875 North Michigan Avenue – 360 Chicago Observation Deck, Chicago

875 North Michigan Avenue – 360 Chicago Observation Deck, Chicago (must see)

Designed by the architectural talents of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, this versatile skyscraper, formerly known as the John Hancock Center, is instantly recognizable for its narrowing silhouette and massive X-shaped braces, serving as sturdy reinforcements for its towering stature of 100 stories. Shortly after its completion in 1970, it earned the affectionate moniker "Big John", and it's no wonder why – soaring to a staggering height of 1,127 feet (or 1,506 feet, counting its antennae in the taller east tower).

Housing an array of amenities, including retail spaces, parking facilities, offices, a restaurant, and residential units, it's often likened to a self-contained city within a city. When viewed from a distance, however, the building exudes an austere yet captivating elegance, epitomizing the International style championed by the legendary Mies van der Rohe.

Much like its architectural sibling, the Willis Tower, also designed by the same architectural team, this skyscraper offers sweeping vistas that span four states (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin) on clear days. To witness this spectacle, ascend to the 94th-floor observatory, now rebranded as 360 CHICAGO (admission fee: $30). While you're there, why not savor a cocktail, beer, wine, hot beverage, or non-alcoholic refreshment at the CloudBar, an exclusive perk for General Admission ticket holders.

For the thrill-seekers in the crowd, an additional fee unlocks the tower's most exhilarating feature – The Tilt ($8). This heart-pounding experience features eight windows that tilt downward to a daring 30-degree angle, providing a unique perspective of the city below.

Bonus tip:
Just across from the skyscraper stands the Fourth Presbyterian Church, boasting English and French Gothic influences, and dating to 1914. Step inside to admire its elegant interior and tranquil courtyard – a surprisingly serene oasis just a stone's throw from Michigan Avenue.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Chicago. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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875 North Michigan Avenue – 360 Chicago Observation Deck on Map

Sight Name: 875 North Michigan Avenue – 360 Chicago Observation Deck
Sight Location: Chicago, USA (See walking tours in Chicago)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Chicago, Illinois

Create Your Own Walk in Chicago

Create Your Own Walk in Chicago

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The Magnificent Mile Walking Tour

The Magnificent Mile Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
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Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture Tour in Oak Park

Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture Tour in Oak Park

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.2 Km or 2 Miles
University of Chicago Walking Tour

University of Chicago Walking Tour

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Set in the heart of Chicago’s famous eclectic neighborhood, Hyde Park, the campus is worth a visit as it offers a...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.5 Km or 1.6 Miles
Chicago Introduction Walking Tour

Chicago Introduction Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Chicago Navy Pier Walking Tour

Chicago Navy Pier Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles
Millennium and Grant Parks Walking Tour

Millennium and Grant Parks Walking Tour

The city of Chicago is renowned for its outdoor green spaces. One such “forever free and open” space, is called Grant Park and was established in 1844. In fact, upon foundation, it was called Lake Park, but was renamed in 1901 after the American Civil War General and United States President, Ulysses S. Grant.

Popularly referred to as “Chicago's front lawn,” this lakefront park is...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles

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