Willis Tower – still called Sears Tower by locals – stands 110 stories above the coast of Chicago. When the building opened in September 1973, it was the tallest building in the world for almost 25 years. While it only ranks at No. 26 today, it is still the highest observation deck in the United States. Beyond its stature, Willis Tower is also an architectural marvel because of its “bundled tube” design. This sturdy base of supporting buildings of differing heights allows the tower to sway in the wind as well as support the weight of the 222,500-ton structure. However, views from its 103-floor glass viewing structures are not the only thing Willis Tower has to offer, as lower levels consist of a massive food court and a museum that covers Chicago’s history. From the top floor to the bottom, Willis Tower gives travelers an educational and visual spectacle.
Photo Gallery:
Willis Tower is not hard to miss in the city. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
Pictured is the bottom of Willis Tower. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
Tourists stop for food and drink inside Willis Tower. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
Dining terraces stack throughout the building. The entrance to the Skydeck is ironically reachable by first going down. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
Before ascending to the 103rd floor, Skydeck goers must walk through a fever dream of a welcome to the notable attractions of Chicago. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
A giant deep-dish pizza welcomes you to the Skydeck. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
The interior of Willis Tower houses a billboard with iconic views of the city. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
Two people observe the view of Chicago from a window in Willis Tower. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
Tourists stop and pose for pictures at the top. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
The view from the top of Willis Tower is pictured. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
The view from the top of Willis Tower is pictured. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
Visitors surround an attraction inside Chicago's Willis Tower. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
The ledge cantilevers tourists out of the building with only an inch-and-a-half of glass between them and a 103-story drop. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
The view from the top of Willis Tower is pictured. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
