Chicago, the birthplace of the skyscraper, boasts one of the most breathtaking skylines in the world. Known for its architectural innovation and engineering marvels, the city is home to some of the tallest and most iconic buildings in the United States.
If you’re curious about the tallest buildings in Chicago, this guide will provide detailed insights into the top 20 skyscrapers that define the city’s skyline. From their heights and unique designs to their historical and cultural significance, let’s explore these architectural wonders in depth.
Why Chicago’s Skyline is Special
Chicago isn’t just another city with tall buildings—it’s the city where the skyscraper was born. The Home Insurance Building, completed in 1885, was the world’s first steel-framed skyscraper. Since then, Chicago has continued to lead the way in architectural design and engineering.
The city’s skyline is a harmonious blend of historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers. Each building represents Chicago’s growth, resilience, and creativity, making the skyline a symbol of the city’s identity.
The 15 Tallest Buildings in Chicago
Here’s a detailed look at the top 20 tallest buildings in Chicago, highlighting their unique features, history, and contributions to the skyline.
1. Willis Tower
- Height: 1,451 ft (442 m)
- Floors: 108
- Year Completed: 1974
- Use: Mixed-use (office, observation deck)
The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is not only the tallest building in Chicago but also one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world. For 25 years, it held the title of the tallest building globally.
Its Skydeck Chicago, located on the 103rd floor, offers unparalleled views of the city and beyond. The highlight is The Ledge, a series of glass boxes that extend 4.3 feet outside the building, giving visitors the sensation of floating above the city.
The Willis Tower is also a hub for businesses, housing numerous offices and contributing significantly to Chicago’s economy. Its black aluminum and bronze-tinted glass facade make it a striking feature of the skyline.
2. Trump International Hotel and Tower
- Height: 1,388 ft (423 m)
- Floors: 98
- Year Completed: 2009
- Use: Hotel and residential
Situated along the Chicago River, this gleaming tower is a symbol of luxury and modernity. Its reflective glass exterior mirrors the surrounding river and skyline, creating a stunning visual effect.
The Trump Tower features a mix of hotel rooms, luxury condos, and high-end amenities. It also houses Terrace 16, a rooftop restaurant offering breathtaking views of the Chicago River and skyline.
3. St. Regis Chicago
- Height: 1,198 ft (363 m)
- Floors: 101
- Year Completed: 2020
- Use: Residential and hotel
Designed by Jeanne Gang, the St. Regis Chicago is the tallest building in the world designed by a woman. Its unique, stacked design features three interconnected towers, giving it a dynamic and modern appearance.
The building’s blue-green glass facade reflects the nearby Chicago River and Lake Michigan, making it a standout structure. Inside, it offers luxury residences, a five-star hotel, and high-end dining options.
4. Aon Center
- Height: 1,136 ft (346 m)
- Floors: 83
- Year Completed: 1973
- Use: Office
The Aon Center is a sleek, minimalist skyscraper clad in white granite. Originally built with marble, it underwent renovations to replace the marble with granite for durability.
Located near Millennium Park, the Aon Center is a key part of Chicago’s business district and serves as the headquarters for numerous companies.
5. 875 North Michigan Avenue (John Hancock Center)
- Height: 1,127 ft (344 m)
- Floors: 100
- Year Completed: 1969
- Use: Mixed-use (residential, observation deck)
This iconic building is famous for its X-braced exterior, which provides structural support and allows for open interior spaces. It’s located on the Magnificent Mile, one of Chicago’s most famous shopping and dining districts.
Visitors can head to the 360 Chicago Observation Deck on the 94th floor for breathtaking views of the city. The deck also features Tilt, a thrilling attraction that tilts visitors outward over the edge of the building.
6. Franklin Center
- Height: 1,007 ft (307 m)
- Floors: 61
- Year Completed: 1989
- Use: Office
The Franklin Center, originally known as the AT&T Corporate Center, is a masterpiece of postmodern architecture. Its crown-like top, which is illuminated at night, gives it a regal and commanding presence on the Chicago skyline. The building’s design is both functional and decorative, blending sleek modern lines with historical architectural references.
The Franklin Center houses numerous corporate offices and is a hub of business activity in downtown Chicago. Its interior features a grand lobby with marble finishes and a soaring atrium, offering a luxurious yet professional environment for tenants and visitors alike.
The building’s strategic location in the Loop makes it easily accessible, and its height ensures it remains one of the most prominent skyscrapers in the city’s central business district. The Franklin Center also connects to Chicago’s underground Pedway system, providing convenient access to shops, restaurants, and public transportation.
7. Two Prudential Plaza
- Height: 995 ft (303 m)
- Floors: 64
- Year Completed: 1990
- Use: Office
Two Prudential Plaza is one of Chicago’s most elegant skyscrapers, known for its tapering spire that adds a distinctive silhouette to the city’s skyline. Its design complements the nearby Aon Center, creating a cohesive architectural ensemble in the area.
The building’s exterior features a mix of granite and glass, giving it a sleek and timeless appearance. Inside, Two Prudential Plaza offers state-of-the-art office spaces with modern facilities, making it a preferred choice for many businesses.
Its location near Millennium Park and Lake Michigan provides tenants with easy access to some of Chicago’s top attractions. The building has also received multiple awards for its architectural design, further cementing its status as one of the city’s most iconic structures.
8. One Chicago East Tower
- Height: 973 ft (296 m)
- Floors: 78
- Year Completed: 2022
- Use: Residential
One Chicago East Tower is a modern marvel and one of the newest additions to Chicago’s skyline. This sleek residential skyscraper offers luxury apartments with high-end finishes, spacious layouts, and breathtaking views of the city.
Located in the vibrant River North neighborhood, One Chicago East Tower is ideal for residents seeking an upscale urban lifestyle. The building’s amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a rooftop pool, and multiple outdoor spaces for relaxation and entertainment.
Its design emphasizes clean lines and a contemporary aesthetic, while its height ensures it stands out in the rapidly evolving skyline. The tower is also part of a larger mixed-use development, which includes retail spaces and dining options, making it a self-contained community for residents.
9. 311 South Wacker Drive
- Height: 961 ft (293 m)
- Floors: 65
- Year Completed: 1990
- Use: Office
311 South Wacker Drive is one of the most recognizable buildings in Chicago, thanks to its illuminated crown, which glows at night and adds a touch of elegance to the skyline. This postmodern skyscraper features a cylindrical design, making it stand out from the more angular buildings around it.
The building’s lobby is equally impressive, with a grand entrance and high ceilings that exude sophistication. It houses numerous corporate offices, offering modern facilities and amenities for its tenants.
311 South Wacker Drive is also known for its plaza area, which includes a landscaped garden and seating areas, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of the bustling city. Its proximity to Union Station and other transportation hubs makes it a convenient choice for businesses and visitors alike.
10. NEMA Chicago
- Height: 896 ft (273 m)
- Floors: 76
- Year Completed: 2019
- Use: Residential
NEMA Chicago is a luxury residential skyscraper located near Grant Park, offering residents stunning views of the park and Lake Michigan. Designed by Rafael Viñoly, the building features a sleek, modern aesthetic with floor-to-ceiling windows and a unique, tiered design.
The tower is known for its extensive amenities, which cater to residents seeking a high-end lifestyle. These include a rooftop pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, coworking spaces, and multiple lounges. The building also offers concierge services, ensuring residents have everything they need at their fingertips.
NEMA Chicago’s location provides easy access to some of the city’s top attractions, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum Campus. It’s a prime example of modern urban living, combining luxury, convenience, and style.
11. 900 North Michigan
- Height: 871 ft (266 m)
- Floors: 66
- Year Completed: 1989
- Use: Mixed-use (retail, residential)
900 North Michigan is a mixed-use skyscraper that combines upscale retail, luxury residences, and office spaces. Located on the Magnificent Mile, it’s home to the 900 North Michigan Shops, which feature high-end brands, dining options, and entertainment venues.
The building’s design is a blend of classic and modern elements, with a granite facade and a series of setbacks that give it a distinctive look. The residential units offer spacious layouts, high-end finishes, and panoramic views of the city.
900 North Michigan is not just a shopping destination but also a hub for luxury living and business. Its central location makes it a convenient choice for residents and visitors alike.
12. Aqua
- Height: 860 ft (262 m)
- Floors: 82
- Year Completed: 2009
- Use: Mixed-use
Aqua is one of Chicago’s most unique skyscrapers, known for its wavy, sculptural balconies that resemble flowing water. Designed by Jeanne Gang, the building’s exterior is both functional and artistic, providing outdoor spaces for residents while enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
The building includes luxury apartments, a hotel, and office spaces, making it a true mixed-use development. Its amenities include a fitness center, a rooftop deck, and a swimming pool, offering residents a resort-like experience.
Aqua’s location near Millennium Park and the Chicago Riverwalk makes it a prime spot for those looking to enjoy the best of the city. Its innovative design has won numerous awards and is a testament to Chicago’s reputation for architectural excellence.
13. Water Tower Place
- Height: 860 ft (262 m)
- Floors: 74
- Year Completed: 1976
- Use: Mixed-use
Water Tower Place was one of the first mixed-use skyscrapers in Chicago, combining retail, residential, and hotel spaces. Located on the Magnificent Mile, it’s a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The building’s mall features a wide range of stores, from luxury brands to everyday essentials, making it a one-stop destination for visitors. The residential units offer stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city, while the hotel provides world-class accommodations.
Water Tower Place is a pioneer in mixed-use design and remains a key part of Chicago’s architectural and cultural landscape.
14. Chase Tower
- Height: 850 ft (259 m)
- Floors: 60
- Year Completed: 1969
- Use: Office
Chase Tower features a unique curved design, setting it apart from the more angular skyscrapers in the Loop. Its plaza area, known as Exelon Plaza, includes a large fountain and seating areas, making it a popular spot for workers and visitors to relax.
The building is home to the Chase Auditorium, a venue for events, performances, and lectures. Its central location and modern facilities make it a hub for business and cultural activities in Chicago.
15. Park Tower
- Height: 844 ft (257 m)
- Floors: 67
- Year Completed: 2000
- Use: Residential
Park Tower combines luxury living with a five-star hotel, offering residents access to world-class amenities. Its design features a sleek facade and spacious interiors, making it a sought-after address in the city.
The building’s location near the Magnificent Mile provides easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a prime choice for those seeking an upscale urban lifestyle.
Conclusion
Chicago’s skyline is a testament to its history, innovation, and architectural excellence. From historic landmarks like the Willis Tower to modern marvels like the St. Regis Chicago, each skyscraper adds to the city’s unique charm.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring Chicago’s tallest buildings is an unforgettable experience. Take a moment to admire the skyline and appreciate the stories behind these architectural wonders.