Aug. 11--Update: This weekend, the observatory will afford one of the best views of the Chicago Air Water Show (which is why WBBM Newsradio will broadcast a portion of the air show coverage live from the 360 Chicago floor). Admission isn't being hiked for the occasion; in fact military personnel, and up to three of their guests, will be offered discounted admission -- $10. The new cafe and bar, The Architect's Corner, will offer food and beverage specials in honor of the show, which runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. each day.
The Hancock Center's observatory, 360 Chicago, is raising its game to an even higher altitude. Although the Tilt attraction is temporarily closed, the skyscraping landmark has added a few new incentives for hometowners as well as tourists to pay a visit to the 94th floor, with kids or without.
360 Chicago
This week, 360 Chicago, formerly known as the Hancock Observatory, launches its 36 Days of Summer series on its 94th floor, at no extra charge beyond regular admission.
For date night or a late night with the kids, head up on a Saturday or Wednesday for a fireworks-viewing party to themed music -- i.e. summer city tunes and Motown -- with cocktail specials as visitors watch the sky light up over Navy Pier. 10:15 p.m. Saturdays; 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays, July 18 to Sept.3.
Add educational value to a visit Tuesday evenings, when "Guide in the Sky" docents from the Chicago Architecture Foundation are on site to talk about the city's architectural history and trivia. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, July 21 to Sept. 1.
Adults might want to round up some friends for the Sunset Viewing Party on Thursdays, with a DJ and cocktail specials 6-9 p.m. Through Sept. 3.
The Tilt attraction, which opened just last summer with eight individual bays that gradually tilt outward over the city for an extra thrill, has temporarily closed for improvements, including LED lighting. But the 94th floor already has a significant upgrade: a stadium-style seating area for visitors to take a load off while taking in the view, maybe over refreshments from the revamped cafe and full bar, Architect's Corner, on the same floor.
The ground level now has a short historical video about Chicago and photos depicting some of its neighborhoods, including Bronzeville, Bucktown, Hyde Park, Lakeview, Logan Square, Old Town, Pilsen, Wicker Park and Wrigleyville.
Other special events are in the works for the observatory, such as yoga and photography workshops, as well as a package for Chicago Air Water Show weekend, Aug. 15-16.
360 Chicago is open 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.; last elevator goes up at 10:30 p.m. General admission: $19 ages 12 and up; $13 ages 3-11. Free under 3. For families who want to see the city by glorious day and sparkling night, the Sun and Stars package, offered through Aug. 31, covers two visits within 48 hours for $21 per adult, $15 per youth. See 360chicago.com.
Willis Skydeck
The Willis Tower (nee Sears), by the way, still is drawing throngs to The Ledge, four glass boxes on the western face of the 103rd floor. Small groups step in to see the city underfoot or underhead -- visitors have been known to form cheerleader pyramids and perform feats of gymnastics, including headstands, during their turn in the cube.
The tower often offers special-events promotions. On Aug. 15, families with deep pockets can soar above the crowds for the Air Water Show with the Picnic in the Sky package. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. they can view the spectacle from the 99th floor and enjoy a boxed lunch. $100 per person includes Fast Pass entry and a visit to the 103rd-floor Ledge. (Advance reservation required before July 31; e-mail sales@theskydeck.com or call 312-875-9447).
Parents and teachers can add educational value to kids' visit anytime with an incredibly detailed Guide for Teachers on the website. It covers the history of the building, including a detailed description of the STEM challenges that the architects of the building confronted. (If that doesn't grab your young charges, try a little toilet trivia. The building's 992 toilets function thanks to about 24,000 miles of plumbing winding through it.)
Skydeck and The Ledge are open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. through September; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. October to March. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing. General admission is $19.50 ages 12 and up; $12.50 ages 3 to 11; free under age 3. Audio tour is extra. See theskydeck.com.
Looking for more of the latest on parenting-related topics and trends? Like us on Facebook or subscribe to our free weekly e-newsletter.
