Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower (Sears Tower)

The basics

Willis Tower can be seen from across Chicago and is a highlight on most sightseeing tours and Chicago River cruises. To head to the top, book admission tickets in advance to skip the long lines—the 70-second elevator journey to Skydeck Chicago includes a film that covers the tower’s history. Then, admire the city from above and step out onto the Ledge. The only thing between you and the ground, 103 floors below, is 1.5 inches of glass. Of course, you can also simply book an early-access breakfast, lunch, or dinner on the 99th floor for a more relaxing experience.

Things to know before you go

• Allow at least an hour for a trip to the top.

• It’s best to book Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower (Sears Tower) tickets in advance to avoid waiting in admission lines.

• The building offers free public Wi-Fi.

• Gift shops and a café—serving popular Chicago fare from Connie’s Pizza and Vienna Hot Dogs—are located at the Skydeck.

• The Skydeck is completely accessible for wheelchair users.

How to get there

Willis Tower is located on the west side of the Loop, not far from the Chicago River. It’s serviced by several bus lines and is near the blue, brown, orange, pink, purple, and red lines on the L train. The Ogilvie Transportation Center and Union Station are both under half a mile (0.8 kilometers) west of Willis Tower. The entrance to the Skydeck experience is off Jackson Boulevard.

When to get there

Willis Tower is open year-round, with the Skydeck and The Ledge open October through February from 10am to 8pm and March through September from 9am to 10pm. Last entry to the Skydeck is 30 minutes prior to closing. To beat the crowds, visit early; alternatively, head there at sunset for great views. Avoid midday—the sun casts shadows and glare on the viewing windows and Ledge platform.

Where to get the best views of Chicago

Chicago is a city made to be admired from above and, thankfully, there are plenty of vantage points from which to do so. For views with a cocktail in hand, head to Cindy's Rooftop at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel; stop by the Rockefeller Memorial Chapel Tower for vistas over the University of Chicago; or—for a different perspective—take to the water for an architecture cruise and admire the buildings from below.

Ways to explore

Willis Tower is a highlight on most sightseeing tours and Chicago River cruises. To head to the top, book admission tickets in advance to skip the long lines. After a 70-second elevator journey to Skydeck, learn about Chicago’s history at the museum and admire the cityscape. The courageous can step out onto The Ledge, where the only thing between you and the ground is 1.5 inches (3.8 centimeters) of glass. For a meal with a view, book Skydeck’s exclusive dinner experience and feast on Chicago-style deep-dish pizza while watching the sunset over the city.

Accessibility

Skydeck Chicago is fully accessible, and wheelchairs are available for loan at the entrance.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, credit card to purchase official Ledge photos

What to wear

Comfortable shoes; a hat and sunscreen (if visiting as part of a city tour)

Not allowed

Lingering on The Ledge for more than 60–90 seconds, tripods

Amenities

Restrooms, official photography (extra charge), lobby restaurants, gift shop

Address

Willis Tower is located on the west side of the Loop, not far from the Chicago River, and it’s easy to reach the Jackson Boulevard entrance by public transportation, taxi, and rideshare.

Driving

From the Loop, head west on Adams Street, turning left onto Wacker Drive and left again onto Jackson Boulevard. From the west, take Interstate 290 east; exit at Wacker Drive/Franklin Street. Parking garages are on West Adams and South Franklin Streets.

Public transportation

Skydeck is served by several bus lines and the “L” train’s Brown, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines (exit at Quincy). The Ogilvie Transportation Center and Union Station are both under half a mile (0.8 kilometers) away.

Best times to visit

The observation deck, Ledge, and museum are open until 10pm year-round. Visit during the day for views that stretch for miles or after sunset to admire the city lights.

Best days to visit

Skydeck Chicago is busiest on Saturdays and Sundays, especially at sunset. Weekday mornings are relatively quiet, with a shorter wait to enter The Ledge.

Best months to visit

Visit in the summer for vistas of verdant parks and boats bobbing on Lake Michigan. Chicago winters are brutal, but you may enjoy snow-covered cityscapes from December to March.

Special events

Visitors can book Skydeck Chicago for private birthday parties and other celebrations.