chicago Card.

Water Tower & Pumping Station

The Water Tower & Pumping Station are one block south of the John Hancock Center. Both buildings survived the Chicago fire of 1871, and stand as a testament to Chicago's inspiring will to rebuild after such a disaster.

Getting In: Admission is free of charge.

Places to Eat Nearby

There are plenty of dining opportunities both at the Hancock Center and in the immediate area that are sure to satisfy your appetite.

  • The Architect's Corner Cafe' and Bar, located at 360 CHICAGO, features coffee, gelato, artisanal snacks, and a full bar with daily cocktail specials.
     
  • The Cheesecake Factory occupies the first floor and concourse level for easy access. It's known for its huge portions, great menu, and of course, delicious cheesecake.
     
  • The Signature Room and Lounge at the 95th is famous for its cocktails, and quality menu options. Sit down for some cocktails and light fare with awesome views before a night on the town, or settle in for an unforgettable meal.
     
  • L'Appetito on the concourse level is an Italian bistro/gourmet grocery store. It serves hot and cold foods along with Italian and American beverages. Sit down and enjoy the meal or take it with you as you wander around Michigan Avenue.
     
  • Get a refreshing drink at Argo Tea on Chestnut and Rush, a short walk west from the John Hancock Center.
     
  • Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse on Rush and Bellevue is an iconic Chicago steakhouse that serves up the best possible cuts of meat.

Need to know

Hours

  • Daily, 9:00 am-11:00 pm. Last admission is at 10 pm.
  • Open 365 days a year. Please check the website for special events.

Directions & Address

875 N. Michigan Avenue 94th floor, John Hancock Center Chicago, IL 60611

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things to do in gold coast chicago
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Things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago

So, you've chosen your vacation destination. The Windy City. Chi-Town. The real-life Metropolis, minus the superheroes. Chicago is a fantastic getaway destination, full of great food, fun nights out, and plenty of top-level entertainment. But it's a big old town, with multiple districts and areas that crisscross throughout its gargantuan layout. With so many to choose from, which one is right for you? Well, don't let choice paralysis get the better of you! We've done all the research necessary, so you don't have to. Give Gold Coast a go. It's as simple as that. With a wealth of entertainment on offer, it's the perfect vacation spot. Here are our picks for the best things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago! Including: Oak Street Beach Playboy Mansion Broadway Playhouse Washington Square Park Drake Hotel Bar and more! Hit the Beach Why not ease into your trip with a spot of lounging? After all, you've got the rest of your vacation to go see the sights. Lucky for you, the Gold Coast lives up to its namesake. Head there, and you'll find Oak Street Beach. Of course, you'll find heaps of golden sand, clean sea, and (hopefully) glistening sun - that's what the beach is all about, after all. However, Oak Street Beach is also perfectly placed to visit at any time during the day, as it's just a stone's throw from the city itself. Take a dip in the ocean, go grab an ice cream for the kids - or yourself, who are you kidding - and then check out the nearby patio bar for a cool, refreshing drink. Easily one of the best things to do in the Gold Coast when you visit Chicago. Feel like a Playboy Yes, really. Though you probably know the Playboy Mansion as the once celebrity-laded party mansion near Beverly Hills, it wasn't always there. In fact, the original Playboy Mansion was bought right here on the Gold Coast back in the '50s. The rather less impressive original is well over 100 years old at this point, and has changed hands multiple times. First, Hefner donated it to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago when he moved into his legendary LA pad. Then, the institute sold it to a redevelopment firm, and it's now been converted into condos in a rather typical fashion. However, if you want to see a piece of 20th-century American history in the flesh, you owe it to yourself to go and bask in the extravagant opulence of the original Playboy Mansion. Just don't plan on buying one of the condos, unless you've got a few mill to spare. Broadway, baby! If the weather takes a turn, or you just want a couple of hours out of the sun, why not retreat to the bright lights and comfort of broadway? Yes, even in Chicago, you can get a taste of the New York performance mile thanks to Broadway Playhouse! A stone's throw from the coast, you'll find a host of great plays and musicals being shown throughout the year, from all-time classics to the new shows on the block. You might even stumble upon a one-man show, or local play before it gathers steam. Walk in the Park Are you a fan of the color green? Do you like walking? Is the prospect of breathing in fresh air, mingling with trees, shrubs, and grass appealing to you? Answer us these questions three, and we'll give you a place you want to be. At. A park, of course! Gold Coast has you covered in flowers and grass, thanks to Washington Square Park. Go there for the giant 19th-century fountain, stay for the delightful green spaces, picnic opportunities, or simply for a stroll. So, what are you waiting for? Get Risky When you're in Gold Coast, why not grab a drink at a Hollywood monument? Sort of, at least. Featured in the '80s Tom Cruise classic Risky Business, the Drake Hotel is one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks! But we're not talking about the room service here. We're talking about the Hotel's bar, called the Coq d'Or. This lavish hotel lounge has been warming customers' cockles since the dark Prohibition days. Head inside and find a wealth of drinks, a menu to die for, and enough comfort you'll feel like a marshmallow. A pampered marshmallow. Best Pizza in town Wow, all that doing things, seeing things, and experiences must have made you hungry. Well, Chicago is famous for one thing in the food department, and that's deep dish. The Chicagoan take on the Italian classic is known worldwide for its deliciousness, thanks to its unusual sauce-over-cheese twist. So why not go get some and see if it lives up to its reputation? Lou Malnati's, right in Gold Coast, is arguably the best in town. The name is a staple of the Chicago style, having helped pioneer it in the early 20th century. So go grab a slice of delight and take your tastebuds to pizzatown. Or something. Go Shopping Let's end this list on a shopping, surely many of our readers' favorite pastimes. Thankfully, Gold Coast is full of shops of all shapes and sizes, so no matter what item you seek, you're sure to find it there. However, for those of you with expensive tastes, you'll be looking for The Magnificent Mile. Head there, and you'll find a shopper's paradise. Over 400 stores line the 'Mile', including the likes of Chanel, Louis Vitton, and Tiffany. So, if you're looking for some dear deals and have the cash to splash, you'll be right at home. On top of all that shopping, you'll also find a slew of gourmet restaurants, snug cafes, and much more. So, if that all sounds like heaven to you, go on down and see what's cracking! And that's our list of the best things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago! If you want to know about the other areas of Chicago, check out our thoughts here. Heading to Chicago at the tail end of winter? The beaches might be a no-go, but there's plenty more to do and see!
Dom Bewley
things to do in river north chicago
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Things to do in River North, Chicago

Heading to Chi-Town for your vacation and looking for things to do? Look no further than River North. It's one of the best areas in Chicago, with something for just about everyone. Read on and discover our top picks! Including: Theater performances Live comedy Arcade fun Nightlife Culture and more! Performances to die for First on our list, let's talk about theater. Chicago has a rich history of performance, from musicians to comics. And thankfully, that includes plays too. There are theater venues all over the city, and even two sublime ones right in River North. Firstly, one that's gone from strength to strength. In under two decades, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater troupe upgraded from the back of a bar to a huge theater on Navy Pier. This Tony Award-winning group may specialize in the great English writer's work, but they also tackle other works and even musicals. Go check out their brilliant performances when you're visiting River North! The other choice on our list wears its influence on its sleeve. The Lookingglass Theatre leans into the hallucinogenic weirdness of Alice in Wonderland by taking well-known literary pieces and putting their own weird, hectic twist on them. Founded by David Schwimmer of Friends fame, they're another Tony Award-winning company that does things differently. Go see what's on when you're in town and catch a show! Split your sides Turn that inevitable frown upside down with a spot of comedy. At The Comedy Bar in River North, you won't just get laughs. Yes, they have a weekly rotation of great local and national comics gracing the stage, bringing you a laugh-a-minute experience, but it's also a great place to go eat, drink, and have a good time. A Gino's East residency means they'll bring some of the best deep dish, Chi-Town style pizza right to your table. They offer a wide selection of refreshing beverages to wash it all down, and they even accept event bookings. In town for a birthday? Go book a table and see what all the fuss is about! It's all fun and games If you're in the mood for more fantastic fun, then River North has got you covered - and then some. If you like your fun tinged in neon and accompanied by the nostalgic sounds of '80s arcades, then get up immediately, leave the house, and head to FTW Chicago. Prepared to be transported back to the prime of the arcade scene, where you'll find old coin-op cabinets with classic games like Pac-Man and Ms. Pac-Man, among other Pac-Man-related games. Challenge your friends and family to a friendly game of air hockey. Fight to the death at the Skee-Ball machines. Or tear your enemies apart on the mini-golf course. You can even win prizes, should you best your enemies utterly and absolutely. All of this fun is backed by a burgeoning bar full of beer and delightfully colored cocktails. Or, check out Beercade, which offers a massive selection of free arcade machines for you and your friends to play. Combine that with an arcade ton of beers, and some tasty treats on the menu, and you've just found yourself the perfect night out. They even show sports, if you like putting your hopes and dreams in the hands of ludicrously-paid strangers. Or, work up a sweat at Lucky Strike, Chicago's premier bowling slash ping pong slash pool slash arcade bonanza. Kitted out in real props from The Big Lebowski, it's the perfect place to blow off some steam, grab a drink or a meal, and geek out. Nights out If you prefer your nights out of the less active variety, then guess what? River North has got. You. Covered. At the Underground Wonder Bar, you'll find delicious Mexican food paired with some brilliant live music from the jazz, blues, and soul scene. They also have rap and R&B-focused open mic sessions each month, and it's open til late. Truly a wonder bar you'll find underground! If you prefer to add a little electronic music to your dance-y night, Rec Room has great DJs spinning records every week, a cozy dancefloor to embarrass yourself on, and great drinks to boot. Art for the heart Let's switch gears to something less heart-pumping and more mind-opening. We're talking about culture, ladies and gents, and by golly River North has a ton to go see. For a great collection of great art from all across the globe, head to Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art. It's one of the biggest collections of modern artwork in the country. Step inside, and you'll find comprehensive galleries, a rotation of exciting exhibits, as well as live performances from artists. Then, when you're all cultured out, grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee from the on-site cafe. The Carl Hammer Gallery has a great mix of old and new art styles on display, with paintings, sculptures, and photographs from local artists that will certainly leave you staring and pondering the meaning of life and society. You'll find a similar mix of interesting and exciting art at the Zolla/Lieberman Gallery. Featuring walls of contemporary art pieces that embrace a wide variety of genres, you're sure to find something that draws the eye. You can even support the local community by picking up a piece for yourself, if you're in the market. Bites and delights And finally, let's end our list with some delicious food. Unsurprisingly, North River is full of fabulous eateries. So, if you're visiting Chicago, grabbing a bite to eat is one of the best things to do! For fans of Asian cuisine, there's Sunda Chicago, which features a menu brimming with Asian fusion dishes, sushi, and cocktails. They also have a happy hour menu, and do a brunch every week too, so no matter when you're hungry, you'll be satisfied! Top it all off with a chic, modern design, and you've got yourself a great restaurant. The Smith, on the other hand, will tickle your New American sensibilities, with delicious modern takes on American classics. If the weather's good, you'll find a large garden there with enough table space to spread out and make the most of the sunshine. Or, if you're feeling continental, Ema has delicious, authentic Mediterranean dishes that are sure to hit the spot! And that'll do it for the best things to do in River North, Chicago!
Dom Bewley
pilsen chicago
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Things to do in Pilsen, Chicago

Do you like your neighborhoods to have the perfect mix of cool, community, and culture? Then give Pilsen a go! This district of Chicago has some great and unique entertainment opportunities for travelers and locals alike. So, if you're visiting Chi-Town on vacation, these are the best things to do in Pilsen! Including Live music BBQ with a glamorous twist Some culture Parks Street art and more! Get live We begin today with music. Live music, to be exact! Nothing quite beats seeing a band jam in the flesh, and lucky for you, Pilsen has a few awesome venues to check out. One of Pilsen's oldest landmarks is Thalia Hall, which is over 120 years old and still going strong! This powerhouse of live entertainment hosts comedy greats like Dave Chappelle as well as huge bands like The Smashing Pumpkins, among many others. In recent years, the addition of several bars, restaurants, and alternative stages have grown Thalia Hall's entertainment opportunities. So go check out what's on when you're visiting Chicago. If you prefer your music noisier, your performance wilder, and your gigs more carefree, then check out The Dojo. Chicago's premier underground music venue hosts local noise bands, leftfield artists, and much more. Every weekend they have new and exciting alternative acts gracing the stage, so head down there and see what all the fuss is about! Carnival BBQ BBQ is the backbone of America. For decades, we've ventured out of our abodes, fired up the grill, and invited friends and family over for a cookout. Nothing brings the community together better than BBQ. And Pilsen has a quality BBQ joint with a musical twist. We're talking about Honkey Tonk BBQ, where hungry souls can go to fill their bellies and their minds, thanks to the jazz and blues parties they host most nights. Chow down on some delicious BBQ meat, and then work off the calories through the night. But one Saturday a month, they mix things up a bit, as the place is taken over by an improv burlesque quintet. They'll have you dancing and laughing in no time. Easily one of the best things to do in Pilsen when you visit Chicago! Get cultural Next, let's switch gears to something more cultural. If you're looking for some inspirational, mind-opening experiences, then Pilsen's got you covered. At the National Museum of Mexican Art, you'll find art from Mexicans both in the US and across the border. Chicago is known as the 'Mexico of the Midwest', and this museum is a testament to the artistry of many Mexicans who now call Chi-Town home. Wander through over 7000 pieces, and learn about the stories that helped create them. Or, if your tastes lie a little leftfield and you want something exclusive, then House of the Apocalypse might be just what you're looking for. Only open for four hours every month, this weird and wonderful collection of artwork is quite the sight. Featuring sci-fi and post-apocalypse influences, House of Apocalypse's collection is something you won't quite find anywhere else. Street art named desire If you prefer your artwork of the outdoor, urban variety, or simply want to peruse in the glow of the sun, then go check out the massive collection of street art on 16th Street. Brought together thanks to a collaboration between multiple local institutions, you'll find a wealth of works from global street artists. In fact, this collaboration has helped restore a lot of the area, which was once derelict and dirty. So, two birds with one stone then! At the same time, it's ensured that Pilsen remains true to its roots, and doesn't sway too far into the gentrification we've seen happening all over America and other parts of the world. Pilsen is community-first, and always should be. More eateries! And when all that activity brings on the hunger prangs, Pilsen's got some great restaurants to sate your grumbling tummy. Head to Barrio for some authentic Mexican cuisine and a whole menu dedicated to tequila-based cocktails! What some fresh, farm-to-table dishes at a reasonable price? Go check out Dusek's Tavern. Their fixed menu of exciting, New-American cuisine means you get delicious food and a great price. In the market for some delicious East-Asian delights? Give HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen a look. With a mix of street food, fixed dishes, unique family recipes, and a fine line of cocktails to boot, it's a must-visit for anyone visiting Pilsen. Drinks After all of those activities and food, the next stop on your Pilsen journey should be one of its many watering holes. Thankfully, Pilsen is full of them, so you have the pick of the litter. Want some classic pub food, refreshing craft beer, and cool aesthetic on your night out? Skylark's the one. Want to try something a little kookier? How does a hidden basement bar with creative punches sound? That's Punch House, which has a whole menu full of fruity punches to try, as well as sandwiches, all rolled into a retro-vintage vibe. Doesn't get more Pilsen than that! Or, grab a slice of pizza and pick from any number of craft beers at The Green Room Tap. Whichever way you decide to go, you're bound to have a blast! Find a park-ing spot Let's end this list on a walk through some of Chicago's green and pleasant land. Of course, we're talking about parks. And, of course, Pilsen's got its share of great ones! Firstly, there's Harrison Park, which has a gym, indoor pool, and even meeting rooms housed within the Fieldhouse. So, if you like to get active, you can do it inside or out. Beyond that, you'll find over 18 acres of sweet green space to go sit, have a jog, or prepare a picnic. Look out of the bust of Emiliano Zapata, one of the biggest names of the Mexican Revolution. Or, check out Dvorak Park, which boasts a baseball field, its own pool and unique water feature, soccer pitches, playgrounds, and a whole heap of comfortable, welcoming grass. You may even catch the odd performance there on the right day, as there's a big art scene that calls the park home. The playground is perfect for kids, if you're bringing the little ones. And that's our list of the best things to do in Pilsen, Chicago!
Dom Bewley

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