So, You Wanna Know the Tallest Building in Chicago?
Let's get one thing straight: Chicago is not short on skyscrapers. It's like a jungle of glass and steel up there. You'd think they're having a competition to see who can build the tallest toothpick. But among this concrete canopy, there's one building that reigns supreme: the Willis Tower.
Formerly known as the Sears Tower (remember those old catalogs?), this behemoth stands tall and proud at a whopping 1,451 feet. It's like a skyscraper on steroids. When it was built, it was the tallest building in the world! Can you imagine the bragging rights? But don't worry, it's still the tallest in Chicago and the third tallest in the United States. So, it's got that going for it.
Sky High and Feeling Mighty
Now, you might be wondering, "Why is it called Willis Tower now?" Well, apparently, Sears got tired of being the tallest building and decided to sell the naming rights. So, now it's the Willis Tower. But don't worry, most people still call it the Sears Tower. Old habits die hard, I guess.
If you're looking for a thrill, you gotta check out the Skydeck, an observation deck on the 103rd floor. It's like being on top of the world (or at least Chicago). And if you're feeling really brave, there's a glass box that sticks out from the building. It's called "The Ledge". It's basically a glass floor that lets you look straight down. Not for the faint of heart!
Other Notable Sky-Scrapers
While the Willis Tower takes the crown, there are other skyscrapers in Chicago that deserve a mention. The Trump International Hotel and Tower, for instance, is a sleek and shiny building that's the second tallest in the city. And then there's the Aon Center, the John Hancock Center, and the Aqua Tower, all of which are impressive in their own right.
So, the next time you're in Chicago, don't forget to look up. You might just spot a skyscraper that takes your breath away.
How To...
- How to visit the Willis Tower: Purchase tickets online or at the building. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.
- How to handle the fear of heights: Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and remember that the glass is probably stronger than you think.
- How to find other tall buildings: Look up. Seriously, just look up.
- How to impress your friends: Tell them you've stood on the edge of the world (or at least Chicago).
- How to survive a skyscraper collapse: Probably best to avoid this scenario altogether.