There are amazing views to be found all over the world, but few confuse the senses like the Skydeck Chicago Ledge on the viewing deck of the Willis Tower.
Despite being well aware of all the over-the-top safety features in place, that first step out onto the Skydeck Chicago Ledge is a bit unnerving. The glass balcony juts out more than four feet from the 103rd floor of the highest observation deck in the United States.
At 1,353 feet up, it’s surreal to look straight down … but really cool.
If you are afraid, I recommend finding a way to move past it and embrace this opportunity. However, either way, the unparalleled views from the 103rd floor are truly impressive, whether you step out on the ledge or not.
Here’s how it went for us …
Visiting Willis Tower
Our adventure started out on the entry level of the Willis Tower.
The ground floor is filled with interesting exhibits reminding us that Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, people, and community. It highlights the city’s sports, culture, and architectural heritage with fun interactive displays allowing us to get a different perspective on the tower.
One of my favorites was the ability to measure the tower using Micheal Jordan, Oprah Winfrey, or other unusual measurement standards. In case you are wondering, the Willis Tower is 262 Micheal Jordan’s tall.
We also enjoyed a short film detailing the tower’s history and highlighting a few other architectural wonders of Chicago.
Photo by Jeff Albom
From ground floor to the Skydeck Chicago in 60 seconds
It took only 60 seconds to get from the ground to the 103rd floor. From that height, the views are up to 50 miles and can include up to four states (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin). Skydeck Chicago attracts more than 1.7 million visitors annually.
What inspired the Ledge?
Following the success of the movie Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, there were hundreds of forehead prints left on the windows every week. This, plus a Vegas walkout inspired the new Skydeck Chicago General Manager to create the Ledge.
It took a year of engineering and six months of construction to create the four boxes. Each is designed with a 1.5-inch glass floor fully tempered to hold a five-ton load.
It not only draws locals and tourists but also a bit of romance. There have been over 800 marriage proposals and 50 weddings.
Location, tickets and other key information
- Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) is at 233 South Wacker Drive in Chicago, Illinois. The entrance to Skydeck is located on S. Wacker Blvd between W. Jackson St. and W. Adams St.
- Skydeck Chicago is the name of the Willis Tower observation deck. The Ledge refers to the glass boxes that cantilever from the building.
- The Skydeck Chicago is open every day with seasonal hours: March through September from 9 am-10 pm and October through February from 9 am-8 pm. There are slightly longer hours on some of the weekend days.
- While you can get general admission tickets, we noticed people were waiting upwards of 45 minutes to get out on the ledge. Now you can save time by reserving your preferred entry time in advance, and be out there when you want.
- Or, if you are spending a few days enjoying Chicago, consider getting a CityPASS® ticket and save 48% on five key attractions, including Skydeck Chicago.
- Pro tip: the best time to visit is either right when it opens or after 5pm.
More on visiting Skydeck Chicago and walking out on the ledge
For me, the tower is a must-see on any visit to Chicago. I was a teenager when it was built, although back then, it was called the Sears Tower. It was exciting to go up into what was then the tallest building in the world (we have since been up the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the current tallest building in the world. For me, it defines Chicago’s skyline and is a must-see on my rare visits to the city of my birth.
- Now the second tallest building in the USA, the Willis Tower was the tallest building in the world for over 25 years.
- You can purchase “Save Ferris” t-shirts from amongst the Skydeck souvenirs available at the gift shop.
- While I don’t always purchase professional photos, the ones taken on the Ledge are really fun. Shot from an angle high up, they really capture the atmosphere.
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Will you walk out on the Skydeck Chicago Ledge? Or have you already done it?
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Disclaimer: I was provided with complimentary entry and a private tour, however, the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
James Long
Great read. I certainly would love to do this. Not sure if I can convince my wife to join me. Our two boys would probably have a go.
Thanks for writing about it. Never would have know otherwise.
Cheers
James
Rhonda Albom
My nephew was really hesitant. He said he wasn’t going to step out, but then, just as we were done, he brave it and took one step out onto the glass.
eileen g
Not only could i not do that, I wouldn’t even be able to stand and watch other people do it. If my family wanted to, i would have to walk away. good for you for being brave.
Rhonda Albom
You just might surprise yourself.
Stephanie @SV CAMBRIA
Yeah, I would do it but it would probably get my heart racing a little — I’m afraid of heights. But the view from the top is too good to pass up!
Rhonda Albom
It was really amazing, and worth getting over the fear.
[email protected]
That looks like an incredible view, luckily neither Corinne nor I are scared of heights so I don’t think we’d have a problem. Our daughter, Erika, however, would never even go near that box!
Rhonda Albom
My nephew said the same, but then he gave it a try.
[email protected]
That is quite the view! I am not quite scared of heights but it would take a little convincing for me to get onto the platform.
Rhonda Albom
It’s worth the effort.
Stefanie
NEVER! I couldn’t possibly! It’s strange how happy I look to be there in your pictures though…
Rhonda Albom
LOL – wasn’t it an amazing experience.
Anonymous
It really was – not the same as just looking out the window – it was a fun day all around!
L.Jenkinson
Help- no- I would not go out there- and you’re scaring me so come down—lol!
Rhonda Albom
Actually, it was totally amazing. But we are safe on the ground now.
Lydia C. Lee
hate heights but would probably have to do it anyway…
Rhonda Albom
LOL – it is pretty amazing. You really should give it a try.
Comedy Plus
Would I do that? NO! NO WAY! NEVER!
Have a fabulous weekend. 🙂
Rhonda Albom
LOL – I think you have made your point.
Alex J. Cavanaugh
Not fond of heights, but who could pass up an experience like that?
Rhonda Albom
Agree completely.
shere
I’m not sure I would dare. In Toronto’s tower I didn’t. I’m so afraid of heights….
Rhonda Albom
In Toronto my girls jumped up on down on the glass – like mother, like daughter.
Joyce Lansky
That would be a h*ll no. I see you’re keeping your weight off. Looking great, Rhonder!
Lexa Cain
Love the pics! I went up to the top floor in the 70s with my high school French club. We went at night and the view with all the city lights was gorgeous. Long before the boxes were built, though. Would I go in one now? Umm…probably not. 😉
Rhonda Albom
LOL – sure you would 🙂
Paula McInerney
Would I? NO. Now get down. Regardless, don’t you look amazing. Great shots and a lovely view. Pleased you took them for me.
Rhonda Albom
Interesting reply coming from you, you do things I would never do all the time – like those 4x4s you rode on a month ago,.