Live on the Edge of the Ledge at Chicago’s Willis Tower
Those who have visited sky-high Willis Tower in Chicago, Illinois on a windy day know what it feels like when the 103rd floor of a skyscraper sways in the wind like a palm tree. If swaying back and forth in a conventional room isn’t thrilling enough for you, consider standing on one of Willis Tower’s glass Ledges. The Ledges—which were completed in 2009—allow visitors to stand in a series of compact glass boxes which offer viewers one of the most stunning panoramic city views in North America.
Though the glass Ledges may appear flimsy, they are designed to support nearly 5 tons. That means you and several of your closest friends can seemingly hover above the city of Chicago all at once. The Ledges offer a spectacular view of Lake Michigan, Wrigley Field, Navy Pier, and countless other Windy City hotspots. On a clear day, occupants of the Ledges can see all the way to Kenosha, Wisconsin.
The Ledges of Willis Tower were constructed because one too many visitors left greasy hand and forehead prints on the 103rd floor’s oversized windows in an attempt to get the best possible view of Chicago. The supports for the Ledges have been in existence since the building—which was once known as the Sears Tower—was first constructed in 1974. Cleaning and maintenance crews formerly used retractable ledges to keep Chicago’s tallest building in working order.
If you have ever wondered what it would be like to be a fearless window washer tasked with keeping the windows of a towering skyscraper streak free, the Ledges of Willis Tower can offer you a glimpse into that thrilling life. Just be sure to keep your hands and your forehead away from the glass so that you don’t add to the workload of one of Chicago’s brave window washers.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower, 233 S Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Coordinates
- 41.87851, -87.63589
- Access
- Enter Skydeck on Jackson Boulevard on the south side of Willis Tower. The operator recommends advance timed tickets and arrival 15 minutes before the reserved slot. Skydeck and The Ledge are ADA-accessible; complimentary wheelchairs are available first-come, with advance requests accepted.
- Admission
- General admission starts at $32 for ages 12+ and $22 for ages 3–11; children under 3 are free. It includes the Chicago Museum, observation deck and The Ledge. Prices vary by date and time. Expedited entry starts at $55 for ages 3+; under 3 are free. Advance booking is recommended.
- Time needed
- Most guests spend about 45–60 minutes, including the museum, observation deck and The Ledge; peak periods may take longer.
- Best season
- The operator does not designate a best season. Skydeck is open year-round; it recommends early morning for shorter lines or arriving at least 30 minutes before sunset for skyline views. Visibility depends on weather.
- Opening hours
- Winter schedule (October 1–February 28): Monday–Sunday 09:00–20:00; Saturday 09:00–21:00. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing. Skydeck says it is open 365 days a year; hours change seasonally, so check the operator calendar.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-26
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-19
Location
Use the zoom buttons or pinch to zoom. Use arrow keys to pan when the map is focused.
Interactive map loads when in view.
Explorer Passport
Next badge: Trail Scout
Unlocked after exploring 5 different unusual places.
0 of 5 places explored
Discover more from Unusual Places
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
