If you’re visiting a city that has a lot of skyscrapers, or a city that’s known for its skyscrapers, chances are you’ll get tickets to visit one of the city’s highest observation decks. These are found atop the city’s tallest skyscrapers, of course, and they’re the best way to get high panoramic views of the city.
While vacationing in Chicago, a city known for its skyscrapers and architecture, I simply had to visit the observation decks of both the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Tower. Both offer stunning 360 views of the city, but the views they offer are extremely different. If you’re in Chicago, you can’t just visit one of the towers and be satisfied, you have to go big or go home.
The day I visited the Willis Tower was a cool 76 degree Wednesday morning, clear skies. I had gotten lucky with the weather, and didn’t see a cloud in the sky. Alas, I was able to see miles beyond the city limits, and into four states: Illinois (obviously), Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
As you can see, I got pretty lucky with the weather.
But it didn’t quite turn out that way when I visited the John Hancock Tower.
Or did it?
I had visited the John Hancock Tower (875 North Michigan Avenue now, whatever) two days prior. The afternoon was cloudy and a short rain shower passed through, but the sun later came out, making it muggy. Eventually it cleared up, and I decided to visit the tower’s observation deck.
But when I got up there, the fog decided to return.
Was I angry that I spent $40 on a view that was completely obstructed by clouds? You bet I was.
But I decided to remain patient. I sat for a while up there, watching the hundreds of flying spiders climb on the outside of the windows and make webs (yes, in case you didn’t know, Chicago has a flying spider problem).
Of course, the clouds eventually sort of cleared up. But good thing I waited, because the views that came were unlike any I’ve ever experienced.
I mean, how could you not say that view is gorgeous?
For one thing, I’m glad I decided to stay up there. It turned out to be absolutely worth the $40 (but the Tilt was a bit of a disappointment, considering you couldn’t see all the way down).
A thrilling experience nonetheless.
Whether your time at the observation deck is cloudy, sunny or a bit of everything, if you allow it to be a good experience, you’ll have a good time.
Chris is a writer and publisher who travels America, and loves doing it. He also loves pizza, video games, and sports, and can tell you a thing or two about each. Follow him on Medium to be informed of new articles.
