Tag Archives: Willis Tower

Hancock – No, Not Will Smith

Usually people think about the Sears Tower when talking about the Chicago skyline (and that’s now passe since it has changed its name to the Willis Tower), but the John Hancock Tower & Observatory is probably the second most recognizable within the incredibly tall array of Windy City skyscrapers.

Like a black dagger, the John Hancock is recognizable as the tallest building from the east end of Michigan Avenue, signifying the beginning of the Gold Coast neighborhood. If waiting in a long line to get to the Skydeck doesn’t seem worth it to you, the Hancock is definitely the way to go. Plus, all the fun lies in having a cocktail or dinner at The Signature Room at the 95th. You may recognize the restaurant as its been the star in plenty of movies. Rene Zelweger once awaited her proposal here in The Bachelor with Chris O’Donnell. This building is also the last place to host Chris Farley, who died within in his apartment on a lower level.

Celebs aside, take in the view, it’s worth the wait. The line, the elevator and the service atop move quickly in order to get the most people in to see the sights. At the first level, shop away like any other ol’ block on Michigan Ave.

New Name- Willis, New Adventure- The Ledge

Where can you stand on top of $150 million dollars at 1,353 feet in the air, while overlooking four other states and swaying back and forth by six inches? Answer: The Willis Tower Skydeck .

theledge1Although it has been hard for Chicagoans to embrace the change of America’s tallest building from being called the Sears Tower to the Willis Tower, the love for the new and improved observatory atop it all has been taken in with loving arms. The Skydeck’s new addition is called  The Ledge and that pretty much says it all. The Ledge consists of all glass and peters over the city of Chicago for those who dare step into its case. From there it extends 4.3 feet from the Skydeck leaving guests on top of the world.

Insider Tip: The Willis Tower, as it has always been, is a major hotspot for visitors in Chicago- and the long line reflects that. Skip the hours wait by paying 30 bucks for the express ticket and go straight to the elevators and up, up, up. Trust us, it’s money well spent.