Willis Tower Sears Tower

Reaching for the Sky: A Tourist’s Guide to the Iconic Willis Tower

Standing tall in the heart of Chicago, the Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower) is more than just a skyscraper; it’s a symbol of the city’s ambition and architectural prowess. For decades, this towering structure held the title of the tallest building in the world, captivating visitors with its breathtaking views and sheer size.

Even though it’s no longer the tallest, the 103-story behemoth still offers an unforgettable experience for anyone venturing to the Windy City. Here’s your guide to exploring this architectural marvel:

Where to Visit:

• Skydeck Chicago: Experience the thrill of stepping onto “The Ledge,” a glass balcony extending 4.3 feet from the building, offering a dizzying view of the city below.
• Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise: This popular boat tour takes you along the Chicago River, providing stunning perspectives of the skyscraper and other architectural wonders along with the rest of the city’s skyline.

Things to do at the Willis Tower:

• Take a selfie on The Ledge: The Ledge is a glass-enclosed balcony with “ledge” windows that extend out from the 103rd floor, offering an incredible view (and photo opportunity) of the city below.
• Explore the different viewpoints: The Skydeck Chicago offers breathtaking panoramic views from the 103rd floor, but the experience doesn’t stop there! The building has a variety of observation decks and viewing platforms, each offering a unique perspective on the city.
• Learn about its history: The Willis Tower boasts a rich history. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Skydeck Chicago to learn about the building’s construction, architectural significance, and previous life as the Sears Tower!

Activities & Attractions:

• Step out onto the iconic Skydeck: Located on the 103rd floor, this glass-enclosed platform allows you to experience the thrill of standing 1,450 feet above ground level.

• Visit Willis Tower’s website for information on:

  • Current hours and ticket prices for the Skydeck Chicago (it’s recommended to book online in advance).
  • Special events and exhibitions: From seasonal celebrations to unique art installations, the Skydeck often hosts special events. Check their website for details on upcoming experiences.

• Enjoy the view from 103 floors: The Ledge offers a variety of different viewing options, including the “Tilt” experience where you can lean out over the city and the “Skydeck Chicago” website’s online booking system often provides discounts and special packages.

• Visit other nearby attractions:

  • Experience the city from above: Take advantage of the 103rd floor’s open-air, glass-enclosed viewing platforms for stunning panoramas.
  • Explore the Chicago Riverwalk: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverfront with beautiful views of the river and the city.

Restaurants & Dining:

• Grab a bite at one of the restaurants in the tower:

  • Skydeck Restaurant: Indulge in a meal while enjoying panoramic views of Chicago from above (reservations recommended).
  • The Grill Room: This upscale restaurant offers a more refined dining experience with exceptional service and a menu featuring classic American cuisine.

Accommodation & Lodging:

• Stay close to the action: While you won’t find a hotel within the Willis Tower itself, there are many excellent hotels nearby. Consider:
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago: A luxurious option with breathtaking city views.
  • Hyatt Regency Chicago: Located near the Magnificent Mile, this hotel offers convenience and comfort for visitors.

Accommodation Tips:

• Book in advance: Chicago is a popular tourist destination. To secure the best rates and availability, book your hotel room well ahead of time.
• Explore different neighborhoods: Staying outside of downtown can offer more affordable accommodation options while still being within reach of the city’s attractions.

Nearby Accommodation Options:

• The Peninsula Chicago: Enjoy 5-star luxury with a stunning view of Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile.
• Hotel Allegro Chicago: This chic hotel is located in the heart of the Loop and offers comfortable accommodations with a touch of history.

Travel Tips:

• Plan your visit: Researching the best time to go (weekdays are generally less crowded) and purchasing tickets online can save you time and money.
• Book a tour: Pre-booking a tour allows for priority access and ensures you don’t miss out on the wonders of the city from above.
• Consider the weather: Weather in Chicago can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before your visit to the Skydeck, as it may not be open in inclement conditions.

Accommodation Tips:

• Book a hotel with views: The Peninsula Hotel is known for its stunning cityscape and lake views.

• Look for convenient location: The Hyatt Regency Chicago offers a convenient base for exploring the city, with easy access to public transportation and popular attractions like Millennium Park.

• Consider nearby attractions:

  • Millennium Park: Home to iconic sculptures like “Cloud Gate” (the Bean) and Buckingham Fountain, this park is a must-visit for any tourist in Chicago.
  • Magnificent Mile: A renowned shopping destination with upscale boutiques, department stores, and restaurants.

• Enjoy the city’s vibrant culture:

  • Shopping: The Willis Tower is located near the heart of the Magnificent Mile, a shopper’s paradise with luxury stores like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co.
  • Dining: Explore various culinary delights at nearby restaurants.

Restaurants & Nearby Attractions:

• Enjoy fine dining:

  • The Signature Room at the 95th Floor: This restaurant offers a luxurious experience with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. It’s a great option for a special dinner after a day of exploring the city.

• Explore other options: Discover diverse restaurants in the area, catering to various tastes and budgets (check out “The Ledge” section above).

Remember:

• Book your tickets online: This will allow you to skip the ticket line at the 103rd floor and save time.
• Dress comfortably: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so wear shoes that are good for walking in and dress in layers.
• Wear sunscreen: The sun can be strong at this altitude and you will be closer to it than ever before!

Enjoy the experience:

• Be prepared for crowds: The Ledge is popular with tourists, so expect a crowd.

  • Plan your visit for weekdays or early mornings to avoid the longest lines.

• Bring a camera:

The views from the 103rd floor are stunning and you’ll want to capture them!

Enjoy the panoramic vistas of Chicago’s skyline and beyond, but don’t forget to:

• Check the weather: The Ledge is not always open, so it’s important to check their website or call ahead to see if it’s a good day for a visit.
• Consider a reservation: Booking online can ensure you get a spot on a busy day and allow for a smooth entry experience.

For the best views of Chicago, consider visiting:

• The Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) Observation Deck: The Skydeck offers a unique perspective with its stunning glass balconies extending out over the city.

• Other nearby attractions:

  • Magnificent Mile: Shop at world-renowned stores and enjoy upscale restaurants and shopping experiences.

Accommodation Options:

• The Ledge" - “Willis Tower”: While the Skydeck offers a fantastic view of the city, it’s worth exploring other options in Chicago as well to get a full experience:

• Hotels: For luxurious stays, consider The Peninsula Chicago, which is a 5-star hotel with a focus on luxury and comfort.

  • Luxury Hotels: The Ledge provides access to the “Willis Tower” experience.

• Restaurants:

• The Signature Room at the 95th: Enjoy fine dining with a view.

• Restaurants near Millennium Park: Many restaurants offer breathtaking views of the city, including The Art Institute of Chicago’s Terzo Piano and Cindy’s Rooftop.

Remember to enjoy the city from above!

Let me know if you’d like more information on any specific hotels or restaurants - I can help with that.