When you’re planning a family trip to Chicago, chances are both 360 Chicago at the John Hancock Center and the Skydeck at Willis Tower pop up on your list. They both promise incredible views and unforgettable photo ops – but which one’s really worth it for kids?
On our recent mother-daughter weekend in Chicago, we visited both. From sipping cocoa high above the city to standing on glass 103 stories up, we got the full skyline experience – and some strong opinions from my kids along the way.
Here’s our honest comparison of 360 Chicago vs. Skydeck, what families can expect at each, and which one my kids voted the winner.
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TL;DR: 360 Chicago vs. Skydeck for Families
If you only have time for one Chicago observation deck, here’s the quick take:
- Best overall for kids: Skydeck Chicago – It’s interactive, educational, and thrilling, with museum-style exhibits and the famous glass boxes known as The Ledge. You can take your own photos.
- Best for younger kids or a calmer visit: 360 Chicago – Quieter and scenic, with a café, lake views, and a fun optional TILT experience (photos not allowed, though they will take photos for you that you can purchase.)
- Location tip: 360 Chicago is right by American Girl Place and The Drake Hotel (perfect for afternoon tea), while Skydeck is next to Color Factory for another kid-favorite stop.
💡 You can save a few dollars by booking online instead of at the door.
👉 Buy Skydeck Chicago tickets here
👉 Buy 360 Chicago tickets here
Quick Comparison – 360 Chicago vs. Skydeck at a Glance
If you’re trying to decide which Chicago observation deck to visit with your family, this quick guide breaks down the main differences. Below, you’ll see Chicago observation decks compared side by side – everything from height and views to kid-friendliness and wait times. Whether you’re leaning toward Skydeck vs. 360 Chicago with kids, this chart will help you pick the one that fits your family best.
| Feature | 360 Chicago | Skydeck Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Location | 875 N Michigan Ave (John Hancock Center) | Willis Tower, 233 S Wacker Dr |
| Height | 1,030 ft (94th floor) | 1,353 ft (103rd floor) |
| Pre-Tower Experience | Limited | Hands-on, interactive exhibits and information |
| Main Experience | TILT glass platform (photos not allowed; available for purchase) | The Ledge glass boxes (photos allowed) |
| Lines & Wait Time | Usually shorter | Longer lines |
| Best For | Views of Lake Michigan, calmer vibe | Dramatic height, thrill seekers |
| Age Suitability | Great for all ages (TILT is optional for an extra fee) | Great for all ages (The Ledge is optional and included with admission) |
| Nearby Kid-Friendly Attractions | American Girl Place, Afternoon Tea at The Drake | The Color Factory |
Visiting 360 Chicago with Kids
What We Loved
360 Chicago is in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, just steps from kid-friendly favorites like Afternoon Tea at The Drake and the American Girl Place. You’ll head straight to the elevator (after a brief, neon-lit hallway with a few Chicago facts) and arrive to breathtaking views.
Each window labels the neighborhoods below, which makes it fun to spot where you’ve already explored. There’s also a café and gift shop, perfect for hot cocoa, apple cider, or lemonade depending on the season.
We all tried TILT, the moving glass platform that leans you 30 degrees over Michigan Avenue. It wasn’t too scary—my kids thought it was cool more than anything—and it’s impressive to read how strong the mechanism is (it can lift the equivalent of four elephants!).
What We Didn’t Love
You can’t take photos or videos during the TILT experience unless you’ve arranged a media pass ahead of time. Staff photographers take pictures for purchase afterward, but we would have loved to capture our own.
Overall, 360 Chicago felt calm, scenic, and easy for younger kids, but less interactive.
💡 Tickets often sell out during weekends and holidays, so it’s best to reserve your spot in advance.
👉 Buy 360 Chicago tickets here
Visiting Skydeck Chicago with Kids
What We Loved
Skydeck Chicago with kids is a completely different kind of adventure. It’s on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, and felt much more like an interactive museum. Before you even reach the elevators, there are Chicago-themed exhibits, colorful photo ops, and short reads about the city’s history that kept my kids engaged.
Even the elevator ride is immersive – lights dim, music swells, and you watch yourself “rise” above Chicago’s skyline.
At the top, the views are just as incredible (with clear sightlines to Millennium Park and the lake), and the line for The Ledge – the famous glass boxes that extend out from the tower – only took about ten minutes on a Sunday afternoon in October.
They give each group 90 seconds on the glass box, so we had to plan our poses – handstands, jump shots, the works! If you want another turn, you can hop right back in line, but then you’ll have to wait again.
If you’re wondering “Is Skydeck worth it with kids?” – for us, the answer was absolutely yes.
Bonus for Families
The Skydeck is next door to the Color Factory, another bright, hands-on spot that’s perfect for kids, so it’s easy to make a full afternoon of it.
What We Didn’t Love
It can get crowded, especially on weekends, but weekday visits are much calmer.
💡 Save money by buying online before you head out.
👉 Buy 360 Chicago tickets here
Which One’s Better for Kids?
While I loved the peaceful vibe and easy location of 360 Chicago, my kids (ages 9 and 11) unanimously voted for Skydeck. They loved the hands-on exhibits, the immersive elevator ride, and (of course) standing on glass over the city streets.
If you have younger kids or want a quieter, shorter visit, start with 360 Chicago. If you have school-age kids or teens who love thrills and photo ops, go for Skydeck – and maybe pop into Color Factory while you’re there.
Family Tips for Visiting Chicago’s Observation Decks
If you’re planning to visit one (or both!) of Chicago’s observation decks with your family, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are a few tips to make the experience smooth, memorable, and fun for everyone:
- Buy timed tickets online. This helps you skip long lines and choose a less-crowded time slot, especially if you’re visiting with younger kids.
- Pack small snacks and water. While food and drinks aren’t allowed on the actual decks, it’s smart to have something on hand for before or after your visit.
- Aim for sunset. The views are breathtaking, and kids love watching the city lights flicker on below.
- Combine it with nearby attractions. Both spots are surrounded by things to do in Chicago with kids downtown—like Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, Navy Pier, or the colorful Color Factory next to Skydeck.
- Go on a weekday if you can. You’ll find shorter waits, easier parking, and more relaxed photo opportunities.
💡 You can save a few dollars by booking online instead of at the door.
👉 Buy Skydeck Chicago tickets here
👉 Buy 360 Chicago tickets here
Plan Your Visit
Hours: Both 360 Chicago and Skydeck are open daily, but hours vary by season.
Tickets: Buying timed tickets online will help you skip lines.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or early mornings for fewer crowds.
Location:
- 360 Chicago: 875 N. Michigan Ave (John Hancock Center)
- Skydeck: Willis Tower, 233 S. Wacker Dr.
📍 Pro Tip: If you’re visiting multiple attractions, consider the CityPASS Chicago (affiliate link) to save on admission.
Whether you go for the thrill of The Ledge or the calm views at 360, both make unforgettable memories for families visiting Chicago.
Ready to plan your trip? Check out our Best Things to Do in Chicago with Kids for more family fun ideas nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Chicago’s Observation Decks
Skydeck is higher. It’s located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, about 1,353 feet up. 360 Chicago, inside the John Hancock Center, sits on the 94th floor at about 1,030 feet. Both offer incredible skyline views, but Skydeck takes the win for height.
Not really. Most kids find 360 Chicago exciting rather than scary. The TILT experience—where the glass platform leans you 30 degrees over Michigan Avenue—looks intense but feels secure. You can skip it if your kids aren’t sure, and still enjoy amazing views from the main deck.
Yes! Skydeck Chicago with kids is a blast. The interactive exhibits before the elevator ride make it feel like a museum, and The Ledge—those clear glass boxes—is pure fun for kids (and great for photos). Just plan your timing to avoid crowds if possible.
Plan for about 45–60 minutes at 360 Chicago, depending on how long you stay to enjoy the views or grab a drink at the café. If you add TILT, allow another 10–15 minutes for that experience.
Most families spend about 60–90 minutes at Skydeck Chicago. The experience includes exhibits before the elevator ride, time on the 103rd-floor deck, and of course your photos on The Ledge. If it’s busy, add extra time for lines or multiple photo turns.
Yes. Strollers are allowed at Skydeck Chicago, though you’ll need to fold them during the elevator ride and when stepping onto The Ledge. Both Skydeck and 360 Chicago are stroller- and wheelchair-accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout.
For fewer crowds and softer light, aim for weekday mornings or right before sunset. Sunset is especially beautiful—kids love watching the city transform as the lights come on below.
You can! They’re only a few miles apart, so it’s easy to do both if you plan ahead. Try 360 Chicago in the morning (when it’s calmer) and Skydeck closer to sunset for a totally different view of the skyline.
Related Post: Quirky Chicago Museums Your Kids Will Love
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
