John Hancock Center - on the top of John Hancock Center tower
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John Hancock Center

4.7
·20k reviews·Chicago, United States

Experience Chicago from 1,000 feet up! The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck offers panoramic views and the thrilling TILT experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, clearer views

CrowdLow
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John Hancock Center - on the top of John Hancock Center tower

John Hancock Center

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, clearer views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Chicago from 1,000 feet up! The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck offers panoramic views and the thrilling TILT experience.

4.7
(20k reviews)

"The views are fantastic and a must-visit, offering a thing of beauty along with the tall buildings."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your 360 CHICAGO tickets in advance online.

☁️ Check the Weather

Clear days offer the best views, sometimes even reaching neighboring states!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

94th Floor

Experience unparalleled 360-degree views of Chicago's iconic skyline and Lake Michigan.

TILT Experience

TILT Experience

94th Floor

Lean out over the city on this thrilling, glass-enclosed platform 1,000 feet above Michigan Avenue.

Cloud Bar

Cloud Bar

94th Floor

Enjoy cocktails and light bites with a breathtaking backdrop of the city lights.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Visit on a weekday morning or evening to avoid peak crowds. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money. The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck is located in the building formerly known as the John Hancock Center.

Maximize Your Views

Check the weather forecast before you go; clear days offer the best panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. Sunset is a popular, albeit busier, time for stunning cityscapes.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Magical city lights
Crowd
High
When
Clear days
Why
See neighboring states
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO & PRICES ⬇️ 📍Selarón Steps : best to arrive early - FREE 📍Tijuca National Park : very poor service at visitor center & beyond, download All Trails for offline navigation, it's a HIKE to the visitor center alone - FREE Christ the Redeemer - about $18 USD 📍The Beach : Bring cash for vendors - FREE 📍Sugarloaf Mountain : best on a clear day and/or at sunset but less crowds early in ...
@letterstoyoublog
10.9K likes • 152.7K views

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your 360 CHICAGO tickets in advance online. Reddit

☁️ Check the Weather

Clear days offer the best views, sometimes even reaching neighboring states! InstagramReddit

Did you know the John Hancock Center is no longer called the John Hancock Center? What do you think the name should be? #chicago #architecture #hancock
fugroupchicago
1.9K likes • 79.2K views
Découvrez Chicago comme jamais auparavant au 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck ! Situé au 94ème étage du célèbre John Hancock Center, ce point de vue offre une vue panoramique à 360 degrés sur la ville et le lac Michigan. 😱🙃 Osez l’expérience « Tilt », qui vous penche en avant au-dessus des rues à 300 mètres de hauteur pour une montée d’adrénaline inégalée. 😵 Que ce soit pour admirer le coucher de sole...
viensonpartloin_
7.5K likes • 1.6M views

💰 TILT Value

Consider if TILT is worth the extra cost; some find it pricey with no photo ops. Reddit

📸 Best Photo Ops

The observation deck offers great angles for photos of the Willis Tower. Reddit

📍John Hancock Center @360chicago has the best view of Chicago 💌 . . . #reelsinsta #reelsvideo #explore #explorepage #travelreels #romantic #dateideas #chicago #chicagogram #chicagoreels #chicagotravel #chicagoskyline #lifestylereels #bengaligirl #bongbeauties #wanderlust #august #taylorswift #trendingreels #trendingaudios
olivebiswas12
556 likes • 10.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your 360 CHICAGO tickets in advance online. Reddit

☁️ Check the Weather

Clear days offer the best views, sometimes even reaching neighboring states! InstagramReddit

💰 TILT Value

Consider if TILT is worth the extra cost; some find it pricey with no photo ops. Reddit

📸 Best Photo Ops

The observation deck offers great angles for photos of the Willis Tower. Reddit

🍸 Cloud Bar Drinks

Drinks at Cloud Bar are pricey, but the view is spectacular. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(20k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan from the 94th floor of 875 North Michigan Avenue. The quick elevator ride and the unique perspective for photographing the Willis Tower are frequently mentioned highlights. While the TILT experience and Cloud Bar drinks are noted as pricey, the overall panoramic vistas are deemed well worth the admission.

"Great skyline views! Loved the views of the city and the lake. Elevator ride up is quick too. Also, the best observation tower to get pics of the Sears Tower in the skyline. We went on a Sunday morning in the height of summer and there was no wait."

Joe Hardenbrook

"Hancock center is definitely worth visiting in Chicago. They have the 360, cloud bar and Tilt. 360 is definitely worth it and the views are fantastic and must visit. Looking at the water view along with the tall buildings is a thing of beauty. Navy pier view was fantastic. Dont miss out on this one !!"

Ramesh D Foodie

"360 CHICAGO offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, Lake Michigan, and even neighboring states on clear days. Located on the 94th floor of the former John Hancock Center, it’s a must-do for visitors wanting a bird’s-eye view of Chicago.

The TILT experience adds an extra thrill, tilting you outward over the city—fun for adrenaline seekers! The observation deck is modern and has a bar, making it a great spot to relax and take in the scenery.

It’s a bit pricey, especially if you add TILT, but the views are totally worth it—especially at sunset. Pro tip: visit on a weekday or earlier in the day to avoid crowds."

vishal orsu

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Great photo opportunities
Quick elevator ride

What People Dislike

Expensive TILT experience
Pricey drinks at Cloud Bar

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck is located at 875 North Michigan Avenue. You can reach it via public transportation, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Parking is available in the building's garage, but it can be expensive. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking garage directly attached to the 875 North Michigan Avenue building (formerly John Hancock Center). Rates can be high, so consider ride-sharing or public transport if possible. Reddit

Many visitors find that using ride-sharing services or public buses is convenient for reaching the 875 North Michigan Avenue building. The CTA bus routes 147, 151, and 157 stop very close by. Reddit

Yes, the John Hancock Center is centrally located on the Magnificent Mile, making it walkable from many downtown hotels and attractions like Navy Pier or Millennium Park, though it's a bit of a trek. Reddit

Absolutely! The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck at 875 North Michigan Avenue is easily accessible via multiple CTA bus routes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for 360 CHICAGO can vary, especially if you opt for add-ons like TILT. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and consider purchasing in advance. Reddit

You can purchase tickets for 360 CHICAGO online through their official website or at the ticket counter on the 1st floor of the 875 North Michigan Avenue building. Booking online is often recommended to save time. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking your John Hancock Center tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or weekends, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues. TikTokReddit

A standard 360 CHICAGO ticket grants you access to the observation deck on the 94th floor for panoramic city views. Add-ons like TILT and Cloud Bar experiences are typically separate purchases. Reddit

Keep an eye on the 360 CHICAGO website for potential discounts, especially for residents or during special promotions. Sometimes, booking online can offer a slight saving compared to on-site purchases. Reddit

🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience

TILT is an enclosed, glass platform that literally tilts you forward over the city from the 94th floor of the 875 North Michigan Avenue building, offering a unique and thrilling perspective. InstagramReddit

Unfortunately, you cannot take personal photos from within the TILT experience itself. Professional photographers are available to take pictures, which you can then purchase at an additional cost. Reddit

The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck typically operates daily, with extended hours on some evenings. It's best to check the official 875 North Michigan Avenue website for the most up-to-date operating hours. Reddit

The building is officially named 875 North Michigan Avenue, but it is still widely known and referred to as the John Hancock Center. Instagram

For fewer crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Sunset offers spectacular views but is busier. Clear days are essential for seeing the full panorama, including neighboring states. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Cloud Bar is located on the 94th floor of the 875 North Michigan Avenue building, offering cocktails and light bites with incredible views. Reddit

Reviews suggest that drinks and cocktails at the Cloud Bar are on the pricier side, but many feel the view justifies the cost. Reddit

The Cloud Bar is accessible to visitors of the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck. While there are other dining options within the 875 North Michigan Avenue building, the Cloud Bar is specifically for those enjoying the views. Reddit

The Cloud Bar primarily offers a selection of cocktails, wines, beers, and some light snacks or appetizers to complement the drinks. Reddit

Many visitors find the experience of enjoying a drink with the panoramic Chicago skyline to be a highlight, despite the higher prices. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck provides fantastic vantage points for cityscapes. Don't miss capturing the iconic Willis Tower from this perspective. InstagramReddit

While personal photography is encouraged, professional photo shoots may require special arrangements or fees. Check with the venue directly for their policies. Reddit

Sunset offers a dramatic backdrop with city lights beginning to twinkle. Weekday mornings can provide clearer shots with fewer people in the frame. InstagramReddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed on the observation deck. However, tripods or professional equipment might have restrictions, so it's wise to inquire upon arrival. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on specific landmarks. A tripod might be challenging due to crowds, so consider a monopod or image stabilization. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck offers a fantastic, albeit high-up, experience for families. Kids are often mesmerized by the vastness of the city and the quick elevator ride. While TILT might be too intense for younger children, the main observation deck provides plenty of space to explore and take in the views. Consider bringing snacks or enjoying a treat at the Cloud Bar to make the visit more enjoyable for everyone. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck can be a splurge, it's often considered more affordable than some other major city observation decks. To save money, focus on the general admission ticket and skip the TILT experience and pricey drinks at Cloud Bar. Visiting on a weekday morning can also help avoid peak pricing and crowds. Look for online deals or Chicago CityPASS if you plan on visiting multiple attractions. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Date Nights

The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck is a popular spot for romantic outings. Visiting at sunset offers a magical ambiance as the city lights begin to twinkle. Enjoying a cocktail at the Cloud Bar while taking in the panoramic views can be a memorable date experience. The TILT experience can add a touch of adventure for couples seeking a thrill. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Architecture of 875 North Michigan Avenue

The building, officially known as 875 North Michigan Avenue, was a groundbreaking feat of engineering when completed in 1969. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), it was one of the tallest buildings in the world at the time and is renowned for its distinctive X-braced exoskeleton. This architectural feature not only provides structural support but also gives the skyscraper its unique, visually striking appearance. The hancock building was a symbol of modern architectural ambition.

The John Hancock Center building's design was revolutionary, utilizing a tube structure that allowed for greater height and stability. Its tapered form and dark, reflective glass facade make it a prominent landmark on the Chicago skyline. The building houses offices, residential apartments, and the popular 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, making it a multi-use skyscraper that continues to impress visitors and residents alike. The John Hancock skyscraper remains a testament to innovative design. Instagram

While the building's name has officially changed, the John Hancock Center is still the name most people recognize. Its enduring legacy is tied to its architectural significance and the breathtaking views it offers from its observation deck. The hancock building is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and anyone visiting Chicago. Instagram

Experiencing TILT: A Thrill-Seeker's Perspective

For those seeking an extra dose of adrenaline, the TILT experience at 360 CHICAGO offers a unique way to view the city. Located on the 94th floor of the 875 North Michigan Avenue building, TILT is an enclosed, glass platform that literally tilts you forward, extending you over the edge of the skyscraper. This exhilarating ride provides a stomach-dropping perspective of the streets and buildings far below. InstagramReddit

While the thrill is undeniable, it's worth noting that TILT comes with an additional cost on top of your general admission ticket. Some visitors find the price steep, especially considering that personal photography is not permitted from within the TILT platform itself. Professional photos are available for purchase, but this adds to the overall expense. Reddit If you're an adrenaline junkie and looking for a memorable, albeit pricey, experience, TILT is definitely worth considering. However, if you're on a tighter budget or primarily focused on photography, you might prefer to stick to the main observation deck. Reddit

Capturing Chicago's Skyline from the Top

The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck at 875 North Michigan Avenue is a prime location for capturing stunning photographs of the Chicago skyline. From this vantage point, you get an unparalleled 360-degree view that includes iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the vast expanse of Lake Michigan. InstagramReddit The sheer scale of the city laid out before you is breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

Many visitors highlight that the John Hancock building photos taken from this deck offer a unique perspective, particularly for capturing the Willis Tower in relation to the rest of the city. Reddit The John Hancock Center photos can showcase the city's impressive architecture and urban sprawl. For the best photographic opportunities, consider visiting on a clear day to maximize visibility and potentially see into neighboring states. The hancock building observatory provides ample opportunities for both casual snapshots and more professional-grade photography. Reddit

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