15 Chicago Views That Beat Willis Tower (For Halfthe Price)

While tourists queue for hours to reach Willis Tower’s Skydeck, savvy visitors know
Chicago offers numerous spectacular viewpoints that won’t break the bank or test
their patience. From hidden rooftop bars to lesser-known observation decks, these
alternatives provide unique perspectives on the Windy City’s legendary skyline.

These 15 viewpoints not only offer budget-friendly options but often more intimate
and authentic Chicago experiences than their famous counterparts.

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck – John Hancock Building

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Located 94 floors above Michigan Avenue, this observation deck offers better views
of Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile than Willis Tower at a lower price point.
The TILT experience, while extra, provides a unique downward-facing view of the
city that you can’t get anywhere else.

The best part is that sunset visits often have minimal waiting times, especially on weekdays.

Cindy’s Rooftop at Chicago Athletic Association

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This glass-roofed restaurant provides stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake
Michigan while you dine or enjoy craft cocktails. The outdoor terrace offers
unobstructed photos of ‘The Bean’ from above, making it a photographer’s dream
spot.

The historic building’s Gothic architecture adds an extra layer of visual interest to the experience.

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North Avenue Beach

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This free viewpoint offers a postcard-perfect view of the entire skyline reflected in
Lake Michigan’s waters. The beach’s boathouse, designed to look like an ocean
liner, provides elevated viewing platforms accessible year-round.

Sunrise visits offer the most dramatic photo opportunities as the morning light illuminates the buildings from the east.

Promontory Point – Hyde Park

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This man-made peninsula juts into Lake Michigan, providing a unique perspective of
the skyline from the south. The limestone steps leading to the water create natural
seating for skyline viewing or wave-watching.

The historic field house designed by Alfred Caldwell offers shelter and additional viewing spots during inclement weather.

London House Rooftop Bar

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Set in a historic 1920s building, this rooftop bar offers eye-level views of the iconic
Wrigley Building and Michigan Avenue Bridge. The multi-level outdoor space
includes a private cupola perfect for intimate skyline viewing.

Despite its upscale atmosphere, the price of a drink here costs less than a Willis Tower ticket.

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Adler Planetarium Campus

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The peninsula housing the planetarium offers arguably the best free skyline photos
in the city. The stepped terraces provide multiple levels for setting up tripods or
simply enjoying the view.

The location is particularly magical during full moons when the light reflects off both the lake and the buildings.

Lincoln Park Zoo Nature Boardwalk

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This free location features a unique honeycomb-shaped pavilion that perfectly
frames the skyline. The elevated wooden walkway provides clear views across the
South Pond to downtown.

Wildlife photographers often catch herons and other water birds in the foreground of their skyline shots.

31st Street Harbor

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This modern marina offers an unexpected southerly view of the skyline that most
tourists never see. The harbor’s wave-shaped architecture provides multiple elevated
viewing platforms.

Sunset brings the bonus of boats returning to port silhouetted against the golden-lit buildings.

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Signature Lounge at the 96th

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Located above the Hancock’s observation deck, this bar offers similar views without
an entrance fee – just the cost of a drink. Window tables are first-come-first-served,
but the wait is usually shorter than the Willis Tower lines.

The women’s restroom features one of the most photographed views in Chicago through its floor-to-ceiling windows.

Milton Lee Olive Park

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This peaceful park near Navy Pier provides breathtaking views of the skyline
reflecting in the lake’s five circular fountains. The park’s relative obscurity means
you’ll often have the views to yourself, especially at sunrise.

The location honors a Vietnam War hero and provides a more contemplative viewing experience than busier tourist spots.

Montrose Harbor Point

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This northerly viewpoint captures the density of Chicago’s lakefront high-rises in one
sweeping panorama. The harbor’s stone revetments create perfect perches for
fishing or photography.

Bird watchers particularly appreciate this spot during migration seasons when the skyline serves as a backdrop to arriving flocks.

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Chicago Riverwalk

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The recently completed riverwalk provides multiple viewing angles of the city’s
architectural canyon from water level. Each of the six distinct sections offers unique
perspectives on different aspects of the skyline.

The location is particularly spectacular during the annual dyeing of the river for St. Patrick’s Day.

Ping Tom Memorial Park

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This Chinatown park offers a unique perspective of the skyline rising above the St.
Charles Air Line Bridge. The Chinese-style pavilion provides covered viewing during
inclement weather.

Water taxi service to the park adds an extra adventure to reaching this viewpoint.

The Columbia Yacht Club

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This converted lighthouse ship permanently moored in Monroe Harbor offers public
access to its deck during certain hours. The ship’s elevation provides a perfect mid-
level view of the skyline right at the heart of Grant Park.

Maritime history buffs particularly appreciate the unique vantage point from this historic vessel.

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18th Street Bridge

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This industrial-area bridge offers unobstructed views of the South Loop skyline
reflected in the Chicago River. The abandoned rail lines and working drawbridge add
interesting foreground elements to photos.

The location is particularly dramatic during stormy weather when dark clouds gather behind the buildings.

Discover Chicago’s Local Secrets

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These alternative viewpoints prove that Chicago’s best views don’t require the
highest price tag or the longest wait times. Each location offers its unique
perspective on the city, often with fascinating historical or cultural context that adds
depth to the experience.

Whether you’re a photographer seeking the perfect shot, a budget traveler looking to
save money, or simply someone who prefers discovering local secrets, these spots
provide memorable views of Chicago’s magnificent skyline without the tourist
crowds.

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