Visiting 360 CHICAGO With Kids: Tips, TILT, and Family-Friendly Fun.

Planning a Chicago trip with kids and wondering if 360 CHICAGO belongs on your list? Absolutely!

Sitting 94 floors above the city on North Michigan Avenue, 360 CHICAGO combines unbeatable sky-high views, an optional thrill experience, and an indoor, weather-proof setting that works for toddlers, grade-schoolers, and teens alike. Plus in the multi-media 360 CHICAGO Concourse, your family can learn cool facts about Chicago’s history and the construction of the John Hancock Building. This isn't just a great view; it’s one of the best indoor things to do in Chicago with kids, especially when the forecast is cold, rainy, or just plain unpredictable.

Below, we cover everything you need to know about visiting 360 CHICAGO with your family, including TILT details, stroller and snack policies, timing tips, and age-specific advice.

What Is 360 CHICAGO? (A Kid-Friendly Overview)

A Sky-High Observation Deck That’s Fun for All Ages

360 CHICAGO is an observation deck on the 94th floor of 875 N. Michigan Avenue (the former John Hancock Center), right off the Magnificent Mile. A high-speed elevator whisks you and your crew up 1,000 feet in under a minute, where you step out into 360-degree, floor-to-ceiling views of the city and Lake Michigan.

Your kids don’t need to be architecture buffs to love this place. They’ll be captivated by:

• Watching tiny cars and boats move below
• Finding your hotel or favorite Chicago attractions from above
• Seeing how the city stretches out to the horizon in every direction

There’s no time limit once you’re on the deck, so you can explore at your family’s pace.

TILT: Chicago’s Highest Thrill

TILT is 360 CHICAGO’s signature attraction: a set of eight glass windows that slowly lean outward over the city, 1,030 feet above the sidewalks below. Riders stand at the window, hold onto handles, and feel the platform gently tilt forward until they’re looking almost straight down at E. Chestnut Street.

Key Points for Parents:

• Height Requirement: Kids must be at least 42" tall to experience TILT.
• Optional Upgrade: TILT is an optional upgrade on top of general admission. You can buy a combo ticket online or decide to add TILT onsite, subject to availability.
• Duration: The experience lasts roughly two minutes from start to finish.

For many kids, TILT is the highlight of the trip. Others are happier just watching. Either way, you can decide as a family after you see it in action.

Learn more about TILT so you can set expectations with nervous riders.

CloudBar: Snacks, Drinks, and a Place to Unwind.

CloudBar is the on-deck bar and lounge space, open to all observation deck guests. It serves locally inspired snacks, soft drinks, mocktails, and cocktails, all enjoyed with those incredible floor-to-ceiling window views.

For families, CloudBar is a lifesaver because:

• You can grab a seat while the kids keep exploring nearby windows.
• They offer kid-friendly options like soft drinks, juices, and tasty snacks.
• It’s an easy spot to regroup if little legs need a break.

Kids are welcome in the space with an adult.

Is 360 CHICAGO Good for Kids?

Short answer: yes. But what they get out of it will look different at each age. Here’s how to think about it for your family.

Toddlers & Preschoolers

• What they’ll enjoy: The elevator ride itself (it’s fast, smooth, and exciting!), and big windows they can press up against (with your supervision) to spot cars, buses, and boats far below.
• Things to consider: The deck is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Weekends and sunset hours can be busy. If your little one is crowd-sensitive, aim for morning or early afternoon on a weekday. And one golden rule: try to avoid scheduling your elevator ride for right when you’d normally be chasing a nap. A cranky toddler at 94 floors is no one’s favorite memory.

TILT is usually better for older kids, but if your child meets the 42" requirement and seems excited, you can always watch a cycle or two and decide together.

Grade-School Kids (5–12)

This is the sweet spot for 360 CHICAGO!

• What they’ll enjoy: The feeling of being “on top of the world,” using the web app or signage to identify landmarks, taking cool photos, experiencing the multi-media Concourse and of course, TILT, if they're tall enough and comfortable with heights.
• Pro Tip: Gamify the visit! Try prompts like, “Find the stadium,” “Find the lakefront trail,” or “Can you spot our hotel?”
• Things to consider: To gauge TILT comfort level, watch a few rides as a family. Many kids feel braver once they see other people coming off the ride smiling. Outside food isn’t allowed on the observation deck, but CloudBar offers snacks and drinks; sealed water bottles are generally fine.

Teens

For teens, 360 CHICAGO is part thrill, part social media content studio.

• What they’ll enjoy: Skyline and lake views that are social-media gold, TILT (for some bragging rights), and chill time at CloudBar with a soda or mocktail while they scroll through their photos.
• Things to consider: Most families spend 60–90 minutes here, so it slots in well as a late-afternoon or pre-dinner stop before tackling the rest of their packed agenda. Since you’re right on the Magnificent Mile, it’s easy to combine a visit with shopping, a stroll down to Navy Pier, or a visit to a nearby museum.

Practical Logistics for Families

Getting to 360 CHICAGO With Kids

360 CHICAGO is located at 875 N. Michigan Avenue, right in the heart of the Magnificent Mile.

Options:

• Driving: If you’re driving in, there is a parking garage connected to the building (875 North Michigan Avenue parking garage). You can use SpotHero to secure your spot ahead of time.
• On Foot: If you’re staying downtown (River North, Streeterville, the Loop), you can likely walk.
• Transit: Several CTA bus routes serve Michigan Avenue.
• Rideshare: Often the simplest option with kids and strollers—ask to be dropped near the building’s main entrance.

Strollers, Bags, and Security.

The good news is 360 CHICAGO is stroller-friendly. Elevators and ramps are designed to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, and staff are used to helping families navigate.

• Stroller Strategy: A lightweight stroller is easiest to maneuver through the elevators and around the deck.
• Bags: Larger bags and backpacks may be inspected on entry, so try to pack light.

If you have questions about specific mobility needs, please check the accessibility page.

Food, Snacks, and Sippy Cups.

No outside food or drinks are allowed on the observation deck, with the exception of sealed water bottles.

• In Practice: Feed kids a meal or snack before you ride up, and plan to rely on CloudBar for on-deck refreshments.
• Medical/Allergy Needs: If you have specific medical or allergy considerations, you’ll want to confirm the latest policy directly with 360 CHICAGO before your visit.

Restrooms, Nursing, and Quiet Spaces

Standard restrooms are available on the observation deck.

• Nursing Parents: While there isn’t a dedicated nursing lounge publicly listed, many parents opt for a quiet corner or time their visit accordingly. If you need a more private setup, ask staff on-site who may be able to help you find a less busy area.
• Sensory Needs: 360 CHICAGO has partnered with KultureCity® to better support guests with sensory needs, which may include staff training, signage, and access to sensory tools.

360 CHICAGO Kid-Friendly FAQs

What’s the best age to visit 360 CHICAGO with kids?

Kids of almost any age can enjoy the observation deck, especially the elevator ride and the windows. However, grade-schoolers and teens tend to get the most out of the full experience, including TILT (if they meet the height requirement).

Is TILT safe for kids?

Absolutely. TILT is inspected regularly and must meet strict safety standards, and according to 360 CHICAGO, there has never been a safety issue. Kids must be 42" or taller to ride. If you or your child are nervous, you can watch the ride cycles before deciding whether they are ready to join.

How long should we plan to stay with kids?

Most families spend about 1–2 hours at 360 CHICAGO, including time to explore the views, ride TILT (if you choose), and relax at CloudBar. A 90-minute block plus transit time is a safe bet when building your itinerary.

Can we bring a stroller?

Yes. Elevators and ramps are designed to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, and many families visit with little ones in strollers.

What if my child is afraid of heights?

Heights can be intimidating at 94 floors up, and that’s totally okay. A few tips:

• Start by exploring windows farther from the corners, where the view feels less extreme.
• Reassure them that they can enjoy the deck without going on TILT. The experience is completely optional.
• Consider a daytime visit, when the city feels a bit less “dramatic” than at night.

Make 360 CHICAGO Part of Your Family’s Chicago Story

From toddlers pressing their noses to the glass to teens conquering TILT, 360 CHICAGO gives families a memorable, weather-proof way to see the city from a completely different angle. It’s central, stroller-friendly, and easy to combine with other Chicago kids’ activities and teen-friendly plans.

When you’re ready to add a sky-high memory to your itinerary, book your visit and see Chicago the way your kids will remember it—sprawling out beneath their feet.

Plan your visit today!

Like this Article? Pin it for later!

Save