John Hancock Observatory

02/28/11

should be closed during fundraising events...40 min wait

by supersquirrels

We had purchased tickets in advance of our trip to Chicago. We arrived only to discover that there was a hike/climb of the tower & we had to wait 40+ minutes to take an elevator up or down. Once in the observatory it was sweaty, hot, and you are trapped without a chair until you can go down. It was not first-come first-served, and rather all the parents & children were hustled in front of us, causing even longer waits to get up to the observatory or back down the elevators. The staff seemed frazzled, and in our opinion, the entire observatory should have been closed and tickets refunded to tourists... as with any race or fundraising event, close it down except to those participating. It wasn't worth the money for the view. It's a good view, but not spectacular. There are more impressive sites the world over...save your money.

12/21/09

Really interesting, great views

by SarahBethK

I really liked going to the John Hancock Observatory. It was really interesting. I loved the little sound recorder that told us about the different buildings and the history of Chicago. It was David Schwimmer's voice (Ross from Friends) If it was just some nobody spouting off boring facts in my ear it would have been boring. Schwimmer made it interesting and fun.

• Pros: interestings, great views

07/14/09

Best view on the north side

by GorgeousGirl

With the exception of the Sears tower this is the best view from any building in Chicago. It's a must for Chicago tourists. I love the view of the lake when you look east from here and the restauarant upstairs is amazing too. Great place to hang out

• Pros: Amazing view
• Cons: Not as good as the Sears

11/25/07

Better than Sears

by jericsmall

The view from the Hancock Observatory is probably the best in the city. The observatory itself is kind of weak, and the lines can be long, but you're here for the view anyway, right? For up top, you can sometimes make out Michigan and if it's super super clear, Wisconsin. You get sweeping views of the lake beaches from way up north to around the bend down south. Lake Shore Drive is beautiful up here at night. As is Navy Pier. Plan on about 45 minutes to enjoy it all, plus 15-30 minutes in lines.

10/18/05

great way to see Chicago

by mattystrappy

It was beautiful being at the observatory at night. It would have been more romantic if there hadn't been so many noisy kids there. If you do go, try to go as late as possible. Also, go when you have some time, because you'll have to wait in line for the elevator both to go up and down.

• Pros: awesome view, romantic music, outdoor section
• Cons: noisy kids