Willis Tower (Sears Tower) Tours
2,753 Reviews
Once the world’s tallest building when it opened in 1973 as Sears Tower, Willis Tower is still way up in the clouds. The 1,454-foot (443-meter) skyscraper reigns as the tallest building in the Midwest and the second-tallest building in all of North America with its spires just 325 feet (99 meters) shorter than Manhattan’s One World Trade Center. Though it functions as an office tower, the skyscraper’s 103rd-floor Skydeck Chicago draws 1.7 million annual visitors for a trip out onto The Ledge, an enclosed glass balcony extending four feet (1.2 meters) outside the 103rd floor, and for panoramic views that, on clear days, extend as far as Indiana, Michigan, Iowa, and Wisconsin.
The Basics
Willis Tower can be seen from around the Windy City and is a highlight on most sightseeing tours and Chicago River cruises. Those looking to head to the top should book admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting in long ticket lines. The journey to Skydeck Chicago starts with interactive exhibits and the “Reaching for the Sky” film presentation, which covers the tower’s history and plays during the 70-second elevator ride up to the 103rd floor. At the Skydeck, you can admire the city from above and take a turn on the glass-bottomed Ledge, set 1,353 feet (412 meters) above the streets. For a unique Chicago dining experience, book lunch or dinner at Willis Tower, where you can eat Chicago-style, deep-dish pizza on either the 99th floor or at the Skydeck. Early risers can opt for an early-access breakfast experience at the Skydeck, 90 minutes before it opens to the public.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Allow at least an hour for a trip to the top.
- It’s best to book tickets in advance to avoid waiting in admission lines.
- The building offers free public WiFi.
- Gift shops and a café—serving popular Chicago fare from Connie’s Pizza and Vienna Hot Dogs—are located at the Skydeck.
How to Get There
Willis Tower is located on the west side of the Loop, not far from the Chicago River and several popular Chicago attractions such as the Art Institute and Millennium Park. It’s serviced by several bus lines and is near the blue, brown, orange, pink, purple, and red lines on the L train. The Ogilvie Transportation Center and Union Station are both under a half-mile (0.8 kilometers) west of Willis Tower. The entrance to the Skydeck experience is off of Jackson Boulevard.
When to Get There
Willis Tower is open 365 days a year, with the Skydeck and The Ledge open October through February from 10am to 8pm and March through September from 9am to 10pm. Last entry to the Skydeck is 30 minutes prior to closing. Views are equally good on sunny days year-round, but Chicago winters are notoriously snowy. To beat the crowds, it’s best to visit just after the building opens. Sunset is a popular time to visit, while the midday sun can create shadows and glares on the viewing windows and Ledge platform.
Address: 233 S. Wacker Drive, The Loop, Chicago, Illinois 60606, USA
Hours: Open daily. Mar-Sept: 9am-10pm, Oct-Feb: 10am-8pm. Last entry 30 minutes prior to close.
Admission: Adults: US$23, Children (3-11yrs): US$15
26 Tours and Activities to Experience Willis Tower (Sears Tower)
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Chicago Architecture River Cruise
Cruise down the Chicago River to see the city's famous architecture on this boat tour. With commentary from your onboard guide, watch the spectacular skyline glide by, including more than 40 notable buildings like Navy Pier, the Wrigley Building, and the John Hancock Building. Cover all three branches of the Chicago River, passing the East Bank Club, the old Post Office Building and the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower).
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Chicago CityPASS
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Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Lake Michigan Sightseeing Cruise
Take in superlative-worthy views of the beautiful Chicago lakefront and its many landmarks during this 40-minute Lake Michigan sightseeing boat cruise. Climb aboard your vessel for a laid-back ride, enjoying panoramic views of the Windy City's iconic skyline from a unique perspective. Along the way, you'll listen to informative commentary and take in views of the John Hancock Center and Willis Tower, along with many other landmarks. Plus feel free to bring your own lunch or grab a drink at the onboard bar, during your ride.
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Go Chicago Explorer Pass with SkyDeck and 360 Chicago
The easiest and most affordable way to explore some of Chicago's top attractions at your own pace, the Go Chicago Explorer Pass saves you up to 45 percent on regular ticket prices. Create your own sightseeing itinerary by choosing 2, 3, 4, or 5 attractions, tours, and activities from among more than 30 top sites, including SkyDeck, 360 Chicago, the Field Museum, a shoreline sightseeing cruise, a hop-on hop-off Big Bus tour, Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, and LEGOLAND® Discovery Center.
Please note: Enjoy the extra flexibility in case your travel plans need to change: All passes are valid for two year from purchase date and only become activated with your first attraction visit. After activation your pass will be valid for 60 days and/or the remaining number of attraction choices purchased.
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Chicago Odyssey Dinner Cruise
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Chicago City Minibus Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Chicago Odyssey Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise
Enjoy waterfront views of downtown Chicago on a 2-hour brunch cruise through the heart of the city. Board a luxurious yacht at Navy Pier then relax on deck with a complementary mimosa. Find a comfortable spot on the three climate-controlled observation decks, and enjoy a sumptuous buffet while the onboard DJ spins a leisurely afternoon playlist. Capture unforgettable images of downtown skyscrapers and architectural landmarks as you navigate along the historic shoreline, then loop back and finish your outing at the bustling Navy Pier.
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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2 Hours Chicago Sightseeing Tour - Luxury Private Stretch Limo / 8 Passengers
Choose the number of hours and we can help you make the most out of your time! Book a VIP treatment to see the city in your private car. Our knowledgeable drivers will do the hard work so that you an enjoy the view. Limo service Hop on - hop off, call today to customize your tour.
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
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Private Tour of Chicago in Open Air Jeep
See Chicago the best way possible, in a PRIVATE open top Jeep Wrangler.
Fun, informative, cool music, top guides, best routes, customizable too.
Sanitized after each trip to do our best to protect everyone. Masks required at all times by driver/guide and guests over the age of 2.
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Chicago Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private & All-Inclusive)
If you're looking for an exciting and stress-free day exploring the wonders of Chicago, then this is the tour for you. We can’t wait to show you around!
The morning will start with a private pickup from your hotel by one of our friendly, local guides. From there your tour will begin as you start your drive in one of our comfortable and spacious vehicles.
This full-day tour will be fully packed with famous landmarks, vintage architecture, secret spots and much much more!
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Full schedule
10:00 AM – Pick up from Hotel
10:15 AM – Check out Buckingham Fountain
10:45 AM – Arrive at Michigan Avenue Bridge
11:15 AM – Awe at the Chicago Cultural Center
12:15 PM – See Cloud Gate and explore Millennium park
1:00 PM – Lunch time
2:00 PM – Go to Chicago Theater
2:30 PM – See Garfield Park Conservatory
3:00 PM – Check out the Greetings from Chicago mural
3:30 PM – Snap a cool pic outside of Wrigley Field
3:45 PM – Return to hotel
4:00 PM – Arrive at hotel
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
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This half-day tour will be fully packed with famous landmarks, yummy food and much much more!
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Full schedule
11:00 AM - Meet your guide at the Grand subway station
11:05 AM - Taste the famous Portillos hotdogs
11:45 AM - Enjoy an Al’s Italian Beef Sandwich
12:35 PM - Drool lover a Chicago favorite deep dish pizza
1:25 PM - Take some Garrett's Popcorn to go
1:35 PM - Check out Tribune Tower and Wrigley Building
2:05 PM - Try the delicious Do-rite Donuts
2:20 PM - Walk to Buckingham Fountain
3:00 - Get dropped off at the Millennium Subway Station
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From
$289.00
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From
$289.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Chicago City Mini Bus Tour
PLEASE NOTE: Our mini buses are disinfected after each tour. We will do our best to make each tour fun, informative and as SAFE as possible!
Freshly discounted private tours are also available. They will be the best way to travel for a while. Select the Private Tour category.
Enjoy Chicago’s famous sights (now including Wrigley Field!) and fabulous views on this award-winning small-group sightseeing tour of the city. Travel through Chicago with an expert guide on a comfortable minibus, stopping at iconic locations like early skyscraper "The Rookery" (Frank Lloyd Wright architecture), Museum Campus (for the BEST skyline view in town), Millennium Park (The Bean), Buckingham Fountain, The Magnificent Mile, Lincoln Park, Chicago River, The Gold Coast, Lake Shore Drive and more! Along the way, your guide will provide historical and informational commentary about the area and its many attractions. The small-group atmosphere with maximum of 10 people ensures a more personal experience.
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From
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
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From
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From
$39.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
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From
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Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
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