Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
4.5
Points of Interest & LandmarksArchitectural BuildingsObservation Decks & Towers
9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
About
Skydeck Chicago is the breathtaking, thrilling observatory atop the iconic Willis Tower. The highest observation deck in the United States, Skydeck provides views of the city spanning up to four states and 50 miles on a clear day. Skydeck features The Ledge; five glass floor balconies extending 4.3 feet from Willis Tower and made up of three layers of half-inch thick glass laminated into one seamless unit. After an extensive transformation, Skydeck offers a can’t miss, one-stop attraction to discover and see all that the city of Chicago offers from an incomparable vantage point. The revamped attraction features a brand-new, lower-level, museum-like interactive experience that celebrates the unique personality, history, neighborhoods, and sites of Chicago.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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from ₹3,696.11
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Top ways to experience Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Downtown / The Loop
Often visitors' first stop in Chicago, The Loop is a good starting point to sample the city's energy and flavor. This central business district boasts Michelin-rated restaurants, upscale hotels, premier shopping, and enough arresting architecture to keep your camera busy for hours. You won’t find too many photo galleries of downtown Chicago without a shot of Millennium Park and Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. A stunning skyline coupled with cultural attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago present a Downtown where work and play peacefully coexist.
How to get there
- Quincy • 3 min walk
- Chicago Union Station • 5 min walk
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See what travellers are saying
- Charleen D4 contributions4 out of 5The only downfall to the Expedited Tickets is you don't get to read about the tower/information as that is all for general admission. Though I still recommend them as long lines otherwise though they moved quickly. For the pictures you have 1 minutes in the box. We went back several times as it is to short of a period. Also some pictures on the website of Skydeck and poses, such as someone in another box taking a photo of you was not allowed.I really did enjoy my time at Skydeck, nice views even for 7:30pm. I caught a bit of the sunset.Thank you for visiting Skydeck Chicago and for writing a review. It’s great to hear that you enjoyed the panoramic view of Chicago and the benefits of our Expedited ticket. For future reference you are able to experience the museum and then utilize the expedited lane for the elevator. We appreciate your kind review.Written 16 March 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 14 March 2023
- _S1278FYIsrael42 contributionsNiceThe museum below the ascent to the observation deck is impressive. The view is nice (after views in Manhattan every view is less impressive). What annoyed me personally was that I wanted to take a picture on the transparent balcony and the staff was quick to wave me aside and allow those who pay money to take a picture a bit cheeky in my opinion. I bought a ticket at a very expensive price close to 50 dollars. I told the clerk that the online purchase costs almost half. So she said right it depends on when they come. When I asked when I could enter at the price listed on your website, she said she didn't know. Price should be fixed and not change according to the day or time. robberyThank you for visiting Skydeck Chicago! It is terrific to hear that you found our one-stop Chicago museum experience to be impressive. It is wonderful to hear that you found our 360° views of Chicago to be nice. Guests can spend 60-90 seconds on the Ledge depending on the group size. You are welcome to get back in line after you step out on the Ledge. Please contact Anita Vigil, our Director of Operations, at avigil@theskydeck.com to further discuss your visit.Written 2 May 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 28 April 2023
- Josue CNew Haven, Connecticut505 contributionsChicago from 1,000 Feet!!!What a better way to see to Chicago than over 1000 feet from street level, seeing as far as the eye can see, and Skydeck Chicago offers some of the best views. There are map displays showing famous locations around the city, and a little of Chicago culture, but it's view that just leaves you at awe. There are glass box ledges that stick out over the side of the building giving you a view straight down, under your feet. The entrance fee was close $40, a bit pricey but you can add it on the City Pass, making it well worth it. Overall, Skydeck Chicago is a great place to spend an hour, and take ton of photos, and enjoy the view.Thank you for visiting us at Skydeck Chicago! We are glad to hear that you enjoyed the best panoramic views from our 103rd floor. It is great that you were courageous enough to step out onto The Ledge and hover 1,353 feet above the streets of Chicago! We appreciate that you took the time to write a review.Written 4 May 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited September 2022Written 2 May 2023
- Susan AAtlanta, Georgia249 contributionsNot enough time!While in Chicago we had to do the tourist thing and got out on "The Ledge". While the views were amazing the high ticket cost for 60 seconds (for two people) out on the platform was high for what you receive. You weren't able to enjoy the view without being rushed to get your own pictures made before the timer went off. Glad we were able to experience it, just wish we could have had more time for the cost!Thank you for visiting Skydeck Chicago and for writing a review. Guests can spend 60-90 seconds on the Ledge depending on the group size. You are welcome to get back in line after you step out on the Ledge. For future reference, we suggest visiting first thing in the morning when we open to minimize your wait time—at 10 AM October through February or at 9 AM March through September. Thank you for visiting!Written 14 June 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Written 13 June 2023
- Michelle CDedham, Massachusetts20 contributionsOverrated, overly packedBefore my review I'll note that my favorite view of Chicago is free, looking back at the City from the walkways near the Adler Planetarium. Just beautiful -- the skyline makes a statement. Unless you feel an urge to see the city sprawl beneath you, save your money and check it out! We paid for the expedited tickets in order to skip the line. It was a warm day (July 4), and the attendant packed us into the hot, stuffy elevator. It was overly packed and very uncomfortable. Upon exiting, my son felt lightheaded. There is nowhere to sit, so we tucked into the gift shop area. He was fortunate we had brought water. We walked around a bit and checked out some views. There is no information provided about what you're seeing. Your visit is accompanied by a pop music soundtrack. Occasional narration about the city's architecture would be nicer. There's a lot of open space, but the areas by the windows tend to get crowded. I've been to the Empire State Building and the original observation deck at the South Tower at WTC years ago. This experience was "ok." I base my reviews on value and experience for the money, and this was just not worth the $64.We appreciate your feedback and are sorry to hear that you were disappointed with your visit please contact Anita Vigil, our Director of Operations, at avigil@theskydeck.com to further discuss your visit.Written 11 July 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Written 10 July 2023
- Bull City EatsDurham, North Carolina55 contributionsMust see sightsI’m not a fan of heights but I put my fear aside and went anyway. I’m glad I did. It was amazing to see the views, especially at night. The tickets are easy to buy at the kiosks, there is a history of Chicago display as you wind your way up to the Skyview area. The lines weren’t too bad, but we didn’t go until after 8pm. There are gift shops obviously to buy nice mementos. There’s also an opportunity to have your picture taken by staff and purchase them before you leave. In addition the building itself has other shops and places to eat, on the 4th floor there is an outside terrace to sit and there was live music the night we went. Over all it was a lot of fun, a great experience for the kids, and something we can check off our bucket list.We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your visit to Skydeck Chicago. It is great that you were courageous enough to step out onto The Ledge and hover 1,353 feet above the streets of Chicago! We appreciate that you took the time to write a review.Written 20 July 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 14 July 2023
- Mark G38 contributionsOverpricedThe views of Chicago from a height of almost 1500 feet really are breathtaking, but $45 for this is really outrageous. You really are paying just for an elevator up and back down again. Most tourists seem to come only for the gimmicky "Ledge", which is a set of small glass platforms upon which you can stay for 1-2 minutes for photo opportunities. This really doesn't justify the rip-off price.We appreciate your feedback and are sorry to hear that you were disappointed with your visit please contact Anita Vigil, our Director of Operations, at avigil@theskydeck.com to further discuss your visit.Written 4 August 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2023Written 30 July 2023
- Karen I4 contributionsKind of expensive but a unique experienceThe day we went seemed kind of busy but the operation was pretty streamlined so it really wasn't rushed or inconvenient. We purchased our tickets there but had to wait an hour for our time so if you want to make use of every moment in Chicago, purchase your tickets in advance. They definitely pack you into the elevator to get to the top so just let your claustrophobic friend or family member take some Ashwagandha or something to help them chill a little because it's definitely worth it.Thank you very much for visiting us and for your rating! We are glad that you enjoyed your experience at Skydeck Chicago.Written 4 August 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited August 2023Written 2 August 2023
- ktkadishBoston, Massachusetts90 contributionsNo need to do this twiceYour timed entrance experience begins with a professional photo where you are handed a barcode to collect the picture upon exit at the gift shop. Tourists continue through an immersive history and cultural guide of Chicago (and history and feats of the Willis Tower) before boarding the elevator up to floor 103. Even though guests are packed in like sardines, videoboards highlight your current elevation while comparing the height to structures worldwide. Upon reaching the SkyDeck, guests have floor to ceiling views to the South, East, and North. Each direction has maps and points of interest which help orientate your view. The West facing view has the four ledges. Here you queue again and wait for a 90 second period to be on a ledge. Each ledge has an employee for tracking time and taking another picture to pickup at the conclusion. Other guests make it a spectacle, posing and laying down for "the ultimate shot" - instead of appreciating the engineering marvel. More disappointing was that our family of three was grouped with another family of three for our ledge time, despite multiple other parties of one or two having an exclusive time (which remained unexplained). Signs do point to the time limit, even suggesting guests may wait to get on the ledge again. After the ledge, lines bring you to queue for the elevator back down. This is a one time experience, don't believe it is worth a second visit - unless included in a package like the Chicago CityPASS.Thank you for visiting Skydeck Chicago and for writing a review. Guests can spend 60-90 seconds on the Ledge depending on the group size. You are welcome to get back in line after you step out on the Ledge. For future reference, we suggest visiting first thing in the morning when we open to minimize your wait time—at 10 AM October through February or at 9 AM March through September. We are sorry to see that you were disappointed with your visit please contact Anita Vigil, our Director of Operations, at avigil@theskydeck.com to further discuss your visit.Written 3 October 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 1 October 2023
- Dorothy MIncline Village, Nevada203 contributionsBird’s-eye view of ChicagoThe initial entry into the building is a little poorly marked for the SkyDeck. You go down to go up. We went on a cloudy day but they showed us the camera view from the top and were willing to change our reservation. You need a reserved time entry. It is not a glass elevator, for those who aren’t fond of heights. Of course, the views are exceptional and the Glass Ledge was fun. You have to have the usual cheesy photos taken at 2 points.Thank you for visiting us at the Skydeck! It is fantastic to hear that your experience at the Skydeck was exceptional. We are happy that you were able to take pictures hovering 1,353 feet above the streets of Chicago on The Ledge! We appreciate your review.Written 12 October 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 10 October 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
17,863 reviews
Excellent
9,844
Very good
5,274
Average
1,860
Poor
490
Terrible
398
Daniel C
3 contributions
Dec 2023 • Solo
Very enjoyable and informative tour the tour guide Alan was every pleasant and friendly always interacting with everyone one the tour and interested in what people were talking about
Written 8 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brandon
Pittsburgh, PA463 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
This attraction is amazing to get a 360 view of the city. The ledge is an exciting experience that lets you stand over the city and get a picture of you above the clouds. Definitely get the city pass because it gets you into the expedited entry and lets you skip the line.
Written 26 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so happy to hear that you found the panoramic view from the Skydeck to be amazing and that you were brave enough to step out on The Ledge! Thank you very much for visiting Skydeck Chicago and for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LaurenSCO
Scotland, UK48 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
We visited at 9am on a Wednesday, it was quite quiet and we got up to the 103rd floor very quickly!
We had expedited entry which I would recommend. The staff were all lovely! So friendly and helpful. There was no wait for the ledge and the staff allowed us to spend as much time there as we wanted! We were not rushed at all.
The views are amazing and the whole experience is worth every penny! Would highly recommend if in Chicago!
We had expedited entry which I would recommend. The staff were all lovely! So friendly and helpful. There was no wait for the ledge and the staff allowed us to spend as much time there as we wanted! We were not rushed at all.
The views are amazing and the whole experience is worth every penny! Would highly recommend if in Chicago!
Written 22 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so happy to hear that your experience at the Skydeck was amazing and a must see! We appreciate the positive feedback on our team. Thank you very much for visiting Skydeck Chicago and for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joe C
Birmingham, UK969 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
This was always a bucket list of ours to do, and we decided to pre-book (which is essential!) and decided to go an hour before sunset. This would allow us to see the transition from day, sunset through to night. We got to the tower early and spent some time exploring the gift shop whilst waiting for our slot. Once our slot was called, there was then a 20min exhibition of how the Willis Tower was built which was interesting, before we boarded the elevator. The view from the top is spectacular, but even more so during sunset. We would highly recommend you go at this time! There is a long queue (at least 30mins) to get into the glass box, so be prepared to wait in line for this, it is included in your ticket price and well worth doing if you aren’t too scared of heights! The only disappointment was that once at the top, there was no bar, or anywhere to buy a drink or snack, this could really be a good idea! Overall, we loved our trip to the top, and would highly recommend you do this when in Chicago!
Written 21 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for visiting Skydeck Chicago. We are glad you found the Skydeck to be incredible and that you enjoyed your experience. We encourage you to share your photos with us on Instagram and on our Facebook page! We appreciate your kind review.
Written 28 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Wayne
Tokoroa, New Zealand103 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
The entry to this has quite a few cool things to walk through. The tower is quite fast to get up, you get a good look around and then head down
Written 20 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting Skydeck Chicago! It is terrific to hear that you found our one-stop Chicago experience to be cool. We encourage you to share your photos with us on Instagram and on our Facebook page! We appreciate your review and thank you very much for visiting Skydeck Chicago.
Written 21 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Trip606325
1 contribution
It was fun going out in the deck, but I was surprised at all the information panels leading up to the elevator and on the sky deck floor. They provided a lot of interesting historical information about Chicago. Just wish I would have had more time to really absorb it all
Written 19 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so happy that your experience at Skydeck Chicago was great and you were able to face your fear of heights. Thank you very much for visiting us and for your rating!
Written 20 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sarah F
Knoxville, TN6 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Wow! What a FANTASTIC way to see the city! We went for a night view and it did not disappoint! I’d like to go back to catch the view in daylight.
Written 14 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so happy that your experience at Skydeck Chicago was great. We agree the night view does not disappoint. Thank you very much for visiting us and for your rating!
Written 16 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cheryl J
Indianapolis, IN529 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Really well done. Lots of signage and lots of available clean restrooms. Plenty to see and read on your way to the elevators. Well organized. They will even take pictures with your phone! Felt like we had plenty of time on the actual ledge! A MUST DO when in Chicago.
Written 13 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for visiting us and for your rating! We are glad that you enjoyed your experience at Skydeck Chicago.
Written 16 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Karsca01
Forfar, UK32 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Thought the downstairs part was something you should do early in your trip to Chicago . We were lucky to have a clear day with views for miles. Spectacular !
Written 30 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for visiting us and for your rating! We are glad that you enjoyed your experience at Skydeck Chicago.
Written 1 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mrjobs2016
Peabody, MA239 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Four of us went in together. We all enjoyed it. I encouraged our party to move quickly through the exhibit that everyone goes through before going up to the Skydeck. The exhibit was good, but I wanted to pretty much keep moving so as to get to the top. It might have been helpful to have an idea how long it would take before we could go up the elevator. Maybe we would have spent a little more time at the exhibit.
The day was clear, just slightly hazy, so views were excellent. I was surpised I could see Midway Airport so easily. The Ledge was cool. Although it seemed some people were allowed a lot more time out there than others.
The day was clear, just slightly hazy, so views were excellent. I was surpised I could see Midway Airport so easily. The Ledge was cool. Although it seemed some people were allowed a lot more time out there than others.
Written 26 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so happy to hear that you found the panoramic view from the Skydeck to be excellent and that you were brave enough to step out on The Ledge! Thank you very much for visiting Skydeck Chicago and for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.
Written 30 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nightstar22
McMinnville, TN250 contributions
I know there is a active duty discount, but is there a veteran or disabled veteran discount?
Luisa m
Rome, Italy71 contributions
Hi! I don’t know. Have you checked on their web site?
Do I need I’d to visit Willis tower
Josue C
New Haven, CT505 contributions
No you just need to buy the ticket.
Can I use my timed ticket at a time later in the day?
307leven
Stroudsburg, PA284 contributions
I asked that question when I purchased our tickets from City pass because I was concerned about bad weather or fog obstructing our views during our timed visit. Not sure where you purchased your tickets from, but I was advised from staff at City pass that if we needed to change our time to call them to request a time change later in the week since we were only in town for 6 days. Fortunately, we had good weather during our visit and we didn't have to call them to reschedule.
Do you need to be vaccinated in order to go on the top of Willis tower. Thank you
Love2travelhere
San Diego, CA102 contributions
We were not asked for any proof of vaccination or test status at the beginning of December. Masks required.
Does anyone know if there are any Covid restrictions for Willis tower. Thank you
mavarick2018
Tacoma, WA82 contributions
They are requiring masks and social distancing but I don't think they are checking for vaccinations at this time. You can go to the sky deck website to keep up with changes. Also note if you are visiting the city there are other establishments that have modified hours and are checking for vaccinations. If you don't want to miss anything bring proof with you so as not to be turned away.
mattddchitown
Gary, IN
I'm getting the Co City Pass, will it be hard to get in SkyDeck in the evening on weekdays?
Our sky deck time is after check out at our hotel, is there a place to check our luggage before we do the sky walk?
Is there a place to check your carry on luggage since we have to check out of our hotel before our sky deck time?
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Frequently Asked Questions about Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
- Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost ₹ 3,667.89, while a popular guided tour starts around ₹ 2,250.75 per person.
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower:
- Skydeck Chicago Admission Ticket (From ₹ 3,667.89)
- Go City: Chicago Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 Attractions (From ₹ 6,585.53)
- Chicago Architecture River Cruise (From ₹ 3,917.97)
- Chicago CityPASS (From ₹ 11,170.39)
- 90-Minute Chicago River Architecture Tour (From ₹ 3,501.17)
- Hotels near Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower:
- (0.09 km) Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop
- (0.09 km) Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Central Loop
- (0.25 km) JW Marriott Chicago
- (0.27 km) W Chicago - City Center
- (0.32 km) La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chicago Downtown
- Restaurants near Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower:
- (0.00 km) Starbucks
- (0.00 km) Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- (0.00 km) Dunkin' Donuts
- (0.00 km) Corner Bakery Cafe
- (0.00 km) Market Creations Cafe
- Attractions near Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower:
- (0.09 km) L Stop Tours
- (0.23 km) Chicago Riverwalk
- (0.08 km) Spearfish Creek Fly Shop
- (0.29 km) Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
- (0.19 km) Chicago En Francais