Observation decks in Chicago, compared
The short answer: Chicago has 2 major decks. Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower is the highest (1,353 ft), 360 Chicago is the cheapest (from $32) — but the right pick depends on what you want: the comparison below sorts it out in a minute.
| Deck | Height | From | Type | Thrill factor | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower | 1,353 ft | $36 | indoor | ★★★ glass ledge | — it's Chicago's definitive high view (four states on a clear day) and The Ledge remains the most extreme glass-floor experience of any major US deck, included in base admission rather than upsold |
| 360 Chicago | 1,030 ft | $32 | indoor | ★★★ glass ledge | for many visitors it's the better Chicago deck |
All Chicago decks on the map
The full verdicts
Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower GLASS LEDGE The tallest observation deck in the US that's been one since 1974 — 1,353 ft up the former Sears Tower, with The Ledge: all-glass boxes that slide you 4. 360 Chicago GLASS LEDGE The John Hancock's 94th-floor deck, rebranded 360 Chicago — lower than Skydeck but positioned where the view is: the skyline, the lakefront beaches, and Navy Pier all in one south-facing frame, plus TILT, which leans you out over Michigan Avenue at 30 degrees.
Chicago observation decks — quick answers
2 major public observation decks: 360 Chicago, Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower. Each has a full guide on this site with prices, hours, and an honest verdict.
Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower at 1,353 ft (103rd floor).
360 Chicago, with tickets from $32. Prices shift with season and time slot — sunset always costs more.