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Skydeck Chicago Reviews, Awards, and More

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#5 of 793 things to do in Chicago

Willis Tower’s dazzling height is even more breathtaking when experienced from the 103rd-floor windows of the Skydeck observatory and the Ledge, which extends more than four feet from the side of the building, allowing visitors the opportunity to walk out among the clouds at 1,353 feet above the street.

Skydeck offers an unforgettable view of the Windy City from 1,353 feet in the air, but you shouldn’t just take our word for it: Skydeck Chicago’s reviews attest to the unforgettable nature of the experience. Just take a look at what our visitors have said and some of the accolades the experience has earned, then buy your own ticket or contact us with any questions.

Review from Google
Such an amazing experience. Super friendly staff and the way it’s all put together is fascinating. It’s more than just the sky deck! There’s lot of tourist information, facts & decor in there. Highly recommended!
Review from Google
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Breathtaking Views of Chicago – An Unforgettable Experience!

Visiting Chicago from Miami, I had the opportunity to experience Skydeck Chicago at the iconic Willis Tower, and it was absolutely amazing!

Having traveled to many cities and visited several observation decks, I was genuinely impressed by the spectacular panoramic views from the 103rd floor. Seeing Chicago’s magnificent architecture, impressive skyline, the Chicago River, and beautiful Lake Michigan from such an incredible height is truly unforgettable.

One of the highlights is The Ledge, where glass balconies extend outside the building, allowing you to look straight down at the city more than 1,300 feet below. It’s a thrilling experience and an incredible opportunity for some unforgettable photographs!

I also appreciated the exhibitions showcasing Chicago’s history, culture, and architectural achievements. They add an educational dimension that makes the experience much more than simply enjoying the views.

One thing I did miss was having a full bar at the observation deck. I also visited 360 CHICAGO, which offers a bar where visitors can relax, enjoy a drink, and admire the skyline. Having something similar at Skydeck would make an already extraordinary experience even better, especially for those who want to spend more time enjoying the scenery.

That being said, this is a minor observation and certainly doesn’t take away from how spectacular Skydeck is.

My recommendation: If you’re visiting Chicago, experience both Skydeck and 360 CHICAGO if you have the opportunity. Each offers a unique perspective of this beautiful city.

Five stars! A remarkable attraction, breathtaking views, and an absolute must-visit when exploring Chicago!
Review from Google
The Ledge is truly an awesome experience and a great photo opportunity. My kid (6 yo) loved it. We got the expedite acces with City Pass and although in October it wasn’t busy in the morning at 9 AM, we could go to the ledge as many times as we wanted (you only get 60 seconds each time) because there wasn’t anyone at the expedite queue (there were about 30 people at the regular queue).
Review from Google
103 stories up… yeah, we were a little nervous! 😂

This was our first time visiting Chicago, and this was one of the experiences my family absolutely wanted to check off the list. It did not disappoint!

The height definitely had us trembling at first, but once we got past the nerves, we had an incredible time. What an awesome way to experience Chicago!

Highly recommend adding this to your list, whether you’re a local or visiting Chicago for the first time! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review from Google
It was very nice both inside and looking outside. Looking out at the city was my favorite part. You have to go through this museum explaining certain things and history about Chicago. Highly recommend!
Review from Google
This has always been a place I wanted to visit in Chicago. I’ve always seen it on TV, and saw the photos of people viewing it on Instagram. I got to visit this past May, and it was incredible. The museum in the tower is basically a walk-through Chicago. There’s a model subway, an enormous pizza, and so much more to see. You can literally go through that entire museum and go “I’ve been to Chicago” when you haven’t even scratched the surface of the city.
This sky deck is so amazing. You see up to four states by just standing up there. It is truly an unforgettable, unreal experience. It’s a 360 view, so you can walk to any part of the deck to see out. And when you walk outwards into the glass box, it is unbelievable. 10 out of 10 would 100% recommend.
Review from Google
Great experience for all ages. Lots of history and culture about Chicago. Tons of photo opportunities. An all around good time. No real wait to get into the exhibit but there is about a 30 minute wait for The Ledge, depending on how many people there are.
Review from Google
Willis tower was once the tallest building in the world for 25 years. Top level observation floor is all windows including the ledge. The ledge are large all glass sections that portude out of the building walls. Dare to step into one of these. The sensation is incredible.

The ride on the elevator is so fast you can feel your ears pop on the way up. I say that it is worth the money for all there is to experience if you have never been up on the observation deck.

Plenty of views to go around to take all the photos you want. The fact is the Willis tower is so tall, the other buildings look short looking down on them. There is an unobstructed view all around.

Highly recommend everyone go and see. Experience it even if just once in a life time. Make it one of your life buckets.
Review from Google
One of the best experience in Chicago.
Skydeck Chicago is a must visit.

The view is just woww, and the open viewpoint is just amazing.
Best point to witness golden hour and lake michigan.

Skydeck chicago has good number of restaurants at lower levels. Good seating place to chill.

I would recommend buying tickets in advance and if you are visiting for the first time its better to buy city pass because you can get express entry to elevators.

Online Reviews

Today Show (Online) 

Check out these film-inspired travel ideas for a blockbuster vacation

Trip Advisor (Online)

2 days in Chicago: The perfect itinerary – Tripadvisor

Travel + Leisure (Online)

40 Best Things to Do in Chicago

The Most Thrilling Observation Deck in Chicago Just Got a Makeover

WGN Chicago (Broadcast)

WGN Daytime Chicago: Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower

Revamped Skydeck Chicago has Interactive Museum, one-of-a-kind photo spots

INSIDER (Online)

35 of the most beautiful places in the US

RedFin (Online)

12 Fun Facts About Chicago: How Well Do You Know Your City?

TimeOut

The most spectacular views in the US, according to TripAdvisor

ABC 7 Chicago

Staycation: Skydeck Chicago

Town & Country

The 41 Best Ways to Pass the Time in Chicago

Architect Magazine

The Ledge was awarded an Annual Design Review Citation from Architect magazine.

Fox News

10 stops to make on your trip around Illinois

Matador Network

The 10 Best Places to Watch Chicago’s Spectacular Sunsets

TODAY

Chicago travel guide: Hot dogs, beaches, art, and more to see and do

Chicago Tribune

Willis Tower’s renovated Skydeck opens Friday, offering a unique Chicago Experience for tourists and locals alike. Here’s a sneak peek

NBC Chicago

Willis Tower Skydeck Undergoes Multi-Million Dollar Renovation – And That’s Not All

Skydeck Awards

Skydeck Chicago Wins Best Social Media Marketing – Skydeck Becomes Chicago’s Biggest
Cheerleader Gov. Pritzker Addresses Tourism Professionals at Illinois Governor’s Conference on
Travel & Tourism | Illinois Office of Tourism Media Center (enjoyillinois.com)

2023 Travelers’ Choice Award – TripAdvisor

Street to Sky Transformation – Illinois Office of Tourism Celebrates Tourism Industry
Achievements with Excellence in Tourism Awards (2022)

Highest-rated Things to do in Chicago, according to Tripadvisor – WGN

Tiqets Awards Skydeck Chicago the Best Remarkable Venue Awards for Best Landmark in the USA – Tiqets

2022 Travelers’ Choice Award – TripAdvisor

Trip Advisor: 2019 Certificate of Excellence

Juror’s Favorite Award – Structural Engineers Association of Illinois

Best Media Relations Initiative Award – Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism

American Architecture Award – Divine Detail Award, Honor Award

Bronze Quill Award of Excellence – International Association of Business Communicators

Holidays @ Skydeck

November 13th – January 4th

Join us for a full calendar of holiday festivities at Skydeck and make this season unforgettable from the highest attraction in Chicago.

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