Willis Tower Skydeck
103rd-floor observation deck with 'The Ledge' glass boxes cantilevered over the city.
The call
Worth it if you're traveling with kids and you're traveling as a couple.
Short answer
Is Willis Tower Skydeck worth it?
Willis Tower Skydeck deserves a place on most first itineraries. Go early or reserve ahead. Crowds are part of the cost.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
The view is the highest in the city and The Ledge — stepping onto a glass floor 1,300 feet up — delivers a real jolt.
- 02
The catch is the experience around it: long queues, a corralled museum-style approach, and a price that stings if the sky is hazy, so check visibility before you commit.
Is it a fit?
Go if
This is your first trip to Chicago
The definitive top-of-Chicago moment if you only do one observation deck.
You're traveling with kids
With kids, Willis Tower Skydeck is an easy yes.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, Willis Tower Skydeck is an easy yes.
You care about the visual experience
Willis Tower Skydeck rewards a trip built around beauty & photography.
Think twice if
You're watching the budget
Willis Tower Skydeck can strain a tight budget. Go only when it is a priority.
You only have one day
Keep Willis Tower Skydeck only when it outranks a half-day elsewhere.
You're traveling solo
Solo, Willis Tower Skydeck needs the right timing and tolerance.
You want something active
Willis Tower Skydeck offers some adventure, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
Plan it well
- Cost
- $33–43 adult
- Timing
- Go on a clear day; check visibility first, and aim for sunset or early to dodge the worst queues.
- Booking
- Buy timed-entry tickets online to skip the standby line.
- Allow
- 1–1.5 hours
- Accessibility
- Elevators throughout; the Ledge and deck are wheelchair accessible.
- Getting there
- Wacker Drive entrance in the West Loop; Quincy and LaSalle 'L' stops are close.
Consider instead
Sources and method (2)
- The Ledge glass balconies sit 1,353 feet up on the 103rd floor and extend ~4.3 feet from the building; general admission starts at $32 (expedited from ~$55) theskydeck.com ↗
- Admission includes elevator access to the 103rd-floor deck and entry to the Ledge theskydeck.com ↗