Willis Tower Tours and Activities

Willis Tower which includes a city, views and central business district
Willis Tower
Willis Tower
Willis Tower featuring a skyscraper, a city and mist or fog
Willis Tower showing interior views and views as well as a small group of people


Visit the Skydeck and gaze down over the Chicago cityscape from a dazzling 1,353 feet above the sidewalk.

Willis Tower, the tallest building in the US, is a 1,450-foot modern office block that offers unrivalled views of Chicago. Ride the elevators to the 103rd floor Skydeck, 1,353 feet above the sidewalks to check out a viewing platform and small museum. On a clear day it’s possible to see as far as Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin. Gaze across the city’s major attractions, including Lake Michigan and Millennium Park.

This landmark building on South Wacker Drive, in the West Loop, was constructed in 1973 as The Sears Tower (the name changed in 2003). It was the tallest building in the world for 25 years until the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lampur, Malaysia took this honor. The Willis Tower still holds the title as the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, though, and it’s the seventh tallest building in the world. It holds more than 3.8 million square feet of office space.

Don't miss one of the highlights of the Skydeck, the glass ledge which juts out from the side of the building. Walk on the glass floor and peer down at the street more than 1,000 feet below. Many stop to have their photo taken. There are 360-views from glass windows on every side of the tower, and a railing to hold on to in case you get dizzy.

Take the time to walk through a small interactive museum about Chicago. There are short videos, a trivia game, and photographs of the City’s attractions from 1,353 feet in the air.

Enter on the south side of the building along Jackson Boulevard.

Plan a trip to see Willis Tower

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Best Lodging Options Near Willis Tower

Congress Plaza Hotel

Congress Plaza Hotel

3.5 out of 5
520 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL
Congress Plaza Hotel
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North

Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North

4 out of 5
600 N State St, Chicago, IL
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North
The Midland Hotel Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

The Midland Hotel Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

4 out of 5
172 W Adams St, Chicago, IL
The Midland Hotel Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile

3 out of 5
10 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop, Chicago

Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop, Chicago

4 out of 5
111 West Adams Street, Chicago, IL
Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop, Chicago
citizenM Chicago Downtown

citizenM Chicago Downtown

4 out of 5
80 East Wacker Place, Chicago, IL
citizenM Chicago Downtown
The Allegro Royal Sonesta Hotel Chicago Loop

The Allegro Royal Sonesta Hotel Chicago Loop

4 out of 5
171 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL
The Allegro Royal Sonesta Hotel Chicago Loop
Palmer House a Hilton Hotel

Palmer House a Hilton Hotel

4 out of 5
17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL
Palmer House a Hilton Hotel
Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop

Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop

4 out of 5
226 West Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL
Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Willis Tower

When visiting Willis Tower in Chicago, be sure to explore its vibrant theatre scene, captivating art displays, and diverse entertainment options. For those planning special events, the tower offers elegant wedding venues with stunning views. Additionally, you can enjoy outdoor adventures in the surrounding area, making your trip both memorable and exciting.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is City Market, located 644m from Willis Tower, offering a vibrant mix of local goods. Chicago Place Mall, 1.6km away, features a variety of shops with a family-friendly atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, visit 900 North Michigan Shops, 3.2km away, for more entertainment options.

Recreation

At Wrigley Field, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports, just 8.0km from Willis Tower. Enjoy the vibrant entertainment at House of Blues Chicago, located 1.1km away. For a tranquil escape, visit Northerly Island Natural Area, 3.2km away, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Embark on a scenic hike along Salt Creek Trail, located 17.7km from Willis Tower, where you can immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Alternatively, enjoy family fun at Rainbow Falls Waterpark, 33.8km away, featuring thrilling slides and attractions that promise a splash-tastic day of adventure.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Willis Tower is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Chicago Theatre, only 1.1km away, or unwind at Dave & Buster's, a lively pub 3.2km from the tower. Catch a film at Film Row Cinema, located 1.4km away, for a fun-filled night.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Willis Tower

Visiting Willis Tower in Chicago offers a mix of urban parks, iconic skyscrapers, and historic buildings, perfect for travellers seeking cultural and family experiences. Don't miss the Skydeck for breathtaking views, and explore the local attractions like Torre Willis and Convene. Whether you refer to it as the Willis Tower or the Sears Tower, this landmark is a must-see for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant city life.

  • Michigan Avenue: A vibrant hub of activity, Michigan Avenue is known for its iconic architecture, high-end shopping, and bustling city atmosphere. Stroll along this famous street to experience the heart of Chicago's urban life, with plenty of cafes and boutiques to explore.
  • Millennium Park: Located close to Willis Tower, Millennium Park is a must-visit urban park featuring stunning art installations, gardens, and open spaces perfect for families. Don't miss the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, known as The Bean, which reflects the city's skyline beautifully.
  • Chicago Riverwalk: This picturesque waterfront area offers a leisurely stroll along the Chicago River, with scenic views and vibrant dining options. Ideal for families, the Riverwalk is a great place to relax, take in the sights, and enjoy outdoor activities.

Best time to go to Willis Tower

The best time to visit Willis Tower can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Willis Tower falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Willis Tower falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January25.7°F (-3.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February27.0°F (-2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March37.0°F (2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Willis Tower

To save money on your visit to Willis Tower, plan your trip between December and February when hotel prices are lower. Aim to book your stay on a Monday, the cheapest day, rather than Saturday when prices peak. Use Expedia's search tool to compare and sort hotel options by price. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for exclusive rates and the best deals to ensure you get the lowest price possible during your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Willis Tower are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Willis Tower is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Willis Tower is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make use of Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at the Willis Tower with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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