Skydeck Chicago Skyline

Visiting SkyDeck Chicago at Willis Tower

How to get the best bird's eye view of the Windy City
By Katie Sagal

Take a trip to the top of the Willis Tower - daredevils will love The Ledge, while foodies will be thrilled with the Pie in the Sky experience.

No visit to Chicago is complete without visiting one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, the Willis Tower. It's actually the second-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere! One of the most famous parts of the Willis Tower is SkyDeck Chicago, the observation deck that sits on the 103rd floor of the skyscraper.

At a dizzying 1,353 feet in the air, SkyDeck Chicago is the highest observation deck in all of the United States. On a clear day, you can see four states from the top: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. It's no surprise that we think a visit here is an absolute must on any Chicago itinerary, and here's why...

What to do at SkyDeck Chicago

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, SkyDeck has twin antennas that protrude from the top of the 110-story Willis Tower, making it one of the most recognizable buildings in the entire city. Of course, the main attraction at this skyscraper is the dazzling observation area, but there's plenty more to see and do here.

Reaching for the sky

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Reaching for the sky

As soon as you step off the elevator, you'll be encompassed by 360-degree views of the city. The crystal-clear windows allow for uninterrupted views of Chicago's finest skyscrapers. You'll see Lake Michigan, Wrigley Field, 360 Chicago, Cloud Gate at Millenium Park, and so much more.

The Ledge

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If you’re brave enough, take a few steps out onto “The Ledge”, an all-glass balcony that extends four feet out into space from the building’s edge. This glass box allows visitors to walk out onto a see-through ledge, perched 1,353 feet up in the air.

The Ledge is enormously popular with visitors, though it's not for the faint of heart. For those who simply can't bring themselves to try it for real, the Willis Tower SkyDeck Chicago has video screens set up that simulate the experience of stepping out onto The Ledge.

See how other skyscrapers measure up

This area of the attraction is an exhibit that compares the height of the Willis Tower to other buildings from around the globe. Kids will love the chance to see how many people it takes to reach the height of the tower!

Have fun in The Tower

Play an interactive Chicago trivia game, get your photo taken with the famed “103” sculpture (signifying the number of stories), and just plain enjoy being up this high, with a bird's eye view of the Windy City.

Explore interactive exhibits

Touch screens, photos, and other multimedia exhibits highlight the history of the Willis Tower and SkyDeck Chicago. With fun activities to keep kids happy and informative data that adults will enjoy, a trip here will be a great experience for the whole family.

Top tips for visiting SkyDeck Chicago

Visiting SkyDeck Chicago

Top tips for visiting SkyDeck Chicago

If you want to get a feel for the full SkyDeck experience, leave extra time to enjoy the other exhibits, videos, and more.

  • For the most up-to-date information about Skydeck Chicago, visit their website. Be sure to check their calendar for any upcoming events that might be happening when you visit.
  • The best views can be found in the early morning or after 5 pm. Make your reservation as soon as you decide when you want to visit.

  • Remember to turn off your flash when taking photos out the windows, or you’ll end up with glare from the glass.

  • If you’ll be visiting with children, check out the SkyDeck Chicago kids page for ideas on how to keep them entertained and engaged.

  • There are several restaurants to dine at throughout the attraction, so no need to go elsewhere for a snack or a light lunch. See below for some examples).

When is the best time to visit?
 

Like many Chicago attractions, Skydeck Chicago is going to be most popular between mid-morning and early afternoon. Hop in line early to get beautiful views of the morning sky, or bask in the late afternoon sun.

Some Willis Tower history

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  • The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, was originally built to be a new corporate headquarters for Sears Roebuck and Company. As the largest retailer in the world at the time, they commissioned architects Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill to design the building.
  • Construction started in 1970 and took 3 years to complete with a staff of 2,000 workers.
  • The Willis Tower is the second tallest building in the Western Hemisphere at 1,450 feet tall with 110 stories, after the One World Trade Center in New York.
  • SkyDeck Chicago attracts around 1.5 million tourists each year.
  • The glass ledge on the 103rd floor extends 4.3 feet from the edge of the building and was added to the building in 2009.
  • On a clear day, visitors can see up to 50 miles out and three surrounding states.
  • The tower contains 25 miles of plumbing, 1500 miles of electric wiring, 80 miles of elevator cable, 796 restroom faucets, and more than 145,000 light fixtures.
  • As a finishing touch during the building’s completion, the last beam that was put in place was signed by 12,000 construction workers, Sears employees, and Chicagoans.

Not just a feast for the eyes

For those looking for an unforgettable dining experience while admiring the Chicago skyline, the SkyDeck restaurant opens once the observation deck closes to the public. You can enjoy VIP Dinners on the 103rd floor, including the inimitable Pie in the Sky Experience. What could be better than indulging in Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza while admiring the buzzing city below? 

Be sure to check the latest information on the website and make your reservation three days in advance.

 

Attractions nearby the SkyDeck Chicago

Because of the Willis Tower’s central location, there are several attractions within walking distance or a short bus ride away. Here are a few of our favorites:

Millenium Park

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It goes without saying that when you're in Chicago, it's basically mandatory to take a photo with The Bean. This iconic sculpture is actually named The Cloud Gate, and is one of many gorgeous works that resides within the park. Make sure stop there and explore a bit.

Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is the best way to get a comprehensive tour of the city and lucky for you, there's a stop right at the Willis Tower. Take the bus to other famous Chicago landmarks and attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago, Millenium Park, Navy Pier, the Museum Campus, and more.

Art Institute of Chicago

Art lovers visiting Chicago cannot miss this one. The museum is consistently rated one of the Top Museums in the World by TripAdvisor and is home to some of the world's most famous pieces. You'll see Chagall's "America Windows", Matisse's "Bathers by the River", and Georgia O'Keefe's "Black Cross, New Mexico".

Chicago Theatre District

chicago-theatre-lights-dusk

Not too far from SkyDeck Chicago, you'll find the iconic Theatre District. Walk the streets lined with concert venues and famous theater houses, or take a tour of the most famous of them all: the Chicago Theatre.

Places to Eat Nearby

If you’re hungry after your ascent to the top and you'd rather grab dinner on the ground, never fear – there are plenty of dining options in the surrounding few blocks. Check out these restaurants on your trip:

  • Protein Bar & Kitchen is a good spot to refuel for more sightseeing/
  • If you’re just looking for a caffeine boost, then Mojo Coffee, Starbucks , and Dunkin Donuts are all nearby.
  • There's also a wide selection of fast and fast-casual food in the area, from McDonald's to Potbelly's.
  • For something different, Roti Modern Mediterranean offers fresh, fast, and tasty options.

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Top things to do in Chicago for birthdays

A birthday is a great excuse to push the boat out and treat yourself to something beyond the everyday. When it comes to things to do in Chicago for birthdays you’re not limited to a night out in a speakeasy-style bar or a smart restaurant – although both are excellent options for sharing the special day with friends and family. In fact, the windy city is a breeze when it comes to finding unique ways to mark a birthday. Don’t believe us? Just take a look at our pick of the crop! Spend your birthday on the beach Because of the city’s location on the western shores of Lake Michigan, summer babies can spend the day on the sands of any of Chicago’s beaches. For atmosphere, head to North Avenue Beach, one of the most popular. Decked out with volleyball courts, jet ski and other water sports rentals and even WiFi, there’s something for everyone. A short walk from the Museum of Science and Industry, 57th Street Beach is generally a little more laid back, although still provides the chance to try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing from its northern end once you’ve soaked up enough of the sun from the yellow-orange sand. For the ultimate in tranquility, consider heading to Promontory Point in Burnham Park instead, where the sand is replaced with stepped limestone blocks and plenty of opportunity for a picnic. But don’t do away with your swimwear if you celebrate your birthday during the winter months. Simply switch the beach for one of the city’s top spas. Lounge by a temperature-controlled indoor pool whilst cocktails I brought to you, feel rejuvenated with a full body massage, or soak in a wine bath – the antioxidants are said to be kind to the skin. Celebrate with a glass in hand If bathing in the stuff seems like a waste, you’re in luck – the nearest vineyards are just a few miles out of the city. 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Alternatively, take the elevator as far as it will go in your hotel – it’s more than likely any downtown stay has its own rooftop perch. Party with a view The Chicago skyline is difficult to tire of and fun things to do for a birthday in Chicago include taking in the city from its tallest buildings. Once the tallest building on Earth, and still one of its loftiest, the Willis Tower contains Chicago’s highest vantage point without recourse to a parachute or helicopter – the Skydeck. Over 1300 feet up on the 103rd floor, sunset is the prime time to visit. To make things extra special, the 99th floor contains a second space with the same panoramic views of the city that can be hired out for private events. The Skydeck isn’t the only fun thing to do for a birthday in Chicago where you’ll find personalized treatment. Head back to Navy Pier and you can step aboard the Centennial Wheel’s VIP gondola. Its plush interior has enough seating for four, ideal for smaller gatherings. 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Not only is taking advantage of this reduced attraction admission incredibly easy, but you’ll generally get to skip the ticket line and keep much of the flexibility that’s important when on vacation. Not sure where to start? Follow @GoCity on Facebook and Instagram for what’s hot and what’s not right around the globe!
Ian Packham
A woman enjoys the green spaces of Chicago
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Set yourself up with one of our pre-pay passes and you’ll know you've got huge discounts on entry to many of Chicago’s most popular attractions and things to do!
Ian Packham

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