What better way to view the stunning skyline of Chicago than from the 100 story perch of the John Hancock Observatory. Located at the top of the sixth tallest building in the Western Hemisphere the observatory offers uninterrupted 360 degree views of the city and Lake Michigan and across four states.
Located on North Michigan Avenue at the centre of Chicago’s famed Magnificent Mile the Hancock Observatory sits 1,000 feet above street level. Offering interactive screens in seven languages, visitors can zoom in on other Chicago landmarks and learn fun facts about the city. Why not take a step outside too and experience Chicago’s only open-air sky walk. Of course what’s a view without a good cup of coffee? Simply step back inside for your daily caffeine fix at the highest café in the city, the ‘Lavazza Espression’ café.
The sleek design and black exterior of the Hancock Center makes this building a stand-out, but not just for its outward appearance. In addition to the observatory the building is home to 700 luxury condominiums and wonderful dining options including The Cheesecake Factory, an authentic Italian café, bakery and deli called L’Appetito and of course The Signature Room, offering fine dining and excellent city views from the 95th floor. With the Hancock Center’s Magnificent Mile address visitors can of course expect to find specialty stores too from well sought after retail names.
Tickets for the observatory can be purchase in advance at the John Hancock Observatory website jhochicago.com or at the ticket counter on the buildings lower level (stairs lead down from Michigan Avenue to the building’s plaza). While the downtown area covers a large area the Hancock building at Michigan and Delaware Avenues is an easy walk from most locations. Taxis offer quick and easy transportation and buses run continuously up and down Michigan Avenue. The nearest L train stop is Chicago Avenue.
