Sears Tower and Skydeck

08/29/2005 Posted by bluehensfan

Good view (not suprirising) but the view seemed just as good at the John Hancock tower likely due to the proximity of Lake Michigan. The problem with the Sears Tower Observatory is they try to make the whole experience Disney-esque by subjecting you to a 15-minute movie on Chicago prior to boarding the elevator. Make sure to sit up front and to the left when watching the movie because the doors open to the elevator there. Prior to going up, you get your picture taken and can get the photo (along with other souvenirs) after you return to ground level.

08/27/2004 Posted by rovers

It has a good view but if you have to choose between the Sears tower and the Hancock Building I would take the later. Another option is to do what we did the first time we went. We did the John Hancock building during the day (beautiful views of the Lake) and the Sears tower at night for a totally different look.

Pros: great view

02/13/2004 Posted by carigee

I recently traveled to Chicago and HAD to visit the Sears Tower Skydeck. After all, it's the tallest building in the US. BUT, after purchasing the Chicago CityPass, I visited the John Hancock Building Observatory. The view is more spectacular than at Sears. "Big John" also has an outside terrace where you can feel the Chicago cold, as well as hear all the Chicago sounds. The best part is a 'take your own photo' set of Washing the Windows at Big John. My friends and I had a blast just acting silly. It was one of our favorite souvenirs of our Chicago trip. When visiting definitely visit Big John!

Pros: inexpensive, history

01/27/2004 Posted by cghooper84

I enjoyed going up in the SEARS TOWER. I am active duty NAVY therefore it was/is free for us. I cannot get enough of a view of it. I have been in it three times and i loved it each time. The view is magnificant and the people are great. It is worth the wait.

Pros: VIEW, INTERACTION, HISTORY

Cons: PRICE, LONG LINES/WAIT

08/08/2002 Posted by jank

the best place to get a wonderful bird's eye view of the city-and four states on a clear day! would recommend it highly to all my out of town friends and family.

Pros: accessable

Cons: crowded

07/26/2002 Posted by dorlandoll

Great experience, and a must do, as it represents Chicago.

Pros: Expense, reasonable, easy

Cons: need good weather, no snacks, no place to rest

07/26/2002 Posted by nitsirt

Sears tower is a lot of fun to see because of its importance as a widely known landmark, and because of the amazing views. Chicago is a truly great city and the skydeck allows you to see it all from one of the best perspectives: from above.

Pros: whole family can enjo, see the entire city, facilities are great

Cons: needs better parking

07/09/2002 Posted by Lee611

Living within 60 miles of Chicago, I visit often. The Sears Tower is a must see at least once a year for me. No matter what the season or time of day, I am always impressed.

06/27/2002 Posted by cspeering

The best view of the city is accessible to everyone. You don't have to be a tourist to enjoy the Sears skydeck. It's pretty amazing - on a clear day, I swear you can see the Mississippi. If you don't mind watching a little Opra video on the tour, I would say it's a great thing to do - at least once.

06/12/2002 Posted by izelmorena

I was taken to the Sears Skydeck when I was visiting your lovely city. I'll have to admit the ride up was a bit uneasy. The elevator lifts off and your ears pop about two or three times. They also PACK each elevator to the top and on the way down as well. Which makes the ride a little uncomfortable. But once you're at the top, the view is spectacular. Chicago's history and facts line the walls in the center of the floor. Exhibits for small children and adults a like give a glimpse into Chicago's past. All the way around is a breath taking view of the city and lake. A must do if you're visiting Chicago.

Pros: Historic Facts, View, For the Family

Cons: PACKED Elevator Ride