The best views of Chicago can be yours at the John Hancock Observatory! Perched 94 stories above the Windy City, the John Hancock Observatory provides commanding views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s towering skyscrapers, including Willis (Sears) Tower. Located in the heart of downtown on Michigan Avenue, the observatory is steps away from other top Chicago attractions, and with inclusions like the free multimedia Sky Tour and the open-air Skywalk, it will be the high point (literally) of your Chicago trip!
Highlights
- Admission to the John Hancock Observatory, located above the Magnificent Mile
- Ride to the top in North America's fastest elevators, which rise 1,000 feet (305 meters) in 40 seconds!
- Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan
- Feel the wind on your face as you experience Chicago's only open-air Skywalk
- Listen to the included Sky Tour narrated by part-time Chicagoan David Schwimmer
- Enjoy access to Lavazza Espression Café and free Wi-Fi
- Upgrade to the Sun & Stars option or the FastPass option for additional perks
Recent Photos of this Tour
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John Hancock Observatory Admission
Special Offer
Book your tickets in advance and save over 10% off the local admission price!
Useful Information
John Hancock Observatory
With your admission to the John Hancock Observatory, step off Michigan Avenue and into a high-powered elevator that will take you on an exhilarating ride to the 94th floor at a speed of 20.5 mph (33 kph). The observatory provides unbeatable views of Chicago at all times of the day: Go in the morning or afternoon to admire the expansive blue of Lake Michigan, go at sunset for a romantic moment, or go at night when the city becomes a sea of twinkling lights.
More than just the tip of a tall building, the John Hancock Observatory offers several activities to complement the pretty view. If you’re feeling adventurous, test your fear of heights on Chicago's only open-air Skywalk where no matter the season, the wind on your face from nearly 100 stories in the air will get your heart pounding! You can also stretch your eye a little further with the interactive telescopes (the first of their kind in the United States) and learn about the city surrounding you through the self-guided multimedia Sky Tour, which is narrated by actor David Schwimmer, who went to Chicago’s Northwestern University and co-founded the city’s Lookingglass Theatre Company. The guide is available in seven languages as well a version with commentary designed for kids.
Or, check out the 80 foot-long (24 meter) history wall with murals depicting Chicago's colorful past, and delight in a unique photo opportunity that will capture you as a John Hancock Center window washer. Souvenir photo packages are also available for purchase.
If you need to catch your breath, head to the observatory’s Lavazza Espression Café, where you can take a break with an Italian coffees, gelato, cocktails, or delicious café menu designed by 3-star Michelin chef Ferran Adrià (own expense).
Upgrade: Additional admission options are available to make the most of your visit.
More than just the tip of a tall building, the John Hancock Observatory offers several activities to complement the pretty view. If you’re feeling adventurous, test your fear of heights on Chicago's only open-air Skywalk where no matter the season, the wind on your face from nearly 100 stories in the air will get your heart pounding! You can also stretch your eye a little further with the interactive telescopes (the first of their kind in the United States) and learn about the city surrounding you through the self-guided multimedia Sky Tour, which is narrated by actor David Schwimmer, who went to Chicago’s Northwestern University and co-founded the city’s Lookingglass Theatre Company. The guide is available in seven languages as well a version with commentary designed for kids.
Or, check out the 80 foot-long (24 meter) history wall with murals depicting Chicago's colorful past, and delight in a unique photo opportunity that will capture you as a John Hancock Center window washer. Souvenir photo packages are also available for purchase.
If you need to catch your breath, head to the observatory’s Lavazza Espression Café, where you can take a break with an Italian coffees, gelato, cocktails, or delicious café menu designed by 3-star Michelin chef Ferran Adrià (own expense).
Upgrade: Additional admission options are available to make the most of your visit.
- The Sun & Stars option is good for two visits (valid for 48 hours) to the observatory providing opportunity to enjoy Chicago views by both day and night
- The FastPass option gives you express entry and elevator access so you can skip the line
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