Rising high above the Chicago skyline, the Skydeck at Willis Tower offers one of the most unforgettable views in the world. Located on the 103rd floor of one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere, the Skydeck invites visitors to step into “The Ledge,” a clear glass box that extends over 1,300 feet above the city. It's a must-see attraction that delivers heart-pounding thrills and panoramic views of Chicago’s iconic cityscape.

Recommended For

The Skydeck is perfect for:

  • First-time visitors to Chicago who want a bucket-list experience.
  • Families and thrill-seekers excited to stand on The Ledge.
  • Architecture and engineering fans interested in skyscraper history.
  • Photographers capturing the city’s sweeping skyline and lake views.
  • Curious minds who enjoy interactive exhibits and city history.

History and Design

  • Originally called the Sears Tower, construction began in 1970 to house Sears’ growing corporate offices.
  • The building was renamed in 2009 for its new tenant, the global insurance firm The Willis Group.
  • The Skydeck and The Ledge were designed by renowned firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill.
  • The Ledge was inspired by thousands of visitor forehead prints on Skydeck windows—and the classic film Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

The Skydeck Experience

  • Visitors begin with museum-style exhibits that dive into Chicago’s architecture, Willis Tower’s construction, and global skyscraper comparisons.
  • Interactive displays, videos, and hands-on exhibits make the experience engaging for all ages.
  • Guests ride a multimedia elevator up to the 103rd floor in just 60 seconds!
  • On a clear day, you can see across four states and up to 50 miles in every direction.

About The Ledge

  • The Ledge consists of glass boxes extending 4.3 feet from the building at a height of 1,353 feet (442 meters).
  • Each box is made of 1,500-pound glass panels, engineered for
  • The design uses minimal visible support, offering a thrilling illusion of floating over the city.

What You’ll See

  • From The Ledge, visitors get sweeping views of Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan, and landmarks like Wrigley Field.
  • At night, the city glows below you, creating a breathtaking dollhouse effect with tiny cars and buildings.

Before You Go

  • Spend time exploring the exhibits and presentations before heading up to The Ledge.
  • Stop by the gift shop for unique Chicago souvenirs and enjoy a drink or snack at the on-site café.
  • Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the full experience.

Planning Your Visit

  • Location: The Skydeck Chicago, 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
  • Phone: 312-875-0066
  • Website: theskydeck.com

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