360 Chicago View

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.
By Nicole Muto

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 to visit on your trip? We're breaking down the differences between the two popular observation decks in Chicago so you can choose between them. Of course, you could always visit both!

SkyDeck Chicago

view-skydeck-chicago-il-usa
  • Entrance to the observation deck
  • Unbeatable views of the city and beyond - see parts of four 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

aerial-image-chicago-illinois-skyline
  • 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. Luckily for you, both of these decks are located in prime locations full of other great Chicago attractions and sights.

SkyDeck Chicago

The Bean Millennium Park

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.

Millenium Park is home to the famous Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean") sculpture. You can't take a trip to Chicago without snagging a picture in front of it. Aside from housing one of the city's most famous works of art, the park is also a 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

Navy Pier

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.

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

Skydeck views

360 CHICAGO

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

View from Skydeck Chicago

SkyDeck Chicago

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 offers even more to do...

SkyDeck Chicago

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.

Tilt Chicago

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

Can't choose? Visit them both with Go City®

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 completely unique experiences at SkyDeck Chicago and 360 CHICAGO.

Save on admission to top Chicago attractions with Go City®  

Discover our full line-up of Chicago attractions including the Adler Planetarium, Skyline Lake Tour, Robie House, and more.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

So pick the Chicago pass that suits you and get our there!

Nicole Muto

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chicago in march
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Chicago in March

The long winter may be coming to an end, but there's still a chill in the windy city. March in Chicago can be cold, but boy, can it be fun. Don't believe us? How dare you. We will not stand by this insolence. Let us show you why you are wrong. Read on, and discover just why Chicago in March can be a magical time to visit the city! Featuring: St Patrick's Day Museums The aquarium Ice skating Art galleries and more! Chicago in March: What to Expect May is when temperatures will start to climb. Generally, you'll find tops of around 45°F, or 7°C, and dips of around 28°F, or -2°C. So, it's going to be cold. Pack some big warm coats, hats, and boots. This is compounded by rainfall and some snow too. So, maybe make sure that warm jacket is waterproof too! Chicago in March: What to Do St Patrick's Day Let's kick things off with the luck of the Irish. Of course, we're talking about St Patrick's Day! One of the many times when people get together, eat, drink, and be merry. While it falls on the 17th of the month, Chicago dedicates around a fortnight to the St Paddy's celebrations. It starts with the Chicago River turning green, because of course it does. And, between the bars and restaurants flying the green flag, the festivities culminate with the Downtown St Patrick's Day Parade and the South Side Parade, where everyone shares the love and the laughs. St Paddy's is a busy time of year in Chicago, so expect crowds all over the shop. However, if you can get past all that, you're in for a grand old time! Museums As the weather can be unkind this time of year, why not step inside and warm yourself with the fire of history and learning? Chicago has plenty of fantastic museums you should visit. The Field Museum has the world's most famous Tyrannosaurus Rex housed within. Dare you face the beast? It also contains plenty of historical artifacts from Ancient Egypt and China, so go see what all the fuss is about! Or, swap history for science at the Museum of Science and Industry. It's the US' largest science museum, and you'll find a huge amount of fun and intrigue inside. Control a tornado, see your heartbeat on a giant 3D-modeled heart, and explore the history of scientific breakthroughs and discoveries. If, however, you want to learn more about the city itself, head on over to the Chicago History Museum! Learn about Chicago's history on the national and international stage, read about the Great Fire that tore through the city in the 19th century, and all about one of the country's best presidents, Abraham Lincoln. All that and much more awaits you, so go there and enjoy the learning. Shedd Aquarium Another indoor adventure worth experiencing is at the Shedd Aquarium. Through its doors, you'll find another world of underwater wonder. Come face to face with exciting creatures like sharks, stingrays, and fish you've never seen before. At the Waters of the World exhibition, you'll discover the diverse ecosystems that call the ocean home throughout the world. Plunge into the Caribbean Reef, and meet the sea turtles, sharks, and eels that call it home. In Amazon Rising, you'll learn about the species that live in the river, and how seasonal climate shifts affect their lives. And, for the little ones, the Polar Play Zone lets kids live out their polar fantasies by zipping up a penguin suit and living a day in the life of their favorite birds! Ice skating As winter makes way for spring, the city's waters inevitably begin to thaw. However, if temperatures don't pick up too much, it's the perfect time to check out Chicago's excellent ice skating! Makeshift rinks pop up all over the city, so take your pick. There's the Maggie Daley Park skating ribbon, a huge ribbon-shaped course that gives you plenty of space to stretch your skates, pirouette, or frantically try and stay upright as your weak legs struggle to find balance. Alternatively, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is a more popular choice, as it's closer to the city's action. It's right by Cloud Gate, locally known as The Bean. If you don't know it by name, you've probably seen it. It's a giant, metallic, bean-shaped sculpture that's been featured in many films and TV shows. Why not capture the perfect snap of The Bean, as you fall down right in front of it? It is worth noting that you should check ahead before you visit any outdoor icerink in Chicago, as warmer temperatures may shut them down early. See some art If skating sounds too cold, or bold, for you, retreat to the warmth and safety inside, and get some culture in you. Chicago is a city full of art, so go see it. At the Art Institute of Chicago, you'll find one of the world's most renowned museums. Featuring inspiring works from the past and present, you're sure to find something amazing inside. While they have a number of mainstay exhibitions, they also have a seasonal rotation of awe-inspiring exhibits, so be sure to check what's on before venturing forth. Alternatively, check out the Museum of Contemporary Art. Out with the old and in with the new is the mantra here. See works from the 20th century all the way to today, with over 2,500 pieces on display. Much like many modern art institutions, you'll find a mix of media here, from film to canvas and sculpture too. And, this museum also doubles as a performing arts venue, with a massive amphitheater featuring acts from across the globe! When you've had enough art for one day, or you want to give your legs a rest, go grab a bite to eat at the museum's onsite restaurant, Marisol. Check out the Planetarium And finally, for the scientifically-minded and cosmos-curious, we end today's list with the perfect answer to Chicago's cold March. The Adler Planetarium helps visitors travel time and space itself, as they learn about the big black we see in the night sky. Through interactive exhibits, you'll explore the greatest hits of our galaxy, all 91 billion light-years of it, and get hands-on with replica space technology used today. Chicago's Night Sky is a massive exhibit that showcases how we as humans have related to the night sky throughout history. The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time gives you insight into the beginning of everything, and how galaxies have changed throughout the history of the universe. And for the little ones, there's Planet Explorers, which gives them the chance to understand space in fun and unique ways. And that's what you need to know about Chicago in March!
Dom Bewley
chicago in july
Blog

Chicago in July

Sun lovers! Welcome to the main event, the one you've all been waiting for. It is finally time to don your smallest clothing, break the emergency sunscreen cabinet, and put on as many pairs of sunglasses as you can. That's right, it's summer! And slap bang in the middle of the season of sun is July. Peak summer. The longest days, the warmest nights, and the perfect time to plan a vacation. Heading to Chicago from out of state or abroad? Or are you just a Chi-Town resident who wants some ideas for things to do? Read on, one and all, and find out about Chicago in July - what's on, and what to do. Featuring: Head to the beach Festival fun Water taxi Hit up Chinatown Wander the markets and more! Chicago in July: What to Expect May is peak summer in Chicago. Generally, you'll find tops of around 84-85°F, or 29-30°C, and dips of around 62-63°F, or 16-17°C. So, time to get out your summer best, and maybe a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. There is also around 7 days of rain each July, so be sure to pack a waterproof or umbrella. Chicago in July: What to Do Go to the Beach It's summer, so it's the perfect time to get some sun, sea, and sand in your life. Thankfully, Chicago has a load of beaches to enjoy. North Avenue Beach is one of the city's most popular spots. As such, it's quite the tourist hotspot, and will be busier than you might like. However, it's got great sand, and a prime location which is a stone's throw from the likes of Lincoln Park Zoo, which may be ideal if you've got little ones with you who are getting bored and antsy. If you're closer to downtown, then Oak Street Beach might be perfect for you. Rent a bike, grab a chair, or get a few rounds of volleyball in on one of the courts. In fact, they even host volleyball tournaments there, if that's your thing. Or, if you're bringing your goodest boy or girl with you on vacation, Montrose Beach is the only 100% dog-friendly beach in the city. It's a great spot to let them meet other dogs and run around to their heart's content. Also, it gives you the chance to meet other dog lovers and make friends, or maybe more if you're single. Who knows? Go give it a shot! Lollapalooza Music lovers, take note. One of the world's biggest and best music festivals takes place in Chicago every July. That's right, it's Lollapalooza. Every year, around 400,000 party people congregate in Grant Park for four days of great music, refreshing drinks, and good vibes. This eclectic festival has a great mix of genres too, so no matter what you like, there's sure to be a number of acts on the bill you'll wanna see. This year alone, the likes of Metallica and Green Day will be duking it out alongside Dua Lipa and Doja Cat. So, no matter if you're into rock, pop, rap, EDM, or anything in between, you owe it to yourself to check out Lollapalooza. Take a water taxi Chicago's a big place, so walking everywhere will take time. And sure, you can take a cab or train, but isn't that a bit pedestrian? Why not travel in style, and take to the waves on one of Chicago's awesome water taxis? They'll take you across the water to any number of destinations, including parks, different areas of the city, and even direct to Chinatown. So, if you want to travel in style and aren't in a rush, do yourself a favor and hop on one and make the most of the sunshine. Sit back, relax, and let the boat do the work. Check our Chinatown One of the must-see Chicago locations in July is Chinatown. Whether you're in the market for food, shopping, or some culture, Chinatown's got you covered. For your shopping needs, look no further than Chinatown Square. This two-story outdoor mall has a delightful selection of shops, boutiques, salons, and restaurants throughout. In the market for some eastern spices to glow up your meals? Looking for some new threads, interesting decorations, or nick-nacks? Head on over. Alternatively, if you're looking for some photo ops to boost your socials, check out Nine Dragon Wall. This faithful recreation of the famous Chinese landmark is a must-see. Or, if you wanna relax and soak up some sun with a picnic, head to Ping Tom Memorial Park. Hit up the markets If you didn't know, summer means market season in Chicago. Every year, you'll find a number of these stellar shopping experiences popping up across the city. So, whether you're looking to pick up some locally sourced fresh produce, or sample some delightful street food and craft drinks, you'll find all you need and more at these markets! Maxwell Street Market, for instance, has a mix of food, handmade accessories, homeware, and even bands playing. It's got a great community vibe you can only find at markets like these. There's kid-friendly entertainment too, if you're bringing the little rascals along. Tour the city And finally, we'll round things off with some fantastic tours of the city. There are boat tours, bus tours, and bike tours that will take you around all of the city's most recognizable landmarks while making the most of that sweet, sweet sun. For the architecturally-minded of you, there's the Shoreline Architecture River Cruise that rides past the bay's most famous buildings, giving you the history of the area and the people who built them. If you want a more active approach to sightseeing, why not hire a bike and burn some calories while you're at it? There are so many green trails off of the city's beaten path; it's a great way to explore the city without worrying about traffic. Or, if you want to sit back and see the sights on land, try a Gray Line Chicago Grand Tour. You'll see all of the city's best bits with the sun beating down on you and the wind in your hair. All while a guide tells you about the history of the city and the significance of each area. And that about does it for our guide to Chicago in July! Looking for other things to do in Chicago? We've got a guide for traveling around the city, which is perfect for tourists. Want to plan a family vacation? We've got you covered. Celebrating a birthday there? Check out our guide right here.
Dom Bewley
Chicago family vacation ideas
Blog

Chicago Family Vacation Ideas

Heading to the Windy City for a vacation? We've got everything you need to keep kids and adults entertained. Read on for our top tips for Chicago family vacations.
Katie Sagal

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