Author: Kelly Holcomb

John Hancock Observatory-Chicago Attractions

The John Hancock Observatory is located on the 94th floor. That may seem like a long way up, 1,030 feet to be exact, but the elevators here are only an ear-popping, 40-second ride to the top. They are the fastest elevators in all of North America, traveling more than 20 miles per hour.

Don’t be alarmed if the elevator starts talking to you during the ride; it has developed quite a sense of humor over the past few years. After a comedic welcoming, you will be floored by the immediate view as soon as you step out onto the threshold of the 94th floor.

Multimedia Sky Tour

The new David Schwimmer-narrated Sky Tour is a multimedia guide to help visitors pick out Chicago landmarks large and small. It is free with admission. Each guest receives a set of headphones and a hand-held touch device for their sightseeing journey. Now everyone can observe at their own pace as they explore the Observatory, free to linger--loitering is acceptable; there's no rush here.

You can hear the tour in multiple languages, as well as in adult or child versions. Each tour offers a cumulative quiz at the end; kids enjoy racing each other to see who can complete it first.

It’s like Schwimmer says, no one can show you around Chicago like he can. He doesn’t miss a thing, from history to popular places that make Chicago the great city that it is today. Even if you can’t find exactly where he is talking about when you gaze out across the city, a picture will show on the device to help you find it. Now that’s a guided tour!

The sight here is surreal. Chicago has some of the most inventive architecture in the World. Even on a cloudy day, the views from the Hancock are well worth the trip. On a clear day, an Observatory goer can see for 80 miles, often including the shores of both Michigan and Wisconsin.

Soundscopes 

If you’d like a closer look of Chicago’s sites, the Hancock’s Soundscopes are talking telescopes and located at several of the windows on the Observatory's deck. The telescopes not only enable you to see your favorite sites closer, but have sound effects like chirping birds while peering out over Lincoln Park or a cheering crowd while gazing over Soldier Field.

Some locations covered in the tour are difficult to find, especially on a foggy day. However, the multimedia player will display pictures of the place of interest to help you find it.

Photo Ops

The souvenir photo booth in the John Hancock Observatory is a popular and comical attraction; stop in for a memento. Your picture will include different backdrops of Chicago’s remarkable scenery. You have the opportunity to pick up your photos either after you finish your tour or beforehand.

Another photo opportunity is at the “Washing Windows at ‘Big John’” which stages a daring photo shoot. Visitors are transformed into daring construction workers atop an unstable beam wavering outside the 94th floor. Surprise your friends back home, they will never know that it really never happened.

Watch the sunset from the top 

You won't want to miss the bold and stunning colors of the sunset from this height, to find out Chicago's sunset schedule click here.

History Wall

Chicago’s history is as rich as any, including notorious gangsters, blues, jazz, and world-renowned architects make Chicago full of character. At the Sky Deck, you can view more than 100 photos on four murals stretching over 80 feet.

Learn about the rise and fall of Al Capone and the early beginnings of Chicago like the city's rennovation after the devastating Chicago fire in 1871.

Quick Fact:

Did you know that the origin of the city’s name came from “Checagou,” a name that local Native Americans called the surrounding swamp land?

Sky Walk

Step out onto Chicago’s front porch. Get your thrills, and sometimes chills, on the breezy Sky Walk. The Sky Walk is not only a breath of fresh air, but a chance to engage all of your senses on the observing tour.

Soak in the smells, sounds, and even touch of the Windy City. They may say that Chicago got its nicknames from its winded politicians, but it seems to fit more the weather at 1,000 feet in the air.

Take off your headphones and listen to the sounds of the city on this deck, the audio tour encourages you to pause a moment to hear.

John Hancock Observatory: PRICING

General Admission

Adults - $15

Youth - $10 (Under 11)

Visit the Concierge Preferred Concierge Desk!

After a walk in the Observatory, you may be thinking, ‘What next?’ Well, there is a concierge ready to help you answer that question right on the Sky Deck.

They can make meal reservations for you and even get you a great deal on value passes and packages. Have this concierge plan one of your trips and ask about the featured package. The concierge can book show, airline tickets, restaurant, hotel, and rental car reservations--even a private jet.

Chicago Value Pass

Purchase the ValuePass at the John Hancock Center for a day of fun in the city. This pass features one-time admission to the John Hancock Observatory and Adler Planetarium, a cruise on Shoreline Sightseeing, and a ticket to a show at Navy Pier IMAX for one price. Save more than 30 percent on these attractions with the ValuePass. It also includes transportation on the Chicago Trolley for one day. This special offer expires Oct. 1, 2009.

For more deals from businesses all over the city, check out the Concierge Preferred Chicago Values page here.

Parking

The best and most convenient place to park is at the John Hancock Center with entrances off Chestnut (westbound) and Delaware (eastbound).