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Skydeck Chicago Reviews, Awards, and More

willis tower restaurant

#5 of 793 things to do in Chicago

Highest Observation Deck in US

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.

google
Pretty cool experience, first they take you through a hallway with a bunch of information about the architecture of Chicago’s buildings, food, their music, and famous people who are a big part of chicago (Barack Obama, Michael Jordan, Oprah etc), lots of information about the building! There is no wait and elevator are pretty smooth up to 103 floor! And finally, that breathtaking 360 view!
google
Super cool. Its definitely a must visit if you’ve never been to the city. Awesome views and perspective. I recommend going during the weekday. We didn’t have to wait at all and we had plenty of time to read all the information at the displays. Which is fun and educational.
Also, once at the top we were able to enjoy our time taking pictures and not having to rush. Ive been told some people wait hours, or it takes hours. Our visit from start to finish was about 45min. Got to see everything and anything we wanted.
Once your finished there’s great restaurants on the main floor, various types of food and desserts.
google
Very unique experience. There’s a small walk tour of the history of Chicago. You take an elevator to the top and then there’s diff sections for you to take pics. If you go during non busy hours they’ll let you stay in your box taking pics longer than if it was busy. We went at night and the views were still so pretty
google
A wonderful experience… we went during the off season in early February. We got right in and we were given extra time on the Skydeck platform (because noone was waitin). We timed it to watch a sunset from the 103rd floor and Mother Nature didn’t disappoint. The elevator up was fast & very smooth. Amazing views even in winter!!
google
I came here at the request of a family member who was visiting Chicago, and on a winter day with temps in the negatives, who was I to decline the suggestion? Tickets are easy to get in the off season and there was no wait to get to the observation deck. There are many photo opportunities on the way up, which I’m sure creates a line in the summer months.
The space itself is quite beautiful, providing 360 degree views of the city and lakefront.
The Tilt feature is a bit silly, I’m sure kids would have a good time with it, but as an adult, it was a novelty at most.
There are many places to get photos and for your photos to be taken.
The CloudBar was very fun! There are many themed drinks available, and the staff were helpful and friendly.
Overall it was a great experience, although definitely a tourist attraction.
google
Interesting museum. Tons of photo opportunities. Skydeck views are mesmerizing. The ledge is scary but fun. The staff are really kind, we came past the scheduled time and they simply gave us new tickets. Can get busy during weekends and public holidays.
google
Ive now been to both of the tallest public observation towers in Chicago, and both of them have their merits, however ill give this one the edge. Being able to look down at your feet and see 103 stories below you is absolutely wild! Plus, I have to endorse coming here at night once the city lights up. See attached photos for an idea. Absolutely a must for anyone visiting the city!
google
First time here and I loved it. I got a lil lost trying to find the entrance because Google will take you the old entrance that’s closed off but you had to go to the Willis tower entrance. There will be workers out by the entrance you can ask them to point you to the right direction cause it’s a bit confusing, you can also following the signs that shows Skydeck on it. The workers were very friendly and attentive. If you’re going solo and is worry that you won’t have anyone to take your pictures on the ledge it’s fine the workers will help take your pictures if you ask. I recommend taking a selfie stick to take photos especially if you’re going solo it helps make it easier for you, and yes selfie stick is allow. The view at the top is beautiful and thrilling. 11/10 would recommend to anyone who wants to go.
google
We visited Skydeck Chicago over the weekend and were honestly surprised. The crowd wasn’t heavy at all, and the whole experience felt smooth with no long waits.

The views from the 103rd floor are amazing. You get a full view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago downtown skyline, and it’s worth it just for that. The Ledge experience was the highlight. It’s exciting, a bit scary, and a must do if you’re there. We got some great pictures that turned out really well.

One downside is the merchandise shop. Prices felt almost double compared to what you’d normally pay, so I’d skip buying souvenirs there.

Overall, it was a great experience and I’d definitely recommend it.
Tip: buy tickets through Groupon or a City Pass. It’s much cheaper than purchasing directly and totally worth it.

Online Reviews

Today Show (Online) 

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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 peak

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
Chearleader 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