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John Hancock Observatory-Overview

Author: Kelly Holcomb




HancockChicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper. Among the most well-known skyscrapers is the John Hancock Center, which towers more than 1,127-feet and is 100 stories high - enough aluminum in the building to cover 12 football fields! 

One very fast elevator ride to the top and you'll be in one of the world's most expansive and entertaining observatories, home to an open-air skywalk; a sky-high cafe; a free, multimedia tour; and spectacular bird's eye views.


John Hancock Observatory

From most spots on the Magnificent Mile, you'll be able to spot the John Hancock Center. This Chicago architectural icon is home to the John Hancock Observatory, an attraction that draws millions of tourists from across the globe each year.

This mammoth skyscraper is now the fourth-tallest building in Chicago, sixth-tallest in the country, and, with its antennas, fourth-tallest in the world.

History of the John Hancock Observatory

The building was completed in 1969 and is now home to offices, restaurants, an observatory, and about 700 condominiums—the highest residences in the world. After opening its corridors to the public in 1970, the building was the third tallest in the world.

The John Hancock Center is now a member of the World Federation of Great Towers, and one of only 29 buildings that have membership worldwide. Membership to this elite club is especially selective and based on certain building criteria, including having an observatory deck.

Architecture of the John Hancock

The lead architects for the Hancock were Bruce Graham and Fazlur Khan. Think those distinctive X's on the building are decorative? The genius X-bracing design is the brainchild of Fazlur Khan, one of the reasons why the building is a one-of-a-kind architectural icon.

Hancock X's

Not only did this design minimize the use of steel (cutting an estimated $15 million off the total material cost), it allows for more usable floor space inside since there's no need for internal columns.

The outer casing of the building is made of high-density aluminum and 11,459 extra-thick, glare-proof, bronze glass windows. These windows, believe it or not, are cleaned at least four times throughout the year to maximize viewing. You might notice that the overall structure of the building is a wedge-shape, which creates the illusion of height.

John Hancock Observatory Attractions

As one of the most impressive observatories in the world, the John Hancock Observatory spans more than 17,371 square feet.

You won't be left wondering what's taking place down below, thanks to an informative-yet-entertaining multimedia tour (narrated by Chicago native David Schwimmer), multimedia soundscopes, and an open-air skywalk that allows visitors to feel like they are outside on the 94th floor. (Learn more in our Guide to John Hancock Observatory Attractions).  Espression by Lavazza

Stay and watch the sunset across the skyline while sipping a steamy and flavorful cup of coffee from LavAzza in the John Hancock Observatory.

The large amount of international guests that visit the Hancock feel right at home in this cozy café operated by Italy's top coffee company. The LavAzza serves delicious specialty coffees from all around the globe, as well as a variety of salads, sandwiches, quick bites, and other beverages.

Planning Your Visit

Whether you take advantage of the conveniently located LavAzza Cafe or one of many other dining options in and around the John Hancock Observatory, we're sure you'll have no difficulty making a day of your trip (check out our Guide to John Hancock Observatory Dining).

Plenty of public transportation options are available, as well as parking near the John Hancock Observatory: the most convenient parking in the area is located at John Hancock Center with entrances off Chestnut (westbound) and Delaware (eastbound).

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