360 CHICAGO is one of the most impressive observation decks in the United States, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists each year eager for unforgettable views of the third largest city in the US. Located on the 94th floor of the former John Hancock Center, now known simply as 875 North Michigan Avenue, it offers a panoramic view of the metropolis from 314 meters above the ground.

The history of the site dates back to 1969, when the skyscraper designed by famous architect Bruce Graham of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill was completed. The distinctive structure with black diagonal steel beams on the outside of the building has become one of the most recognizable elements of the Chicago skyline. Originally known as the John Hancock Observatory, the observation deck underwent a major renovation in 2014, when it was renamed 360 CHICAGO, emphasizing its main attraction - a panoramic view encompassing a full 360 degrees.

What sets 360 CHICAGO apart from other observation decks is the incredible perspective from which to view Chicago's architectural wonders. The terrace overlooks the famous Magnificent Mile, an exclusive shopping street that runs along North Michigan Avenue. On sunny days, you can see as many as four states: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan, as well as admire the boundless surface of Lake Michigan, which shimmers in all shades of blue when the weather is right.

Note the landmarks of the Chicago skyline visible from the terrace. To the north you can see the elegant Gold Coast and Lincoln Park neighborhoods with their distinctive buildings and green spaces. To the south, you have a view of downtown with iconic skyscrapers such as Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), Trump Tower and the Aon Center. To the west, you can enjoy the sprawling suburbs of Chicago, and to the east, the boundless waters of Lake Michigan, which on sunny days resemble the ocean.

The 360 CHICAGO observation deck is equipped with state-of-the-art telescopes that allow a closer look at the various elements of the skyline. For photography enthusiasts, there are special places from which to take the best pictures without reflections in the glass. You should also take advantage of the interactive touch screens, which provide information on the history of the city and its most important buildings.

An interesting part of a visit to 360 CHICAGO is the opportunity to learn about the city's history through multimedia exhibits. Before going upstairs, visitors can explore the 'Chicago Neighborhoods' presentation, which takes a closer look at the cultural and architectural diversity of the city's various neighborhoods. This exhibit is updated regularly and provides an excellent introduction to exploring Chicago.

For those who want to experience more than just admiring the sights, 360 CHICAGO offers a number of special events. There are regular sunrise yoga sessions, evenings with live music or special shows during the Navy Pier fireworks. Particularly popular are the 'Sunset 360' events, where you can enjoy the sunset over Chicago with music and a glass of wine in hand.

Also worth mentioning is the 'Architect's Corner Café & Bar', which is located on the observation deck. It offers a wide selection of drinks and snacks that can be enjoyed while admiring the city skyline. The bar's menu is inspired by Chicago architecture, and the names of the drinks refer to famous buildings and architects associated with the city.

One of the most exciting and unique 360 CHICAGO attractions is undoubtedly TILT, the first of its kind in the United States, which opened in 2014. TILT is a series of specially designed glass boxes that can accommodate up to eight people at a time and literally 'tilt' outward from the building, offering visitors the unforgettable experience of looking down from a height of more than 300 meters at a 30-degree angle.

The TILT structure is a true marvel of engineering. It consists of eight glass panels, each measuring about 1.2 by 2.1 meters, which are mounted on a special hydraulic mechanism. Upon entering the box, visitors grasp the metal railings, and then the entire structure slowly tilts outward from the building, offering a view that is literally breathtaking. The entire process takes about a minute, giving you enough time to fully experience this extreme attraction and take souvenir photos.

Safety is of course a top priority in the design and operation of TILT. The structure was designed by renowned engineering firm Thornton Tomasetti and has passed rigorous safety tests. Each glass panel consists of three layers of tempered glass that can withstand extreme weather conditions, including the high winds that are characteristic of Chicago. The hydraulic system that controls tilting is regularly checked and maintained to ensure smooth and safe operation.

The TILT experience comes at an additional cost beyond the standard 360 CHICAGO observation deck ticket, but many visitors find it worth paying extra for this unique experience. Prices are moderate given the uniqueness of the attraction, and tickets can be purchased on site or in advance online, which is recommended during the peak tourist season to avoid long queues.

Visitors' reactions to TILT range from excitement and delight to fear and anxiety. For many, it is a test of courage and overcoming a fear of heights. The 360 CHICAGO staff is well prepared to help those who may feel uncomfortable on the attraction, and it is always possible to cancel at the last minute if the fear proves too strong.

It is worth mentioning that TILT offers not only extreme entertainment, but also an educational experience. As you tilt around the outside of the building, you can get a great look at the architectural details of the surrounding skyscrapers and the layout of Chicago's streets from a perspective that is unavailable anywhere else. This is especially interesting for architecture and urban planning enthusiasts.

For those who want to immortalize their TILT experience, a professional photography service is available. Special cameras mounted in the box take photos while tilting, which can later be purchased as souvenirs. Many visitors also choose to record the entire experience with GoPro cameras or smartphones, which is allowed as long as the devices are properly secured.

TILT has become one of the most recognizable elements of Chicago's tourism offerings and is often listed in guidebooks as a 'must-see' attraction for visitors to the city. Its uniqueness and innovation attracts not only tourists, but also Chicagoans who want to see their city from a whole new perspective.

It's also worth mentioning that TILT is regularly used as a backdrop for a variety of special events, such as proposal parties, photo shoots or even small, intimate celebrations. 360 CHICAGO offers special packages for those who want to organize a special event using this spectacular attraction.

When planning your visit to 360 CHICAGO, there are a few practical tips to help you make the most of this extraordinary experience. The observation deck is open year-round, seven days a week, giving you flexibility in scheduling your visit. Standard opening hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., with the last ascent at 10:30 p.m., although hours may be extended during the summer season and on weekends. It is always a good idea to check the current opening hours on the official 360 CHICAGO website before planning a visit.

Admission prices to the observation deck can be described as average compared to similar attractions in other major American cities. A variety of ticket options are available, including standard tickets, discounted tickets for children, seniors and Chicago residents, as well as family tickets that offer better value for groups. The additional TILT attraction requires the purchase of a separate ticket, which is moderately priced. Consider buying tickets online in advance, which not only avoids queues at ticket counters, but often comes with small discounts.

For those who want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit is the morning hours on weekdays. Weekends, holidays and the afternoon and evening hours, especially during sunset, are usually the most crowded. However, if you are keen on admiring the city's skyline in the light of the setting sun, it is advisable to book in advance and prepare for a larger number of visitors.

The weather in Chicago is changeable and can significantly affect the experience of visiting 360 CHICAGO. On sunny days, visibility can reach up to 80 kilometers, allowing you to see not only the entire city, but also the surrounding states. On the other hand, a foggy or rainy day may limit visibility, but offers another, equally fascinating view of the city shrouded in clouds. In winter, when Chicago is covered with snow, the skyline takes on a completely different character, and the view of frozen Lake Michigan is truly spectacular.

It is worth remembering that Chicago is nicknamed the 'Windy City' for a reason. Strong winds are a common occurrence here, especially at high altitudes. Although the building itself and the observation deck are designed to minimize the sensation of wind, on particularly windy days it is possible to experience a slight swaying of the building, which is normal for tall structures. For some people, this can be an added attraction, for others - a cause for concern, so it's worth being prepared for it.

For those with limited mobility, 360 CHICAGO is fully accessible. The building is equipped with elevators that quickly transport visitors to the 94th floor, and the observation deck itself is designed with accessibility in mind for all visitors. Staff are trained to assist people with a variety of needs, and wheelchairs are available on site.

If you're planning a visit with children, 360 CHICAGO offers a number of attractions tailored to younger visitors. Interactive touchscreens with educational games, special telescopes at a height suitable for children, and the 'Junior Explorer' program, which encourages the youngest to explore the Chicago skyline through play, make the visit appealing to the whole family.

The opportunity to purchase souvenirs is also worth mentioning. The gift store on the observation deck offers a wide selection of products related to Chicago and 360 CHICAGO itself, from traditional magnets and postcards to unique items designed by local artists. Particularly popular are building replicas, T-shirts with the city skyline, and books on Chicago architecture.

Various ticket packages are available for those who want to combine a visit to 360 CHICAGO with other city attractions. Popular options include combining it with an architectural cruise on the Chicago River, a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago or admission to the Willis Tower Skydeck - the city's second famous observation deck. Purchasing such packages often entails significant savings compared to buying separate tickets.

Finally, it is worth mentioning the location of 360 CHICAGO, which is one of its greatest assets. The building is located on the famous Magnificent Mile, an exclusive shopping street with numerous stores, restaurants and hotels. So after visiting the observation deck, you can easily continue exploring the city by going shopping, dining at one of the renowned restaurants or taking a stroll along Lake Michigan, which is just a few minutes' walk from the building.