#9 The Tallest in the world~ Willis Tower

Willis Tower (formerly named, and also known as, Sears Tower) is a 108-story, 1,451-foot (442 m) skyscraper in Chicago. Currently is the 9th tallest building in the world.

This skyscraper is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chicago, and over one million people visit its observation deck each year.

Interior of the tower

This building mainly focuses in community of business, tourism and culture. It’s a building with retail and commercial office space at heart, but also inspires tens of thousands of visitors to take in the amazing views of the city and experience the breathtaking on the observation deck.

The entrance for the tower

Besides, it also offers a lot of features in the building. It includes delicious cuisine from casual to fine dining, bank, fitness center, and hair salon and even welcomes numerous events throughout the year, including a City of Chicago Farmers Market, outdoor concerts, and the annual Sky Rise Chicago stair climb.

Metropolitan Club

The Metropolitan Club, located on the 66th and 67th floors of the Willis Tower, is the gathering point for elevating personal and professional success. With fine dining and conferencing capabilities, this club is only for Metropolitan Club member besides it offers 3 dining options, 17 private dining rooms available for special functions for groups from 4 to 400 people, and a full service Fitness Center

Willis Tower's 99th Floor

Will Tower’s 99 floors offer the guests to have their private event or cocktail party, so that can make for an unforgettable experience. This venue is perfect for the private party, wedding reception, or event, offering the option for private VIP access to the floor balconies extending four feet outside Willis Tower 1,353 feet over Chicago.

Skydeck

The Sears Tower observation deck, called the Skydeck, opened on June 22, 1974.

Located on the 103rd floor of the tower, it is 1,353 feet (412 m) above ground and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Chicago.

A second Skydeck on the 99th floor is also used if the 103rd floor is closed.

The tourist entrance can be found on the south side of the building along Jackson Boulevard.

Retractable glass balconies

Retractable glass balconies

Retractable glass balconies- view from below

In January 2009, the Willis Tower owners began a major renovation of the Skydeck, to include the installation of retractable glass balconies, extending approximately four feet over Wacker Drive from the 103rd floor.

This building is open 365 days a year!
October 1 through March 31, 10am-8pm
April 1 through September 30, 9am-10pm
(last entry 30 minutes prior to close)

Ticket Information:

Admission

Adult - Ages 12 and up

$18.00

Youth - Ages 3 to 11

$12.00

Fast Pass
Save time with express line to elevators!

$40.00

Children under 3 are FREE! Tickets available online to print at home.

WITH ME 2 U:

1.   Visitors are encouraged to arriving just prior to opening time in order to be an “early birds” to avoid long Q.

2.   Visitors are also encouraged go there before one hour prior to sunsets typically provides all three views (daytime, twilight, and night-time), along with dramatic sunsets (weather permitting).

References:

http://www.willistower.com/amenities-retail/building-amenities

http://www.willistower.com/

http://www.theskydeck.com/

http://www.chicagoarchitecture.info/Building/375/The-Willis-Tower.php