Willis Tower SkyDeck Chicago: Tickets

Willis Tower SkyDeck Chicago FAQs‍

1. Do I need to book tickets in advance for SkyDeck Chicago at the Willis Tower?

• We always suggest booking tickets online, yes. There is a ticket office on site but it does get busy and queues can form, so it’s always easier to book online.

2. Is SkyDeck Chicago Wheelchair accessible?

• Yes, SkyDeck Chicago is wheelchair accessible.

3. How do you get to SkyDeck in Chicago?

• The building has some rather fast elevators that take you to the 103rd floor!

4. Is the Willis Building still one of the tallest buildings in the world?

• It’s no longer in the top 10 tallest buildings in the world unfortunately! It had a good run of 22 years as the tallest building though! It is still the tallest building in Chicago.

5. What is the difference between Willis Tower and SkyDeck?

• SkyDeck is located on the 104rd floor of the Willis Tower.

6. Is the Willis Tower the Sears Tower?

• Yes, they are the same. It used to be called Sears Tower but is now called Willis Tower due to new tenants in the building have the naming rights.

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Fun Facts About Chicago SkyDeck at the Willis Tower‍

1. Height: The SkyDeck stands at a towering height of 1,353 feet (412 metres) above the ground.
2. The Ledge: The SkyDeck features glass balconies known as "The Ledge," which extend 4.3 feet (1.3 metres) outside the building, allowing visitors to stand 1,353 feet directly above Wacker Drive and see through the floor below.
3. Spectacular Views: On a clear day, as well as seeing the surrounding area,  visitors can also see up to four states from the SkyDeck, including Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
4. Popular Attraction: The SkyDeck attracts more than 1.7 million visitors each year to enjoy the incredible views, making it one of Chicago's most popular tourist destinations!
5. Historical Significance: The Willis Tower was the tallest building in the world when it was completed in 1973, and it held that title for 25 years. It was known as the ‘Sears Tower’ at the time. It is still the tallest tower in Chicago.
6. Weight of The Ledge: Each glass box of The Ledge weighs about 7,500 pounds, is made of three layers of half-inch thick glass and can hold up to 5 tons, ensuring its strength and safety!
7. The Ledge Addition: SkyDeck only added ‘The Ledge’ in 2009 offer a thrilling new perspective!
8. Interactive Exhibits: The SkyDeck also offers interactive exhibits and displays that provide interesting information about Chicago's history, architecture, and culture, which is another popular attraction in the building.
9. ‍Film Cameo: The Willis Tower and its SkyDeck have been featured in several movies and TV shows, most notably in the 1986 film Ferris Bueller's Day Off, where the main characters visit the observation deck! It was known as the Sears Tower at the time!