Featured on our very own popcorn gift tins, the John Hancock Tower is one of the most recognizable sites in Chicago. When you visit Chicago, you definitely want to see the city from the top of the Hancock! As one of the tallest buildings in the United States, and located right on Michigan Avenue, the views are incredible and seeing them is integral to the Chicago experience. Then back at home, when you see the skyline on your “NUTS ON CLARK” popcorn tin, you can always recall your stay here in Chitown.
About the Hancock
The construction of the Hancock was completed in 1969, and at that time, it was the tallest building in the world outside of New York City. It has a round 100 stories, and with its antennas, it stands at 1,506 feet tall. Now, it is fourth tallest building in Chicago and the sixth tallest building in the United States. It has around 700 condominiums, one of which is the 3rd highest residence in the world.
Visually, the building is known for its famous X-bracing, which gives it stability and allows it to sway in the wind. The X-bracing also allows the inside floorplans to be open and utilize more space, since interior beams aren’t needed to support the structure.
The Hancock’s address is 875 N. Michigan Avenue, placing it right on the Magnificent Mile. It’s perfectly located for anyone who wants to take in the views and then explore more of downtown Chicago’s attractions.
Chicago’s Iconic Sights from the Hancock Observatory
If there is one way to view the city, it’s from 94 floors up. Near the top of the Hancock Tower, you’ll find the Hancock Observatory. With a free multimedia exhibit about the views and the city, you can tour Chicago’s sites from above while learning about the history of the building and the city. Plus, the Skywalk allows you to feel the wind of the Windy City from nearly 100 stories up. There’s no glass, but there is a reinforced steel screen to keep you safe at such heights!
The Hancock Tower’s Sky-High Dining
In the various eateries of the Hancock Tower, you can dine in the sky. On the 95th floor, you’ll find the Signature Room, an upscale dining room fit for a formal dinner while you overlook the nighttime skyline. A floor higher you’ll find the Signature Lounge, a slightly more casual meeting place where you can enjoy a chic lounge atmosphere 1,000 feet up in the air.
Recently added to the Hancock’s dining offerings is the world’s highest Espression Cafe. The chic coffee chain serves Italian Lavazza coffees, food created by famous Spanish chef Ferran Adria, and “Espesso,” a coffee-foam treat that TIME Magazine called one of the best inventions of 2006.
Whether you want to dine, see Chicago from the sky or learn about the history of the city, the John Hancock buildings helps you achieve that experience. Just like eating Chicago popcorn is something we would recommend you don’t miss while you’re in Chicago, visiting this iconic Chicago building is at the top of “NUTS ON CLARK”’s must-do list.
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