Chicago, the city of architectural marvels and the “birthplace of the skyscraper,” is famed for its stunning skyline. Visitors flock to see the Willis Tower, an iconic architectural symbol standing tall in the city center. But to truly appreciate Chicago’s beauty, a river boat tour offers an unforgettable experience.
Formerly known as the Sears Tower, Willis Tower stands as a testament to Chicago’s architectural prowess. Completed in 1973, this 110-story skyscraper was once the tallest building in the world. In 1969, Sears Roebuck and Company, then a retail giant with 350,000 employees, needed a vast office space. Architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill designed the building, and structural engineer Fazlur Khan created the innovative “bundled tube” design, enabling the building to withstand wind and gravity.
Fascinating Facts About Willis Tower
Willis Tower Chicago in the distance, standing out against a blue sky
Construction of Willis Tower began in 1970 and lasted three years. Builders used enough concrete to pave an eight-lane highway five miles long. Other interesting facts about the building include:
- 25 miles of plumbing
- 1,500 miles of electrical wiring
- 80 miles of elevator cable
- 796 restroom fixtures
- Over 145,000 light fixtures
More than 12,000 construction workers, Sears employees, and Chicagoans signed the final beam before it was installed. Although Sears Roebuck and Company sold the building in 1988, it was still known as Sears Tower until 2009, when it was renamed Willis Tower after a London-based insurance brokerage firm.
Complex piping system inside Willis Tower
Over the years, Willis Tower has undergone several changes, including:
- 1982: Broadcast antenna added.
- 1985: Curved-glass Wacker Drive Atrium constructed.
- 2000: Skydeck, the 103rd-floor observation deck, first renovated.
- 2015: Blackstone acquired Willis Tower.
- 2017: 5-year renovation began.
- 2022: Renovation completed, including Art of the Neighborhood and rooftop green space.
Willis Tower is more than just a skyscraper; it’s an integral part of Chicago’s architectural identity. The city is renowned for its diverse architectural styles, from the Chicago School to Modernism and Art Deco.
Willis Tower from above, with its broadcast antenna prominently displayed
Chicago River Boat Tours: Admire Unique Architecture
One of the best ways to explore Chicago’s architecture, including Willis Tower, is by taking a Chicago River boat tour. You’ll get a close-up view of the city’s distinctive architectural styles, including:
- Chicago School (Commercial Style)
- Second Chicago School (more modern)
- Prairie School (Midwestern flavor)
- Late Modernism
- Millennium Modern
- Art Deco
- Postmodernism
- Miesian Modern/International Style
The Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour is an excellent option for seeing the Chicago skyline from the Chicago River. This 75-minute tour takes you past famous landmarks and shares fascinating stories about the city’s unique architecture. Uniquely, this tour takes you from the lakefront, through the locks, and along the Chicago River to Willis Tower. After the tour, you can experience the speed of the Seadog on Lake Michigan.
Seadog boat tour on the Chicago River, with tourists sightseeing
For a more luxurious experience, choose the Premier Plus Architectural Brunch Cruise on the Chicago River. This two-hour cruise takes you past Chicago’s most stunning skyscrapers while you enjoy a chef-prepared three-course plated brunch and bottomless mimosas (for guests 21+). You’ll admire Chicago’s stunning architecture and hear engaging stories about the city.
City Cruises boat tour on the Chicago River, with modern architecture on both banks
Chicago is a unique city with a captivating skyline and a beautiful riverside setting. Take one or two boat tours to discover Chicago’s architecture in a whole new way. No matter which option you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
A river boat tour in Illinois, especially exploring Chicago’s architecture, is an unmissable experience for architecture enthusiasts and those wanting to discover the city’s beauty from a unique perspective. From the majestic Willis Tower to diverse architectural marvels, Chicago will leave you in awe of human creativity and talent. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip today!