When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Willis Tower
Why Willis Tower is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Willis Tower, formerly known as Sears Tower, stands as a magnificent 110-story skyscraper in the heart of Chicago's downtown, offering a unique and inspiring venue for friends to gather. Since its completion in 1973, it has been a defining feature of Chicago's skyline and a marvel of architecture and engineering, designed by Bruce Graham and Fazlur Rahman Khan. The tower's innovative "bundled tube" design provides both strength and aesthetic distinction, representing a groundbreaking advance in skyscraper construction. Visitors and locals alike are drawn to the Skydeck, one of the highest observation decks in the United States, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Chicago and beyond. The recently completed renovations have enhanced the Willis Tower experience by adding vibrant communal spaces such as Catalog, a retail and dining complex, and rooftop greenspaces that create inviting environments for socializing. Its central location and wide range of amenities make it an ideal meeting place to enjoy Chicago's urban energy. The blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and modern conveniences combines to make Willis Tower more than a landmark – it is a vibrant destination where friends can connect and create lasting memories.
Here's what people think of Willis Tower
As of recent, Willis Tower holds a 4.5-star rating based on 22220 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Willis Tower for its unparalleled views from the Skydeck, calling it an unforgettable experience that showcases the city from above. Many highlight the enjoyment of stepping onto The Ledge, glass boxes that extend outside the building, which provides an exhilarating and unique perspective. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness, helpful staff, and the recent renovations, including the addition of stylish dining options and green spaces that enhance the comfort and appeal of the visit. Positive reviews also mention the ease of access due to the tower's downtown location and the thoughtful curation of the retail and exhibit spaces, making it welcoming beyond just an office building. On the negative side, some reviewers have noted long wait times during peak tourist periods and high ticket prices, which can detract from the overall experience. A few comments point out that crowds can make the visit feel rushed or less personal, and accessibility for those with mobility concerns could be improved. Despite these drawbacks, the majority conclude that Willis Tower remains a must-see Chicago attraction due to its impressive history, architectural grandeur, and awe-inspiring views. Overall, visitor reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the tower’s transformation into a lively, engaging destination that honors its past while embracing the future.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jessi Lendoiro
Gorgeous views! Reason why I gave this 4 stars instead of 5 stars is because I wished there was more viewing area or even an outside section. The ledge part was super cool however … you did have a 90 second limit but that was good enough for our party of 5. You first take a group picture that they take and then the 90 seconds start. I HIGHLY recommend to time it to go during sunset time (golden hour)so you can see these gorgeous views! Seeing the city during the day and at night is amazing!! The gift shop doesn’t have bags unless you want to buy one for $5, so advise u to buy something small to put in purse or just hold it if you don’t want to buy a bag… Give yourself about 20-30 minutes to get to the top to see your views from the time you get there… they have some nice and cute photos opportunities.
Luis Roman
My first time visiting Willis Tower was truly unforgettable! From the moment we arrived, the staff was friendly and organized, making everything smooth and enjoyable. The elevator ride up to the Skydeck was fast and exciting, and once at the top, the views were absolutely breathtaking. Seeing the city of Chicago from that height was a one-of-a-kind experience! Walking onto The Ledge—standing on glass 1,353 feet in the air—was thrilling and definitely a highlight. The photo opportunities were amazing, and I felt completely safe the entire time. The entire visit was well worth it, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago for the first time. A must-see attraction!
aishwarya raj
An absolute must-visit in Chicago! The views from the Skydeck are just breathtaking — you can see the entire city . Stepping out onto The Ledge, the glass balcony, was both thrilling and a little terrifying, but totally worth it for the experience and the photos! The building itself is iconic, and the exhibit inside shares great historical and architectural facts about the tower and the city. The lines can be long, especially on weekends, so booking tickets in advance helps. Overall, it’s a fantastic way to take in the beauty of Chicago
Marie
From the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, the view of Chicago is absolutely breathtaking! 🌆✨ There’s a glass floor where you can look straight down but don’t worry, it’s totally safe! 😱 The only downside? You get 90 seconds to take your photos. Unfortunately, I only had 30 seconds because I was the second person being photographed. Next time, I’ll definitely go in alone to make the most of it! A must-see if you’re visiting Chicago, the city looks even more beautiful from up there! 📸💙
Usman Farooq
Absolutely beautiful building. Willis Tower currently stands as the 3rd tallest building in the US! It was a pleasure to visit it. I also visited the observation deck which was nice too. Overall, interior was nice too and there were plenty of food options inside as well. Must visit!
How to reach Willis Tower
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Why Willis Tower may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Willis Tower with your friends?
Willis Tower is much more than an iconic Chicago skyscraper — it is a spectacular social and sightseeing destination that offers an unforgettable shared experience. Rallying your friends here means immersing yourselves in a blend of breathtaking views, thrilling activities, and rich local culture all wrapped into one. At 1,353 feet high, the Skydeck observation deck on the 103rd floor presents a stunning 360-degree panorama where you can see the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and even four states on a clear day. Sharing this awe-inspiring vantage point creates a vibrant bond and lasting memories. The adrenaline rush of stepping out onto The Ledge’s glass boxes, which extend out over 4 feet from the building’s side, adds a unique thrill and a perfect photo op for your group. Beyond the views, Willis Tower features interactive exhibits, immersive art installations, and rooftop green spaces, offering a multi-faceted environment where everyone in your group can discover something exciting. Its convenient downtown location and accessible amenities make it an ideal spot to gather, whether for a casual meetup, celebration, or an adventurous day out with friends or family.
What activities can you do with friends at Willis Tower and why are they perfect for groups?
The centerpiece experience at Willis Tower is the Skydeck Chicago, the highest observation deck in the United States. When you and your friends ride the express elevator at 24 feet per second to the 103rd floor, anticipation builds quickly. On arrival, you can explore the breathtaking city views stretching up to 50 miles, covering Chicago and parts of Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. This vista alone makes the Tower a remarkable place to gather, allowing your group to share moments of wonder together. The Skydeck includes an interactive museum that educates visitors about Chicago’s history, architecture, and culture, perfect for sparking conversations and group engagement. For thrill-seekers, The Ledge offers an unparalleled experience: glass balconies extending from the building that create a sensation of walking on air above the city. This shared thrill is ideal for creating adventurous memories and fun photo opportunities for everyone.
Adjacent to the Skydeck, The Color Factory offers a contrasting activity focused on immersive and colorful interactive art. The factory is famed as a top immersive art experience in the US, with 14 vibrant exhibits featuring playful environments such as sweet treat rooms, a confetti-filled Chicago flag-inspired space, and delightful ice cream displays. It’s perfect for groups because it encourages creativity, exploration, and fun through various interactive installations. Free digital photos at the exhibits make it easy for friends to capture and share their experiences, deepening the social connection.
Willis Tower’s atmosphere combines entertainment with relaxation through its retail and dining options in the multi-level Catalog area. The collection features a variety of grab-and-go food outlets where groups can easily pick up snacks or meals to enjoy together. With an environment designed to accommodate groups, it supports spontaneous conversations, breaks, and casual dining. The outdoor Terrace garden also provides an open-air greenspace to lounge and enjoy spectacular skyline views, creating a refreshing reprieve ideal for group hangouts that combine city energy with nature.
Are there special events and exclusive experiences at Willis Tower suited for groups?
Yes, Willis Tower hosts several special events and curated experiences that are particularly appealing for group gatherings. One unique offering is the Up, Up & Away Yoga classes, held 99 stories above Chicago on the Skydeck. This elevated yoga session combines wellness, community, and one of the best views in the city, providing a unique group workout experience that’s both inspiring and memorable. For those interested in more communal or celebratory occasions, Willis Tower boasts extensive meeting and event spaces spanning 70,000 square feet, suitable for private parties, corporate meetups, or social celebrations. These venues provide sophisticated settings enhanced by the tower’s iconic views, making any event exceptional.
Willis Tower also features exclusive tenant lounges and a private club atmosphere on floors 66 and 67 designed for networking and relaxation. This aspirational environment adds a layer of refined social interaction, ideal for professional groups or friends seeking an elevated meet-and-greet experience. Additionally, the building supports community programming such as Women of Willis, fostering empowerment and connection through talks, panels, and workshops. These curated community events enrich the social fabric of the space and provide group visitors opportunities to engage with creative and collaborative initiatives during their visit.
What makes Willis Tower’s location and facilities ideal for hosting a group meetup?
Situated strategically in downtown Chicago at 233 S. Wacker Drive, Willis Tower is easily accessible by public transit, rideshare, and main roadways, making it convenient for your entire group to arrive without hassle. The building’s south-side entrance on Jackson Boulevard leads directly to the Skydeck, minimizing time spent navigating and allowing your group to dive straight into the experience. The Tower’s operating hours, from early morning until late evening, offer groups flexibility to schedule meetups fitting everyone’s availability, whether it’s sunrise sightseeing, sunset views, or after-dinner relaxation.
Willis Tower’s comprehensive accessibility services, including expedited entry options and dedicated VIP lanes, ensure that groups with diverse needs and ages can enjoy the experience comfortably and efficiently. Ticketing options allow you to plan your visit and skip long lines, particularly important for larger groups. The presence of diverse amenities — from interactive museum exhibits and retail to public green spaces — means your meetup can include varied activities to suit differing group interests and energy levels without needing to leave the building.
The building itself embodies Chicago’s architectural heritage and modern vibrancy, providing a stimulating backdrop for any group event. Its contained but multi-dimensional environment encourages exploration, conversation, and shared discovery, all key ingredients for meaningful gatherings. Whether your group is drawn to the rush of heights, interactive art, dining, or networking, Willis Tower brings all these elements together, making it an unparalleled destination for hosting memorable social meetups.
How do Willis Tower’s attractions compare for group entertainment and social connection?
Willis Tower stands out among Chicago’s many attractions by combining intellectual engagement, visual spectacle, and active participation in a single location. The Skydeck’s panoramic observation deck offers a universal wow factor appreciated by all ages and interests, making it an accessible rallying point. When combined with the adjacent immersive art experiences like The Color Factory, the space expands beyond a simple tourist stop into a venue where creativity, exploration, and photogenic fun unite. Group members can bond through shared challenges like stepping onto the glass ledge or engage in lighter moments navigating colorful interactive rooms.
The curated public installations, the rooftop greenspace, and the modern dining retail environment add layers of social atmosphere and comfort to the experience. Many similar urban landmarks offer views or exhibitions, but few provide the seamless mixture of high-adrenaline thrills, cultural depth, wellness activities, and business networking opportunities that Willis Tower does. This versatility makes it a compelling choice when planning an event or casual gathering that needs to cater to diverse tastes and moods within a group.
In summary, Willis Tower is an exceptional place to host a meetup with friends or family because it balances extraordinary visual experiences with interactive, artistic, and community-focused activities. Its thoughtful design supports connection, conversation, and fun at every turn, creating an environment where groups can thrive and create lasting memories together.