Chicago has some of the tallest skyscrapers in the US. This is partly due to the Great Fire of 1871, which destroyed much of central Chicago and the Near North Side. The city received numerous resources to help it rebuild, which led to the rise of famous Chicago skyscrapers and marked the beginning of the steel-frame “skyscraper era.”
Join us for an architectural tour of Chicago’s history. Discover fun facts and learn about five famous buildings in downtown Chicago.
The Willis Tower
Even if you’re not from Chicago or the Midwest, you probably know the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). At 1,451 feet and 110 stories, it is the third-tallest building in the US today. When it was completed in 1973, it surpassed the Empire State Building and held the title of the tallest building for 25 years. Structural engineer Fazlur Rahman Khan designed an innovative structure that consists of nine square “tubes” arranged in a 3×3 pattern. This creates a square base that is both efficient and economical. The new design also added more space for the observation deck.
Why Visit Willis Tower Observation Deck: Among all the Chicago observation decks and skyscrapers you can go up in Chicago, the Skydeck Chicago view from Willis Tower offers one of the ultimate skyscraper experiences in Chicago. From this vantage point, you can see all the other famous Chicago skyscrapers mentioned in this guide!
The Home Insurance Building
The Home Insurance Building was finished in 1885 during the building boom that followed the Great Chicago Fire. Not only was it the first skyscraper in Chicago, but it’s also known as the world’s first skyscraper. It’s not just its 10-story, 138-foot height. It’s also because it was the first building to use a steel frame to support its full weight. Architect William LeBaron Jenney developed a new method called the “Chicago Skeleton.” This technique was used in the tallest buildings in Chicago and around the world.
Skydeck Connection: The Home Insurance Building is gone, but you can still explore its impact on architecture. Check out Skydeck Chicago for fun exhibits that showcase Chicago architecture highlights and the evolution of skyscraper design.
John Hancock Center
Before the Willis Tower, architect Bruce Graham and engineer Khan finished the John Hancock Center in 1970. The Hancock, located at 875 North Michigan Avenue, stands 100 stories tall. It uses X-bracing on the outside to handle wind loads. This design means no interior support columns are needed, which significantly increases the floor space.
Willis Tower vs Hancock Tower: While both offer spectacular views, the Willis Tower’s Skydeck is taller and provides more space for viewing than other Chicago observation decks. In fact, you can see the Hancock’s unique X-bracing design clearly from the Willis Tower. This makes Skydeck an ideal spot to admire this architectural wonder from above.
Carbon and Carbide Building
The Burnham Brothers created this iconic 1929 Art Deco skyscraper. It stands out in Chicago with polished black granite, dark green terra cotta, and gold leaf details. According to local lore, the design is based on a dark green champagne bottle with gold foil at the top.
Even at a modest 503 feet, you’ll get a clear view of the 37-story Carbon and Carbide Building from Michigan Avenue. The Willis Tower Skydeck offers a stunning view of this building’s unique Art Deco design. It truly stands out among the Chicago skyline landmarks to visit.
Tribune Tower
In 1922, the Chicago Tribune ran an ad for a building design contest. They offered $50,000 to the winner. The winning Gothic Revival design by Hood and Howells takes inspiration from Art Deco. It also reflects features of medieval European architecture and 13th-century French cathedrals. The Tribune Tower was completed in 1925 and stands 462 feet. If you stop by, you’ll find the Wrigley Building across the street!
Best Views: Wondering what buildings to see in Chicago? The Tribune Tower stands out with its Gothic spires. You can see them best from the Willis Tower observation deck. From there, you can admire the detailed architecture up close.
Why Skydeck is the Ultimate Skyscraper Experience
Where to see the best views of Chicago? It’s still definitely at Skydeck Chicago. Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, it stands at 1,353 feet, making it one of the top skyscrapers to visit in Chicago. It offers incredible 360-degree views that stretch 50 miles across four states. You can see many iconic buildings in Chicago from here. Step onto The Ledge, five glass-floor balconies extending 4.3 feet out, for a thrilling skyscraper experience in Chicago. Skydeck is a top global attraction, according to Tripadvisor. Its interactive museum highlights Chicago’s landmarks, such as the Home Insurance Building and the Chicago Board of Trade.
Plan your visit to see the best views of Chicago. Experience the city’s rich architectural legacy!