Q: Which is the better choice for sight-seeing, the Sears Tower or the Hancock Building?
The two tallest buildings in Chicago both offer spectacular views of the city and Lake Michigan, but the John Hancock Center comes out on top in our book for one simple reason: the view is free if you stop a little short.
The Signature Room on the 95th floor of the Hancock isn't the official observatory — that's a couple floors higher. But the advantage is you can have one of the finest meals in town and still see four states on a clear day. If your budget's a little tighter but your whistle needs whetting, take the elevator one floor further to the Signature Lounge, where the spectacular view is complimentary with your beverage order.
The Signature Room and Signature Lounge
John Hancock Center, 875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago
312-787-9596