Willis Tower Photos
More like Willis Tower
Recommended Reviews - Willis Tower
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Spontaneous visit to Sears Tower on a Saturday afternoon! I haven't been here since I was a little kid, and that was before they added The Ledge and before it was renamed to Willis Tower, so I've been wanting to come back to experience it again. Surprisingly on a Saturday around 1:30pm, it wasn't crowded at all and there was 0 wait times for anything. I loved the museum you walk through before getting to the elevator that takes you up. The part featuring Chicago foods and the mirrored deep dish pizza was especially cool. When we got up to the top, we enjoyed the amazing views and then headed over to The Ledge. There are two lines, but it did not take long at all because they only allow people 90 seconds to take photos and there are multiple ledges. There's also a bunch of restaurants located here, so you could truly just make a day out of it. They also have other exhibits sometimes, and I think this time around it was the Color Museum. Love that they also added a Van Leeuwen ice cream shop recently!
If you're using CityPASS, this is one of the attractions you have to visit. Since I'd already been to 360 CHICAGO, I wasn't sure how different the experience would be, but the views are actually quite different. From here, you get a much better view of Chicago's skyline and all the surrounding buildings, whereas 360 CHICAGO offers more views of the lake. On a clear day, you can even see into two other states, which I thought was pretty cool. My CityPASS included access to The Ledge, so I was able to skip the long regular line and use the expedited entrance. The process was well organized. A staff member takes your photos and guides you through the experience. Since I was traveling solo, I also asked one of the staff members to take a few photos with my phone, and they were more than happy to help. My only small complaint is that the time on The Ledge felt a little rushed. I understand they have to keep things moving because of the crowds, but I would've loved another 30 seconds or so just to soak in the view instead of feeling like I had to leave right away. Overall, it's an iconic Chicago experience and definitely worth visiting, especially if it's included with your CityPASS.
The best place to go to get the best of the Chicago skyline. Whether you are going here as a tourist or local it's a great experience. There is a cafeteria on the ground floors with plenty of options to eat. After that you can go up to the sky deck and take pictures and learn about the history of Chicago. The tickets are a little pricey so it's something I wouldn't do on a frequent basis. It's definitely worth it to do at least once while you are in Chicago.
They have military discounts! But you can't take advantage of the discount unless you purchase tickets onsite. We were not prepared for the crowd on a weekday. Pro tip, you can line up for entry 15 minutes before your entry time. But at about 17 minutes before entry everyone rushes to the line, lol. The line moves fast, so no biggie. Once you enter, you go through security (another line) then they do photos (another line) then you walk through several very interesting exhibits, with multiple photo opportunities (more lines) but my hubby was focused on getting to the top, so we skipped the photo ops. Next you get in line for the elevator. After shooting up so fast your ears pop, you are treated to a wonderful view that pictures just don't capture. If you choose to go out on "The Ledge" its another line. They also take your picture. I can attest that you can accomplish the photo without ever looking down. Yes it's a lot of standing in line, but how often are you up where planes are flying by at eye level? And boy is the city breath taking from this vantage point.
While walking the city to get to my meeting, I had to walk past the Sears Tower... This might be called the Willis Tower, it's still and will always bee the "Sears Tower" to me! It's huge! It was humbling standing at the bottom and looking up. I didn't go up it, but liked the view from the bottom!
Great views. A trip to the ledge will set you back $54/person plus a processing fee. Exhibits leads you to a line to queue for the elevator which takes you to the 103rd floor. Another queue to get to the ledge. Timers are set for 90 seconds once on the ledge to keep the line moving. Great views and less scary than you'd think. On a clear day it's definitely worth a visit. Several food options in the main level including shake shack and a sushi bar.
The Willis Tower is a cool spot in Chicago as it's home of the SkyDeck, the viewing spot on the 104th floor. Here you can walk around and embrace the skylines, and you can also wait in line to stand in one of their glass boxes for a free photo op included in your ticket. We visited right before close at night so there were long lines to visit the glass boxes. They only give you 90 seconds to take photos--good for line management, rushed for enjoying. You also had to walk through a "museum" type features before hitting the elevators. It was cool but we didn't take our time through it since we went through so late at night. It took us about 10 minutes to walk through with very little stops. After you finish that, you get to the elevators Overall it gave a cool perspective of the city. It's on opposite ends of the other tower that offers this, so you see different views.
Worthwhile stop while in Chicago. Nice exhibit before you get to the elevator to take you to the observation deck, which was very worthwhile, although fairly pricey. I would hate to come on a really busy day and wait in line for an hour or more, but it was pretty easy access for us on this day. Very enjoyable to do on a nice day where you can see things at a distance.
Willis Tower (or as all Chicagoans call it, Sears ) was definitely worth the visit. I got my ticket through CityPASS, which automatically includes the express lane--absolute game changer. The ride up was a dope experience, especially with all the Chicago history along the way. Of course, the highlight was the Skydeck boxes free-hanging over the city... equal parts terrifying and amazing. The entire place was clean, well-kept, and very well organized. Definitely a must-do Chicago experience.
I have been to the SEARS tower before, but after my wife and I recieved a date book of fun things to do in Illinois, we decided to do the Ledge. (I've done it in the past). It's pretty pricey but it's Chicago and it's a tourist trap. Views were amazing as ever. The pictures look a lot better than the ones I've taken in the past thanks to technology.
Great place for tourists in downtown Chicago. They sell tickets to take the elevator to the skydeck area. Your ticket includes the ability to go onto these glass out pockets in the side of the building at a specific time window. You can see completely below you and get some awesome pictures of Chicago.
I didn't pay up to go to the top and go out on the ledge. What I did do was take the elevator to the fourth floor and lay out on the grass and stare straight up enjoying two skyscrapers. This was so calming and reminded me as a kid flat on my back and enjoying the clouds in the sky. However on this day no clouds were to be had. The lawn here is nice. It would have been nice to have a picnic here.
$25 to get in line and be at the ledge for I think 3 minutes. I was there at 2200 and the wait took about 40 minutes. The attendants are rude and move you to a middle ledge like cattle if you didn't want a professional photo and will take blurry pictures of you if you ask them to take a pic with an iPhone because "they're not professional photographers". Really poor service at a tourist attraction. I swapped taking pics with a nice family. Still got my pic but what an unpleasant experience. Been to several countries and states and first time to be treated so badly at a tourist attraction. The view is not as nice as the Empire State Building but if you're in Chicago, it's something to do. read more
3 years ago
If you're tight on time and are looking to choose between going up the John Hancock Center or the Sears Tower, I would definitely choose the Sears Tower. (Yes, people, it's the SEARS TOWER. Don't make my ears bleed by calling this place the Willis Tower.) Now, don't get me wrong, both towers are great, and you won't leave feeling disappointed at either one, but Sears Tower wins for me, and the biggest reason why is the interactive exhibits the Sears Tower has for people while waiting in line. While the John Hancock Center does have posters showcasing the history of the tower and the city, it does not have the interactive exhibits I'm about to mention, so when waiting in line, it can get pretty boring. For example, you will be able to sit inside a clone of a Chicago subway and feel as if you're on an actual one, or you might be able to see a mini replica of Downtown Chicago. There's also several photo ops along the way. (And for those who may be sensitive to flashing lights or feel uncomfortable from the constantly changing screens, there are doors available for you to skip the exhibits.). And the views are simply jaw-dropping amazing, especially at night. I recommend coming here at night so you can truly enjoy Chicago from above with all its lights. Make sure to also check out the Ledge when here - you'll stand on top of a glass floor 103 floors(!) above Chicago. If you're scared of heights, beware! Do note, however, the staff will limit you and your party to 90 seconds to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity of enjoying the Ledge (but you can line up to enjoy the Ledge as much as possible). This place may be a tourist trap, but it's one of those places you can't miss when in Chicago. So, what are you waiting for? read more
One of the most popular tourist spots in Chicago! There's definitely going to be some kind of wait even if you have the CityPass. However, if you do get the CityPass you get to skip some lines (Yay!). We went on a Wednesday afternoon and it was still pretty busy. I really didn't mind the wait, I don't remember it being that long either. There were only a few elevators that could take you up to the highest floor. Once up there, you're basically on your own. You can chill anywhere and there's always some kind of view in front of you. I was really excited to see the ledge so we went over there almost as soon as we got out of the elevator. There are 4 Skydecks to choose from and there are 3 separate lines for each ledge. The wait can take a while depending on the people in front of you. Some people can take forever taking their photos but some just take a couple and leave. There was one Skydeck (the first one) that was dedicated to a professional photographer who will take your photos for you. There was only one line and it was pretty long. But, you'll get a solo shot of you and the whole ledge. Pretty worth it to me. On the way down there's a gift shop where you can buy whatever souvenirs you wanted. Despite my bf being terrified of heights and feeling sick that day, we still had a pretty cool experience up there. Would definitely come back if I ever come back to Chicago! read more
8 years ago
My first trip to Chicago we opted to do the John Hancock instead after reading several reviews. This second trip it made sense to check out the Willis. Buying tickets online in advance to skip the line was definitely a must. We breezed through in minutes while walking past a very long, slow moving, line. The view at the top was ok. Glad we did it but it wasn't life changing by any means. Of course the draw to the Willis is the glass sky boxes that stick out of the building for those awesome pictures. This you have to also wait in line for and there's no fast pass option. I think we waiting about an hour, of course betting on a line that moved slower than the one next to it. Overall though, these sky boxes are worth it for the pictures opportunity! read more
Willis Tower, the iconic building that makes Chicago skyline what it is, is everything I expected. Right now there is a lot of construction, which takes away from its grandeur. The lobby staff is very helpful in assisting visitors to find their way though. They were friendly and all smiles which was nice. Getting up to the observation floor is a process. There wasn't a long line when we were there but I can see how the queue could get very long. There is a lot of info and photo ops as you wind your way to the elevators. Once you get upstairs, the observation floor is big, clean and organized. There's a gift shop and another set of queues to stand on the glass floors. It's very organized though and it was very easy to navigate. And as you leave, downstairs there is another nicer gift shop and several snack options OK so the views can't be beat! The windows offer several vantage points. The pay binoculars machines worked really well. I live in Chicago and visit Willis Tower when I have friends or family in town. But now that I came back after several years, I can see the draw. It was a beautiful experience. read more
8 years ago
This is a must do at least once if you are ever in Chicago. Try to go early in the morning to avoid the long lines. If you are a party of 3 or less you have 30 seconds to take a picture in the glass box. Good thing is that you can do the line more than once. They will let 2 parties take pictures at the same time- on different sides of the glass window. Tip of advice: if you are in a party of 3 or less, go behind a big party since they have around 90 secs and you'll be able to stay as long as them! read more
3 years ago
Great experience while in Chicago. Couldn't wait to get here and take those pictures from the top!! Oh boy what an experience ., don't be fool by my calmed pose., read more
9 years ago
Buy your tickets online so you can skip the ticket line which is an hour itself. The wait to get up was another hour. The views are from inside, you don't necessarily get to go all the way up but high enough. There's glass cages hanging out from the sides when you get up so you can get into them to get a better photo which is a plus. It's a 360 degree view and there's a gift shop up there as well. Definitely allocate plenty of time for this trip. Plan accordingly and you'll enjoy it. read more
7 years ago
Downstairs under Construccion I always bring family and friend but this time I bring my date We love a the views Dont forget the chitown souvenirs read more
7 years ago
The glass walk out is as cool as advertised. If heights scare you, this is not for you. The wait to get up the elevators stinks but once you arrive at the top it's a great experience. -Yale Reardon read more
4 years ago
Great views of CHICAGO from a top. Admission is not bad but I would pay extra to expedite the process - the elevators and the wait time to take pics at the ledge is ridiculous. If you don't pay extra, you will be paying extra for parking (I paid about $51 for 1.5hrs). Parking is not free and ridiculous. They do have a ipark rate but didn't know how to use that. All you need to know is over 1 hr is 51 dollars. Ipark is 12 for 3 hrs I think. read more
7 years ago
It's nice view from sky deck but definitely not worth for general admission 25$ or fast pass 75$!!! If you don't get fast pass you need to on the line more than 30 minutes just to take couple pics. Because you can stay only 60seconds at the window! Do you really want to pay 75$ for pic? Me? No!!! read more
2 years ago
10 years ago
Chicago, Illinois ... Willis Tower Best views in Chicago ! In my opinion the views here are better than the views at the Hancock Building. We went a couple of hours before sunset. We had a two hour wait in line , with the City Pass/Fast Pass. But our timing was perfect. We made it to the top approximately one half hour before sunset and took some great day time photos of the Chicago skyline. When darkness came we took some great photos of the Chicago skyline after dark. The LEDGE on the Sky Deck was so crowded with patrons that the visual effect of being in a glass enclosed balcony was lost on us. The employees who normally control access to the LEDGE were absent allowing for a Chaotic scene of being crushed by the mob who rushed into the unguarded enclosed space to pose for photos. Nevertheless , the views of the city are visible from all four sides of the interior of the tower. Views of the North,South,East and West sides of the city are available. Once there we spent almost an hour and a half enjoying the daylight, dusk, and night time views. The setting sun allowed for some spectacular views. Best to prepare for a long wait. Two to three hours depending on the size of the crowd. It is reported that well over 25,000 people a day pass through the Sky Deck. Bring water and a snack to enjoy during the wait. Once on the elevators you zoom to the top, so hold onto your stomach , and your lunch. All in all , it was a fun experience to share with family & friends. Prepare to have a great time read more
5 years ago
5 years ago
7 years ago
The most tourist destination if your in Chicago. It is located on downtown and if you don't want to wait in line for less than one minutes for the picture go early. I was lucky as I arrived there early on Monday at 10AM. I was still in line for 15 minutes once I reach to the top highest floor for the pictures in the cubic. It was amazing view when you reach to the top floor but service was suck! Once your in front of the line, they gave you like 60 seconds for the pictures. I came with a group of 5 people so we had to take turns really fast because everyone was waiting in line. I recommend divide the group in two if your group is more than 4 people as you had more times. Admission for one person was $25 I think. I don't think it is worth it but when your on vacation just do it once. Overall, i will not come back here as I already check on my checklist! read more
I first searched for "Sky Deck", because believe you me, I'll never call this the Willis Tower. My son and I tried to beat the tourists at 10am, but you can't beat the tourists at their own game (they have nothing else to do in Chicago)! Still, the lines weren't that bad, and we chose the regular admission of $15.95. Once you get up to the level that's basically an advertisement for all of the Chicago landmarks, you can skip right past the tourists taking their pictures and head up to the SkyDeck. I like the Sears Tower observation deck or "SkyDeck". There's no recorded messages talking at you while you're captive, and you can see for miles and miles! Well, on a clear day. We couldn't see four states, just one! Still, the view is great, and I liked seeing all the landmarks and museums down below. The Ledge is cool, and gave me butterflies from being up so high. A little pricey, given that I worked on the 74th floor and had a pretty good view up there (along with the experience of being IN a thunderstorm), but you've simply got to do it when you're in town. Or being a tourist in your own town! read more
12 years ago
Tallest tower in the US thus far! Definitely worthy to check out and be on the skydeck! Do go during sunset! The natural lighting and city lights, beautifies the lovely Chicago! It's breathtaking and the sunset doesn't last long to get a fabulous, picturesque and glowing city view, so get some snapshots before it becomes dark for the everlasting memories here! read more
8 years ago
WOAH. The lines here are really long! But I think it's all worth it in the end. I would go with a group of people (or a single person) that you really are comfortable spending long periods of time together, because this wait is no joke. A lot of the Yelp reviews recommend buying a fast pass...yeah, I didn't do that. But I survived, and you will too, if you don't buy a fast pass. But do it if you want your life to be that much more convenient. When you finally get to the elevators, be ready! They move really quickly. I really enjoyed the elevator ride though, because they tell you how high up you are in comparison to other well known buildings or structures like the Eiffel Tower. Once you get off the elevator at the top though, be ready! There's another whole waiting session before you get to take pictures in the little glass pods. But the view was definitely worth it, and I wish I could be up there again. It was honestly a really cool experience. 10/10 would recommend doing it at least once. And the price to get up isn't too bad! Take lots of pictures when you're up there! read more
Sears Tower...Willis Tower? I'm sure it'll remain Sears Tower for most. So Sears Tower was at the top of the list of places to visit when I planned my weekend trip to Chicago. I was excited to go up 1354 ft. in the air and take pics of me standing on the skydeck overlooking the city (Hello...Facebook profile picture worthy!)...only to have that dream shattered due to poor weather conditions and no visibility. :( I appreciated that the staff advised visitors of the No Visibility conditions prior to them spending $19 to see nothing. Although we didn't have to pay anything (free admission for military members), I think that it would be nice for others to receive some sort of discount on No Visibility days. You're literally paying $19 for an elevator ride and view of the clouds. Because it was a No Visibility day, we didn't have to wait in long lines like I've seen in previous reviews. The only wait that we did have was between elevator rides which was entertaining in itself. We listened to the staff talk about what flavors and how many chicken wings they wanted to order for lunch, we viewed two staff members flirting and explaining why they would be a great for each other, and we had a staff member who just stood there and didn't open the gate for us to exit so we had to limbo our way out. Like literally, "Limbo lower now...how low can you go?" All in all, I am looking forward to my next visit and actually being able to see the view of the city from the 103rd story. I'd really like to read the history and facts that were all along the walls too... read more
4 years ago
This was so much fun I loved every minute of it except when I left and they charged me $51 for parking. Other than that it was very educational and I got some cool pics. read more
13 years ago
If you absolutely positively MUST step out on the clear ledge or you will not be able to leave Chicago with satisfaction in your heart then go here. Otherwise like many suggested to me - go to the John Hancock Observatory. I wanted to experience a day time city view and evening city view so I chose to do both. I would not be content having not experienced the Sky Deck but I left saying I wish I would have parachuted off of the side of the bldg or scaled the edge of it - something really frightful and adventurous. I received zero to little thrill standing on the platform. Sure it was sort of cool but at best just OK. I suppose I prefer leaping out of the side of airplanes 13k feet above ground so standing indoors on a clear platform just didn't do it for me. It was $18 and I arrived around 130P on a Friday. Very short wait, really I ran through most of the place just wanting to get onto the elevator and to the 103 floor ASAP. It is a fun experience for all I believe and some of the pictures come out really great. I loss my camera and these shots are the ones I may miss most but all in all I'd say you'll have a better experience at the John Hancock unless you have small children where this may suit your needs better. read more
Got the Go Chicago Card that let us skip the TICKET lines, which definitely saved a lot of time. Only the CityPASS lets you take the "fast pass" lane and skip all the way to the elevator lines. I was so envious! My friend and I got to the Willis Tower around noon and a line was forming out the door to go through security. However, it was only about 30-40 minutes of waiting to finally get to the observation deck after skipping the ticket lines. Not as horrible as I had imagined. Be prepared to stand in a bunch of lines though because there were also lines to stand and take pictures on the ledge. But, lines moved at a decent rate after staff straightened lines out and told everyone that there should be 3 lines for each ledge (left, center, middle). [Note: There's multiple ledges, so no need to hop in the first line you see!] Leaving the observation deck also meant standing in another line. We got packed to the brim in the elevator rides going up and down. Overall, glad to have the experience! The ledge definitely made it more special as a tourist attraction. read more
This most certainly is a tourist trap, but I'm a tourist so it's a-okay! :D And... if you're a tourist (like me!), you certainly need to get the Chicago Citypass. Trust me, without it you'll be waiting in line for 2+ hours - even if you go early in the morning (which arguable should have less people than later in the day). With the citypass we were able to bypass the huge lines and were up in the elevator in about 15 minutes. So if anything the citypass can help you save hours of waiting in line with foreigners and large school groups. When we got to the top we waited in line for one of the skyboxes to take epic selfies. It's a lot harder than it looks because of the lighting, so be sure to bring a camera with a strong flash. This is definitely a spot to visit if you're visiting from out of town, but once is enough. Hope you're not afraid of heights :) read more
The famous Ledge on the Skydeck at Willis Tower. Needless to say, this place is popular. You can purchase tickets online but I DO NOT recommend this. Even if you buy tickets online, you still have to wait in line with every one else. My friends bought tickets online, showed up at Willis Tower and were told it was a 3 hour wait so they just bounced. Lesson of the day: Buy Tickets there. We came here early - at around 930am - so we could avoid the huge lines. It was a 40min wait so it wasnt too bad. The day was clear so the view was beautiful. There was small lines for the Ledge but those are about 10min since mostly everyone is there to take a couple of selfies and whatnot. Overall, worth doing it once. For $19 a pop - its a good experience. read more
The only way to see this is to first get a City Pass. That will allow you to bypass the crazy 2+ hour long line you have to endure to check out the sky deck. I have to admit, with my fear of heights, I wasn't all that crazy about doing this, but I was coerced! Besides, even with the City Pass, it's still an investment of your time, so I figured I had to make the most of it and go out on that crazy sky deck. No promises to look down though. The view is spectacular! Even to say it's spectacular makes it sound like an understatement. Nearly every angle of building gives a stunning vantage point. Worth the long lines getting in and out to land a photo opp. So by all means play the tourist cards and schlep it up 103 floors - it's pretty unforgettable. read more
Once you go through security and pay it is the wind through the displays to the elevator. Once at top, forget trying to going out on the Sky Deck unless hanging out for 1+ hour to step out on the Deck is your idea of good time management. Fools taking ENDLESS SELFIES like they are the only ones in the world up there. They really need to get this under control and limit people to one minute when the lines are long. Just plane rude. Sunsets are nice and once you get done the elevator dumps you into a maze of tourist traps. Candy, shirts, hats, shot glasses etc, etc, blah, blah. If you have never been there, do it once in your life. Any more and you are setting yourself up for disappointment. I know, I did this twice in two weeks and two exact same experiences. One with the Mrs, the other with guests. read more
Have I mentioned I am deathly scared of heights? We visited Chicago during Memorial Day Weekend. The weather was horrible. Cloudy, rainy, cold - but we wouldn't let that stop us! We were determined to see the city. We arrived to the Willis Tower at around 10AM - bright eyed and busy tailed, ready to conquor my fear. The elevator operator (Can't think of what else her position would be called) informed us that there was 0 visibility, and if we decided to go up, we couldn't get refunds. So we decided to take a stroll around the city, get some lunch and hope it cleared up later. We returned back and they said the visibility was better, but not at 100%. Eh good enough for us! We did the crazy line and finally got up to the observation deck with the ledges. I saw people treating that ledge like it wasn't 90 something floors up with a direct view of the concrete sidewalk below us...they were laying down, doing hand stands, break dancing...ok maybe I am exagerating a little...but they were acting like it was nothing. I walked on to the ledge..after testing it with one foot...and took a few photos. I must say I was a bit sweaty after that, but I kept my cool. No breakdancing or hand stands for me, but I sat! That was impressive - in my mind. GREAT attraction for anyone in the city to check out! The photos come out awesome. read more
Great views. It was packed on the day we went. The line to get in the elevator to go up and for the sky deck was long. We were stuck waiting in line majority of the time we were here. The sky deck is on the west side of the building. Chicago skyline is on the east side. Great views of downtown on the east side. The sky deck was a cool experience, however we were rushed. So many people in line so the staff had to get all of us through so it wasn't that memorable. Still pretty cool though. The views are nice. But if i had to chose between John Hancock or the Willis tower observation deck, John Hancock takes it. The Willis is cool and if you haven't been to it, for sure check it out. read more
Went out for a morning stroll, decided to catch an u we, and landed here! It has a beautiful view of Chicago. A must see place just for the experience. I'm used to calling this "Sears Tower", so it was a surprise to see that the name has changed. The wait at 0900 was a good 30min. It's very clean and kind of reminds me of a ride at Disneyland where they educate you and set the scene prior to reaching the point of interest. There are a couple of check points, so don't bring too much. They also give you 30seconds for taking pics on the sky deck for a group less than 3, and 90 seconds for a group of 4. Think out your poses and don't be too shy to strike one. read more
In three words: Iconic. Epic. Fantastic! So worth your time if you are a first time visitor to Chicago. This was my 3rd visit to Chicago, yet never had time to get down here. Definitely worth the trip. Prices are $19 for adults, yet cheaper for seniors as well as children. I do believe that there are military discounts as well as an assortment of others. Standard process: you walk in, take an elevator down a floor, wait in line to go through security, then wait in another line to purchase your ticket, then wait in yet another line to see a 15-minute film on the Sears/Willis Tower beginnings (not a bad film, either), and the yet another line to go up a very cramped elevator 1803 feet in 60 seconds. Of course, if you want to go out on the ledge at the top, you'll be in yet another line. That's pretty much the journey to the top. But you know what? Despite the lines, it is well worth going. How often is it where you get to go up the 2nd largest building in the United States and enjoy the sights of one of America's greatest cities? The views are spectacular. And be sure to have your photo pass with you at all times so that you have the option of purchasing a ledge photo, which ranges from $24-33 for one or two prints, or a digital version. Two tips: purchase the Fast Pass ticket and save yourself the usual 45 minutes or so in lines. Also, better to park 4-5 blocks away on Jackson for $15 than to park across the street for more money (rip off). If you park in the Willis Tower parking lot, be sure to kiss at least $40 goodbye after two hours or so taking the tour. Enjoy Chicago! read more
12 years ago
The glass ledge at the Willis Tower is no joke and a definite must do while visiting Chicago. It's the highest visitor observatory in America (1,353 feet -103 floors up) and it makes for some of the coolest pictures ever, if you're brave that is; otherwise you're crouching down like a nerd (me) cause I was slightly scurred for my life. I'm hoping to go back and redeem myself though...do something crazy like a handstand on the ledge ; but we'll see. You got stunning views panning up to four states and that ledge just makes your experience a tad bit cooler. FYI- You can get a fastpass admission for like $40 or just pay the usual entrance fee which is half of that- For $10 more you can do two same day admissions which is a pretty good deal. I personally like the night view of the city better, although your pictures are much better during the day. read more
5 years ago
Funny and exciting experience I would recommend bringing a third wheel or double date to help take pictures because you have three minutes read more
3/5 because I like the view better from the Hancock Building. The 3-hour Friday afternoon wait to get to the top really bumped my rating down. Not sure there is anything in the entire U.S. I'd wait 3 hours to see, let alone Willis Tower. The Skydeck was neat, but if I only experience it once in my lifetime, that's okay. $19.50/per adult ticket. Expect a very, very, very long wait and line after line. read more
So this is one of those places that I'm happy I went to, but I would never go again. You wait 25 minutes in line to get tickets that cost $17 a pop. Then you weave through some hallways and are forced to watch a movie about the Sears/Willis tower, that whole process takes about 25 minutes. Then you are shoved into an elevator that goes really fast and you will most definitely be touching a stranger. Then you get off and "ooh and ahh" at the view for maybe 5 minutes. Then if you want to "freak yourself out" you wait in line for another 20 minutes to stand on the glass ledge, which in all reality, isn't that scary or thrilling. All the while "darling" little children are running up to the glass and trying to kick and punch their way through it. Even when it's your turn to take a picture. Even when you waited 20 minutes to take one stupid picture. The whole ordeal takes about two hours. You pay $17 a person to babysit other people's kids, watch a video, develop a serious case of claustrophobia and motion sickness, and look out onto (beautiful) Chicago. read more
12 years ago
Germs, Germs everywhere! Lol. I knew I had to sanitize myself as soon as I saw people licking, touching, caressing the glass everywhere. Yes you must come here! Don't go to Chi town without planning a visit to the Willis Tower. It's like going to L.A and not seeing the Hollywood sign. Go, because it is a must see tourist spot. Bring your camera and take pictures like a tourist. Go in the late afternoon. Why? Because most good tourists hit this spot in the morning. You want to avoid the crowd and plan it later in the evening as the lines get shorter! Just a tip. :) Forget the expensive post cards! Take your own pictures and send it to friends and family! read more
Perhaps this has always been my most anticipated destination in Chicago. You see, I yearn for excitement and I'd dare go up to the tallest building in the world. But tallest building in America? Willy ain't too impressive. It has always been my "dream", okay not dream...my GOAL to go up the Sears *ahem* Willis Tower. I know these places usually have a lot of people but there was A LOT of people..lines for EVERYTHING; line to pass security, buy tickets, elevator, line to walk and a line to leave. On top of it, people were insanely rude. I'm pretty numb when it comes to being rude and such, but if it means having my face about 5 inches away from the fact walls and getting shoved constantly as well, it's on. And here, I thought people in the Midwest were nice. Oh yeah, I'm at a tourist attraction. Dammit. While it was super hard to capture some perfect snaps of the other side of Chicago, I must say..the view is pretty fantastic and neat. Hancock has its aesthetics as well, but you just see farther at the Willis. When you look down, especially with the bridgewaters surrounding, it's absolutely calming and gorgeous. Speaking of looking down, of course I couldn't miss the Skydeck. I've been on the Skywalk at Grand Canyon before so it was easy. The worse part was that there were so many people standing in front of it, not waiting to take pictures, but just to be amused at people standing on the glass. The view down there is magnificent and it's a must for everyone...STAND AT YOUR OWN RISK! Though I was overwhelmed by the amount of people and all the shoving and shoving back, I was not pleased with the lines to leave. Some of the staff aren't as courteous but the woman at the information desk on the 1st floor was more than helpful with directions around town. read more
Going to the sears tower used to be one of my families favorite things to do but it definitely has changed. Staff member seem disengaged and unhappy. Most aren't willing to help you unless you hunt them down for assistance. Granted they have some construction going on now but for the cost you pay and their should definitely be some organization of the crowd. To get to the glass boxes it may take you well over a hour as people crowd into a line and wait while staff members were present at an empty box they had blocked off. Not one person controlled the crowd or the flow of lines as some people went to the front and proceeded to have a photo shoot while a crap ton of us waited. So this monstrous line you have to get through to get to the box is the same one you have to mitigate to get out. Do yourself a favor and get a city pass to beat the wait in line to get on the elevator to go up. read more
More info about Willis Tower
Willis Tower Reviews in Other Languages
Ask the Community - Willis Tower
I can't find the option to buy tickets for January 1st, is there any way I could buy tickets online?
I can't print my ticket from my phone. How can I print it before my visit day?
They were able to scan our tickets from my phone and we were able to skip the lines.
Do I have to print tickets or will they use them from my phone?
I had the ticket on my phone. They will accept both.
Review Highlights - Willis Tower
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
167 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
18 years ago
2 years ago
10 years ago
2 years ago
6 years ago
10 years ago
12 years ago
12 years ago
11 years ago
12 years ago
2 years ago
21 years ago
9 months ago
15 years ago
7 years ago
15 years ago
12 years ago
10 years ago
Willis Tower - landmarks - Updated July 2026
Best of Chicago
People found Willis Tower by searching for…
Trending Searches in Chicago, IL
Black Owned Nail Salons near Willis Tower
Blueberry Picking near Willis Tower
Cliff Jumping near Willis Tower
Dog Swimming near Willis Tower
Free Picnic Areas near Willis Tower
Jet Ski Rental near Willis Tower
Kayak Rental near Willis Tower
Landmarks & Historical Buildings near Willis Tower
Peach Picking near Willis Tower
Places To Visit near Willis Tower
Places To Walk Around near Willis Tower
River Swimming near Willis Tower
Scenic Restaurants near Willis Tower
Secluded Spots near Willis Tower
Soccer Store near Willis Tower
Swimming Holes near Willis Tower
Swimming Lakes near Willis Tower
Things To Do This Weekend near Willis Tower
Things To See near Willis Tower
Browse Articles
Browse Nearby
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Restaurants near Willis Tower
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Coffee near Willis Tower
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Things to Do near Willis Tower
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Breakfast near Willis Tower
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Photo Spots near Willis Tower
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Scenic Drive near Willis Tower
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Sightseeing near Willis Tower
Browse Brands
Related Searches in Chicago, IL
Best Lookout Points to Visit in Chicago, Illinois
Best Nature Trails for Hiking in Chicago, Illinois
Best Observation Deck Views in Chicago, Illinois
Book Engaging Historical Tours in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Charming Historic Homes in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Famous Monuments in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Historic Sites and Places in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Popular Landmarks in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Popular Photo Spots in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Stunning Skyline View Spots in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Top Nature Parks to Visit in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Top Points of Interest in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Top State Parks to Visit in Chicago, Illinois
Discover the Best Interactive Museum in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy the Best Walking Trails in Chicago, Illinois
Essential Tips for Every Tourist in Chicago, Illinois
Explore Beautiful Botanical Gardens in Chicago, Illinois
Explore Beautiful Castles and Landmarks in Chicago, Illinois
Explore Beautiful Parks and Green Spaces in Chicago, Illinois
Explore Children's Museums Near Chicago, Illinois
Explore Famous Historical Landmarks in Chicago, Illinois
Explore Free Things to Do Around Chicago, Illinois
Explore Popular Scenic Views Near Chicago, Illinois
Explore Popular View Points Around Chicago, Illinois
Explore Top Art Galleries Located in Chicago, Illinois
Explore Top History Museums in Chicago, Illinois
Explore Venues & Event Spaces in Chicago, Illinois
Explore the Top Car Museum in Chicago, Illinois
Explore the Tourists Must See List in Chicago, Illinois
Find Beautiful Views in Chicago, Illinois
Find Top Art Museums in Chicago, Illinois
Find the Best Bridge Spots in Chicago, Illinois
Find the Best Playgrounds to Visit in Chicago, Illinois
Great Things to See and Do in Chicago, Illinois
Must-See Tourist Attractions Around Chicago, Illinois
Popular Picnic Spots to Visit in Chicago, Illinois
Popular Places to Go in Chicago, Illinois
Popular Places to Take Pictures in Chicago, Illinois
Popular Things to Do in Chicago, Illinois
Popular Things to See in Chicago, Illinois
Top Historic Restaurants to Try in Chicago, Illinois
Top Museums for Kids to Visit in Chicago, Illinois
Top Places to Visit in Chicago, Illinois for Sightseeing
Tour Famous Lighthouses Located in Chicago, Illinois
Tour Popular Historical Sites in Chicago, Illinois
View Impressive Statues Found in Chicago, Illinois
Visit Beautiful Gardens in Chicago, Illinois
Visit Popular Museums in Chicago, Illinois Now
People who viewed Willis Tower also viewed
John Hancock Center
298 reviews
Streeterville, Near North Side
Navy Pier
1509 reviews
Near North Side
Chicago Water Tower
91 reviews
Near North Side
$
Frederick C Robie House
115 reviews
Hyde Park
Home Alone House
17 reviews
Chicago Chinatown
32 reviews
Chinatown
Aon Center
24 reviews
The Loop
Glessner House Museum
52 reviews
Near Southside
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
242 reviews
Elks National Veterans Memorial
15 reviews
Lincoln Park