Chicago Things to Do Tips by Paulie_D

Sears Tower Skydeck Willis Tower (Formerly Sears Tower) Review

If anything can truly be called a 'Must See' in Chicago, it's the Sears Tower Skydeck.

From the top of the Sears Tower you get one of the best views of Chicago. At 1,353 feet, the Skydeck is the highest observatory in Chicago. On a clear day, you can see 40 to 50 miles. You can see 4 states - Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin.

The best time to visit is after 4 pm for great sunsets and twinkling night-scape viewing. Remember to turn the flash off on your camera before taking a picture through a window.

Sears Tower is handicapped accessible and prepared for wheel-chairs, strollers and scooters.

Information from Visit Chicago Illinois.com

Adult - $9.50
Senior (65+) - $7.75
Youth (3-11) - $6.75
Children Under 3 FREE!
*plus admissions tax

Address: 233 South Wacker Drive

Directions: The Loop, you can see it from practically everywhere in Chicago- so it's not too hard to find.

Phone: 312.875.9696

Website: http://www.theskydeck.com

The Hancock Observatory John Hancock Center Review

The best aerial views of Chicago, in my humble opinion, despite the Sears Tower being higher than the Observatory. You get great views up and down the lakefront and this is the primary reason for going.

I suggest that you visit the Sears Tower to compare.

A 'Skywalk' let's you feel the wind in your hair and there are informative displays.

For an additional $3 you can get a 'Skytour' by way of a 30 minute personal headset audio tape.

The Hancock Observatory is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00pm (last ticket sold at 10:45 pm)

Adults (13-61) - $9.75 (inc. taxes)
Seniors (62+) - $7.75
Children (5 to 12) - $6.00
Children (4 and under) FREE

Address: 875 North Michigan Ave. Chicago IL 60611

Directions: 94th Floor, John Hancock Centre

Phone: 312.751.3681

Website: http://www.hancockobservatory.com

Cruise the Chicago River & Lakefront The Chicago River Review

Take a 90 - 120 minute guided tour through Chicago's downtown river and harborfront by boat. A commentary on 17 bridges, 82 buildings and landmarks is provided.

After a trip up the river we passed through the famous Chicago River locking system and entered Lake Michigan for spectacular views of the Chicago Skyline.

Prices $17 - 19 with a variety of cruises offered.

More pictures - Click here

Address: Dock at Michigan Avenue & Wacker Drive

Directions: Cruise follows the river down the center of downtown then out onto the lake.

Phone: 312.332.1353 (General Info)

Website: http://www.mercuryskylinecruiseline.com