What is that black building in the Chicago skyline? That's 360 CHICAGO's location, on the 94th floor of 875 N Michigan Avenue, the building formerly known as the Hancock Building. 1,030 feet above the Magnificent Mile, you will feel like you are in the heart of the city with Chicago Skyline views 360 degrees around with changing views due to the proximity to Lake Michigan. On a clear day, you can see as far as other parts of Illinois and our neighboring states of Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan.
360 is ideal if you are staying around Michigan Avenue, for example if you are North of the River, down near Navy Pier, or on the Magnificent Mile. In addition, 360 CHICAGO has easy transit access and is close to shops and restaurants.
Skydeck's location is on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, on Wacker Avenue, with an entrance on Jackson Boulevard. Willis Tower is the tallest building in Chicago at 1,353 feet high. You can experience 360 views of the city from a different perspective than 360 CHICAGO. You'll see the city at a height as you experience from a plane, 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, it is an ideal location if you are staying on or near Wacker Drive. This area also has easy transit access and many shops and restaurants.
Some of our guests who have visited both towers say, "Once you are at the top of any Chicago Observation deck, it's just high! The difference in feet isn't noticeable.
360 CHICAGO offers stadium seating for sunset viewing on the west side.
360 CHICAGO TILTTILT is Chicago’s highest thrill ride it allows guests to grab onto the handlebars, lean forward, and hold their breath as the glass tilts to move 8 people 1,030 feet over Michigan Avenue. Guests actively participate in experiencing the movement and views from the glass.
Skydeck The LedgeThe 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.
This answer is it's really up to you! It depends on what you like to do and what you are interested in.
For a major attraction, 360 CHICAGO has a relaxed vibe, it includes a lot of seating, so you don’t feel rushed, and you can take your time. Your ticket allows you to stay as long as you like. With a general admission ticket, visitors have access to CloudBar- the highest bar in Chicago, to absorb the magnificent views and order snacks and drinks (alc. or non-alc). It's open day and night for all ages.
There are weekly events, including Yoga, and regular rotating art exhibits. The observation deck is a popular location for photographers because they have the space for tripods, that you can bring and set up any time of day or night.
On the ground floor, there is a new multi-media concourse with videos, stories and models highlighting Chicago (and the John Hancock Tower) history and facts. A downloadable app is available for interactive learning that you can use during or after your visit.
Skydeck features regular fitness events and interesting antenna lighting events on a regular basis.
There are lots of interactive displays, exhibits and engaging activities for kids, such as fact sheets, coloring pages, and scavenger hunts. The observatory level area does have a time limit for some of the activities on the level.
Justin on Google said, "There are many fun stations to take pictures and many interactive and informative facts on the wall. Our kids were entertained."
A Reddit guest said: "Skydeck recently updated their museum area, and it's pretty cool."
Here is the current pricing for these two observation decks as of April 2024.
Adult 12 & up - starting at $30 - includes timed entry with a skip-the-ticket desk line for one price regardless of day, time or season and you can stay as long as you want, as well as access to CloudBar.
Child (3-11) - starting at $20 -and includes all the above.
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.
Children under 3 are free
Buy a Chicago City Pass and get 48% off your 360 Chicago Admission ticket, including four more top Chicago attractions. It's valid for 9 days with instant access on mobile.
Adult (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 - are 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.
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 both observation decks is fantastic!
Learn more about 360 CHICAGO here
Learn more about Skydeck here.
Regardless of the observation tower you choose, enjoy the views and your time in Chicago!
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