So You Wanna Hang with the Clouds: Scaling the John Hancock in Style (or Not-So-Stylish)
Let's face it, Chicago is a city with an ego that reaches for the stratosphere. And what better way to feed that ego than by, well, scaling said stratosphere (or at least getting pretty darn close)? That's where the iconic John Hancock Building, now known as 875 North Michigan Avenue (but let's be honest, who calls it that?), comes in.
But First: Can You Actually Reach the Top Top?
Now, this is where things get interesting. Technically, the answer is no. The highest accessible point in the building is the 94th floor, which houses the famous 360 Chicago observation deck. Sure, you might not be able to high-five a gargoyle or chill on the roof with the pigeons, but trust me, the views from 94 floors up are enough to make you feel like you're on top of the world (without the whole pesky windchill factor).
The Great Ascend: How to Not Look Like a Tourist
Fear not, intrepid adventurer! Here's your survival guide to conquering the John Hancock, tourist-style (because hey, sometimes embracing the cliché is half the fun).
- Outfit Selection: Tourist Chic - Think sensible shoes (those heels might be cute, but trust me, your ankles won't thank you after shuffling through crowds), a camera with a zoom lens that would make a paparazzo jealous, and a pair of those goofy heart-shaped sunglasses.
- The Art of the Selfie: Strike a Pose! No trip to a tourist hotspot is complete without photographic evidence. Get creative! Pretend to hold up the building, lean dramatically over the edge (don't worry, there are safety rails!), or recreate that iconic Ferris wheel scene with a stranger (just maybe ask their permission first).
- Gift Shop Extravaganza: The Perfect Souvenir (or Not) No John Hancock experience is complete without a trip through the gift shop. Here you'll find everything from miniature John Hancock keychains to fridge magnets that say "Chicago: City of Wind... and Questionable Fashion Choices" (hey, I didn't write it!).
But Wait, There's More: The Sophisticated Ascend (or How to Pretend You're a High Roller)
Now, if the whole "tourist shuffle" isn't your vibe, fret not! There are ways to experience the John Hancock with a touch of sophistication (or at least the illusion of it).
- The Fine Dining Route: Skip the crowds and head straight to the Signature Room on the 95th floor. Enjoy a delectable meal with breathtaking views and pretend you're closing a multi-million dollar deal (even if you're really just there for the fancy cheese plate).
- Channel Your Inner James Bond: Opt for the TILT experience. This daring, angled platform actually leans out over the edge of the building, giving you a stomach-dropping (but totally safe) view of the city below. Now you can finally say you've lived on the edge (pun totally intended).
- The Zen Ascend: Believe it or not, you can actually participate in Sky Yoga classes held on the 94th floor. Now that's a way to find your inner peace while simultaneously making everyone on the ground incredibly jealous of your downward-facing dog skills.
So, there you have it! Whether you choose the full-on tourist experience or the sophisticated route (or maybe a quirky blend of both), conquering the John Hancock is a must-do for any Chicago visitor. Just remember, no matter how you choose to ascend, bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a barf bag, just in case you decide to TILT).
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