Skydeck Chicago

Skydeck Chicago occupies the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, the skyscraper on South Wacker Drive that opened in 1973 and rises 1,451 feet to its roof. The deck sits about 1,353 feet, or 412 metres, above the street and has been open to the public since 1974. Lifts take around a minute to reach the top, and on a clear day the view stretches across the city grid and along the shore of Lake Michigan.

The main draw is The Ledge, a set of retractable glass boxes that extend about four feet from the side of the building. Standing on the glass floor and looking straight down at the street is the moment most people come for, and there is usually a short time limit for photos. The standard 3-in-1 ticket covers The Chicago Museum, The Ledge and the views.

The deck is open 365 days a year. Winter hours, from 1 October to the end of February, are 9am to 8pm daily and 9am to 9pm on Saturday, with last entry 30 minutes before closing; hours change in summer, so check the website. Queues can be long at busy times, especially for The Ledge, so buying tickets in advance helps. Visiting in the evening or on a weekday often means a shorter wait, and sunset is popular for watching the city lights come on.

Ticket options include the standard entry, Chicago CityPASS with expedited entry, sunset packages with seating on the 99th floor, and bundles with other attractions. The deck is certified sensory inclusive by KultureCity. Allow about an hour, more if queues are long.

The Skydeck suits first-time visitors, families with older children and anyone who enjoys a height. Those nervous about glass floors can still enjoy the views from the windows around the deck. Clear days give the best visibility, so check the weather and consider waiting if cloud is low.

Willis Tower is in the Loop at 233 South Wacker Drive. The lower levels have places to eat, including the Catalog dining area with several options, and parking discounts are offered through Interpark. Combine the deck with a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk or an architecture cruise to see the same towers from below.