360 CHICAGO vs. Skydeck

What’s the difference between 360 CHICAGO and Skydeck? That’s one of the most common questions we hear, along with people asking if 360 CHICAGO is the same thing as the Willis Tower. These questions inevitably lead to folks wanting to know which one they should visit.

Local travel experts at Choose Chicago say, “Both offer unique thrills, jaw-dropping views, and an excellent overview of Chicago’s architectural legacy.” So how do you choose which one to visit on your next Chicago trip?

Well, wonder no more! This is your ultimate guide to 360 CHICAGO and Skydeck in the Willis Tower. Keep reading to decide which one is right for you!

The View: The Former John Hancock Center vs. Willis Tower

360 CHICAGO Views

360 CHICAGO is located on the 94th floor of 875 N Michigan Avenue, formerly known as the John Hancock Building. Situated in the heart of the city 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile, 360 CHICAGO offers you sweeping views of Lake Michigan and our neighboring states of Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan.

Reddit comments from past guests mention "Iconic lakefront views and city skyline" and "better lake and city views, hands down!" "a must see!"

This Chicago observation deck is very convenient if you’re staying north of the river around Michigan Avenue, near the Navy Pier, or along Magnificent Mile. Another plus is that you don’t need a car to reach 360 CHICAGO because the former John Hancock Center is ideally situated close to public transit. Numerous shops and restaurants abound, so you can make a day of it—hang out on the 94th floor at 360 CHICAGO, then go shopping and savor delicious local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

Time Out Chicago ranks 360 Chicago #4 on their list of the 17 best views in Chicago, the highest-ranked observation deck. “Its location by the lake on the Near North Side gives it a top-notch view of Lake Shore Drive,” they said.

Skydeck Willis Tower Views

Skydeck is located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, which is the tallest building in Chicago at 1,353 feet high. Located on Wacker Avenue, Skydeck does offer a different perspective than 360 CHICAGO with predominantly views from the west as well as the Chicago River, Wacker Drive and parts of Lake Michigan. On a clear day, you can see as far as the surrounding states of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

Located on the South Loop, this observation deck is an ideal location if you’re staying on or near Wacker Drive. This area also has easy transit access and is near shops and restaurants.

Some of our guests that have visited both towers have commented that "once you are at the top of any Chicago Observation deck, it's just high! The difference in feet isn't noticeable.”

One Reddit user ConfectionUnusual825 said, “We liked 360 better given views of both the city and the shoreline.”

360 CHICAGO offers stadium seating for sunset viewing on the west side.

Which Observation Deck has the Best Views of Chicago?

There is no doubt that 360 CHICAGO and Skydeck are the best observation decks in Chicago. Both offer fantastic views of the city from different perspectives. If you are going to choose one based on just the views, perhaps it depends on where you are staying in Chicago. North of the river, near Michigan Avenue is closer to 360 CHICAGO and south downtown near Wacker Drive is closer to the Willis Tower Skydeck.

“IMHO, Hancock has a better view than Sears. Being on top of the lake is kinda magical,” wrote Reddit user Wise-Application-435.

Wait times 360 CHICAGO vs. Skydeck

360 CHICAGO has timed access to elevators to ensure that during busy tourist days, wait times are reduced for visitors. There’s also a skip-the-ticket desk line to further reduce wait times. We do our best to manage wait times and keep them to a minimum.

Skydeck has timed elevator access during busy days and seasons and premium tickets to expedite entry as well. Willis Tower earns the status of tallest building in Chicago, so naturally, travelers want to see it. Perhaps the lines are longer than 360 CHICAGO, but wait times can vary by day, time, and season.

The wait time difference between these observation decks? Our answer is: It depends! We all do our best to ensure visitors get more time enjoying the views.

The Rides: TILT at 360 CHICAGO vs. The Ledge at Skydeck

TILT at 360 Chicago

TILT is Chicago’s highest thrill ride! Guests grab the handlebars, lean forward, and hold their breath as the glass tilts forward, moving eight people 1,030 feet over Michigan Avenue. Guests actively participate in experiencing the movement and views from the glass.

The Ledge at Skydeck

The Ledge is a glass box that extends out 4.3 feet from Willis Tower. Guests step into the glass box, look down to experience what 1,353 feet above feels like. There is a timed 60 (or 90 seconds for groups) to walk on the Ledge and take some fantastic pictures.

On TripAdvisor, Sarah W. said, “the real draw is the ledge which you only get 90 seconds to take photos on.”

How long should you spend at 360 CHICAGO vs Skydeck?

It's really up to you! The amount of time you spend at either Chicago observation deck depends on your interests and which activities you want to experience.

360 CHICAGO Observatory Activities - Stay as long as you like

At 360 CHICAGO, a relaxed vibe and plenty of seating with fantastic vistas will welcome you to the 94th floor, encouraging you to stay a while. Your general admission ticket also gives you access to Chicago’s highest bar, CloudBar, where you can toast amazing views and good company. The bar serves up delicious snacks and appetizers that pair well with their handcrafted cocktails.

There are weekly events, including yoga, and regular rotating art exhibits at Cloudwalk—Chicago’s highest art gallery. The observation deck is a popular location for photographers because they have the space to use tripods and can set up any time of day or night. You can also savor a three-course meal (after the observation deck closes to the public) either on the 99th or 103rd floor. But for $125 per person, you are definitely paying for the outstanding views and unique experience.

The ground floor features engaging exhibits and high-definition touch screens highlighting Chicago’s history and facts about its nine neighborhoods. An app is available for interactive learning that you can download before you arrive to use during your visit.

Skydeck Activities

Skydeck features occasional fitness classes and festive antenna lighting events to coincide with special holidays like Memorial Day. Through seven curated areas, the new 30,000-square-foot museum highlights Chicago’s neighborhoods, history, and local culture.

There are interactive displays, exhibits and engaging activities for kids, including fact sheets, coloring pages, and scavenger hunts. The observatory level area does have a time limit for some of the activities on the level.

How much does it cost?

Here is the current pricing for these two observation decks as of May 2025.

360 CHICAGO Pricing:

Ages 12 & up: Starting at $30.

• Includes timed entry with a skip-the-ticket desk line for one price regardless of day, time or season.
• You can stay as long as you want.
• Includes access to CloudBar.

Child (3-11): Starting at $20. Includes all the above.

Children under 3: Free

Additional tickets are available for a TILT ticket, or a Sip & View (includes a drink) or Sip, TILT, & View ticket. Each ticket includes the general admission.

Buy a Chicago City Pass and get 49% off your 360 CHICAGO Admission ticket and tickets to four more top Chicago attractions. It's valid for 9 days with instant access on mobile.

Skydeck Pricing:

Ages 12 & up: From $32-$44. Prices vary based on date, time, and season, including general admission and access to The Ledge.

Child (3-11): From $24-$36

Expedited entry: From $45-64 per person for expedited entry, timed entry with the express line to elevators

Kids under 3: Free

At Skydeck, you can also buy a Chicago City Pass and use the discount on your Skydeck admission ticket as well as four other top attractions

Which is Better, 360 Chicago or Skydeck?

The best way to evaluate value is to research the options for yourself and read reviews from past guests. Draw your own conclusions based on your preferences and what you define as good value. What's clear is guests agree, the view from either observation deck is fantastic!

“360 Chicago personally. Plus in a better area for tourists,” said Reddit user Midwestconvert47.

FAQs: 360 Chicago and Willis Tower Skydeck

Is 360 CHICAGO in the John Hancock Center?

Yes. 360 CHICAGO's observation deck is on the 94th floor of 875 N Michigan Avenue, the building long known as the John Hancock Center.

Which is taller, 360 CHICAGO or Skydeck?

Skydeck, at Willis Tower, is taller — its deck sits at 1,353 feet on the 103rd floor, versus 360 CHICAGO's 1,030 feet on the 94th floor of 875 N Michigan Avenue.

Is 360 CHICAGO or Skydeck more affordable?

General admission to 360 CHICAGO is less expensive: adult admission starts at $30 online versus Skydeck's $32, and child admission starts at $20 versus $24.