Tower Story
A bustling community of business, tourism and culture, Willis Tower is so much more than North America’s second tallest building. It’s home to large well-known companies as well as hundreds of thriving businesses. It is a cultural landmark and iconic Chicago tourist attraction. Willis Tower is a pivotal point of reference – from across town, from financial centers on both coasts, and from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. It’s a building with retail and commercial office space at heart, but also inspires millions of visitors to take in the amazing views of the city and experience the breathtaking Ledge.
Observation Deck
No trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to the The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago! Enjoy 360 degree views spanning up to 50 miles and 4 states and our most spectacular view-1,353 feet straight down. The Skydeck attracts over 1.7 million guests from all over the world. The Ledge – glass balconies extending 4.3 feet outside the building provide a thrilling, once in a lifetime experience with another unforgettable view over Wacker Drive and the Chicago River.
Address
233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 3530, Chicago, IL 60606
Contact
T: 13.128.753.643Facts & Statistics
Architects
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Inauguration date
September 1973
Construction time
3 years
Construction cost
Over 175 million
Total height
1,450 feet, 1730 including twin antennae
Weight
222,500 tons
Cables
25,000 miles of electrical cable, 43,000 miles of telephone cable
Concrete
2 billion cubic feet
Depth below ground
43 feet below street elevation
Number of windows
16,100
Number of elevators
104
Elevators capacity
15-28
Elevators speed
1,200 feet per minute
Elevator manufacturer
Westinghouse
Max people working on tower at any one time during construction
2,000
Number of broadcasting facilities
Proprietary
Number of steps up to the top
2,232
Steel quantity used for construction
76,000 tons
Length of antenna
280 feet
Sway of antenna from core
Building sways 6 inches from true center; designed to withstand up to 3 feet
Unique features of the tower
9 bundled tube design to handle both wind and gravity, two signature white antennae, The Ledge, sleek black building with bronze tinted windows