The Skydeck Willis Tower, Chicago

The Skydeck Willis Tower, Chicago

Once the tallest building in the world, the Willis Tower now has to settle for the title of the second tallest building in the United States alone, after One World Trade Center in New York City.

Once the tallest building in the world, the Willis Tower now has to settle for the title of the second tallest building in the United States alone, after One World Trade Center in New York City. Rising to 442.1 metres over 108 floors, it is an awe-inspiring feat of engineering. On the 103rd floor at 1353 feet is the Skydeck, offering incredible views over Chicago and Lake Michigan all the way to Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin on a clear day.

Hop aboard the elevator to reach the Skydeck in about 60 seconds, feeling the pressure change as you rise up. 'The Ledge' is a transparent balcony that juts out 4.3 feet from the Skydeck, offering heart-stopping views of the ground below. The Skydeck offers 360° views – to the north you can see the Chicago River, Lincoln Park Zoo and Wrigley Field; to the south you can see the Soldier Field, The Field Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Science and Industry; to the east stand the Millennium and Grant Parks, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium, while the west view shows you the University of Illinois’ Chicago campus, United Center, Oprah’s Harpo Studios, Little Italy and Greektown. Sunset is one of the best times to visit, when the entire city is bathed in golden light.

On you way to the Skydeck, you will come across various other attractions in the Willis Tower such as the large 103 monument, interactive and informative screens, the 'Reaching for the Sky' presentation on the architectural standards of Chicago’s landmarks, and other exhibits on the historic tower.