Every day of the year, visitors experience Skydeck Chicago on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. The public observatory offers amazing views of the Chicago cityscape, famous landmarks, and even other states up to 50 miles away (on a clear day). At 1,353 feet, it’s the highest observation deck in the United States. But beyond impressive vistas, visitors will also find exciting, immersive experiences.
The Skydeck Experience
Begin your adventure on the lower level at The Skydeck Experience. This 30,000-square-foot interactive museum showcases Chicago history, including the devastating Great Chicago Fire. See what it took to construct the architecturally significant 110-story Willis Tower, the third-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere (and eighth tallest in the world). Hop on a full-scale ‘L’ train for a video tour of nine neighborhoods. Learn about Chicago’s famous foods, including deep dish pizza and hot dogs. Then, pose with likenesses of famous Chicagoans like basketball legend Michael Jordan, superstar Oprah Winfrey, and former President Barack Obama.
Step onto The Ledge
Take a speedy elevator ride up to the 103rd floor for Skydeck’s biggest wow factor: The Ledge. Step out onto one of The Ledge’s five glass observation boxes that jut 4.3 feet from the building and feel the city. Look down at the city, Wacker Drive, and the Chicago River — the views are stunning. While here, get creative with your Instagrammable photos and leave them on an interactive wall.
Dining and drinks
Linger over the views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan a bit longer on the 99th floor. Skydeck Chicago’s Pie in the Sky restaurant offers an unforgettable VIP dining experience on Friday and Saturday evenings. The three-course meal featuring a salad, Chicago-style stuffed pizza, and dessert is catered by the iconic Giordano’s. Reservations are required and must be made at least three days in advance.
Or, opt for a Skydeck lunch, drink, or dinner package with Kindling Downtown Cookout + Cocktails on the first floor of Willis Tower. Helmed by James Beard Award-winner Jonathon Sawyer, the restaurant offers upscale live-fire cooking and sweeping views from its second-floor outdoor terrace.
Explore even more dining, plus shopping destinations, on the five floors that comprise Catalog, located at the base of Willis Tower.
If you’re interested in hosting an unforgettable private event, rent Skydeck’s 99th-floor space, which can be customized to accommodate 50 to 400 people. And, you can arrange for your event to include a complete Skydeck Chicago experience for your guests.
Plan your visit
Get a sneak peek of what to expect via the live SkyCam and the Skydeck Experience video, then start planning your Skydeck Chicago experience today. Purchase tickets in advance online.
