Stand on a glass balcony 1,353 feet above Chicago and scan the city from the Willis Tower Skydeck. This experience pairs a high-elevation view with a new interactive Chicago Experience gallery — ideal for families and first-time visitors.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into a glass box 1,353 feet above the streets and the city exhales beneath you — a grid of streets, the ribbon of the Chicago River, and Lake Michigan pressing a bright edge to the horizon.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30–90 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and short walking on elevators and exhibits
Wildlife
History
Completed in the early 1970s as Sears Tower, the building rebranded as Willis Tower in 2009 and for decades held the title of the world’s tallest structure; its bundled-tube design enabled the record-setting height.
Conservation
The tower and visitor operations promote public-transit access and onsite waste management; visitors are encouraged to use transit and minimize single-use plastics while touring.
Reserve your spot on the Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early or late
Peak mid-day waits can be long; early morning or just before sunset typically shortens lines and improves light for photos.
Use the Jackson Street entrance
Bypass the ticket booth after security and head directly to the ticket taker to save time.
Mind the glass
The Ledge is monitored and may close during high winds or precipitation — check real-time conditions before scheduling around sunset.
Accessibility planning
The Skydeck is wheelchair accessible but bring ID for any special access needs and plan for security screening.
Comfortable shoes
You’ll stand and walk through exhibits and queues; good shoes keep you comfortable.
Camera or smartphone
Essential for capturing long-range vistas and the Ledge experience.
Light jacket
Evenings on high floors can feel cooler — a light layer helps for sunset visits.
fall
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Bright sun and reflections off glass make eye protection useful on sunny days.
summer