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 Chicago, the hub of the United States, is a fabulous destination in itself. The Navy Pier is a Chicago landmark with over 50 acres of parks, gardens, shops, restaurants and attractions of every kind. There is a Ferris Wheel and Carousel. Visit the Chicago Children's Museum, Skyline Stage and Joe's Be-Bop Cafe & Jazz Emporium. The 3,000 foot pier was the only one of several proposed commercial piers in the 1909 Burnham Plan which was actually constructed. Since it was built in 1916, it has been through numerous incarnations both military and commercial, and after a multimillion dollar refurbishment it stands today as one of Chicago's premiere entertainment and convention destinations.
The Sears Tower Skydeck
233 S. Wacker Dr.
Since 1974 this soaring structure has been the world's tallest building. Take one of the 100 elevators to the Skydeck Observatory on the 103rd floor for a spectacular view of the city. Open daily: March-September 9 am-11 pm; October-February 9 am-10 pm. Adults $8, Senior Citizens $6, Children 5-12 $5, Children under 4 free. Family Pass $20.
The John Hancock Observatory (1,127 feet)
875 N. Michigan Ave.
This Michigan Avenue giant was built in 1970 with a dramatic cross-bracing, framing system. Although it is 327 feet lower than the Sears Tower, the observation deck provides a stunning view of the lake and city. One floor above the observation deck on the 95th floor, is the Signature Room, a perfect place for a cocktail and a second-to-none view of the sunset. The 94th-floor observatory, more than 1,000 feet above Chicago, features an outside Skywalk, the Midwest's highest open-air experience; Windows on Chicago, which takes you on a virtual reality tour of more than 80 city sites; Soundscope 3-D "talking" telescopes that speak in four languages and create startling real sound effects; a Chicago history wall; and a theme park- style ticketing area that recreates the construction of the John Hancock Center. Open daily 9 am-midnight. Admission: Adults $8.50, seniors (62+) and children ages 5-12 $6, children 4 and under free.
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