Chicago Architecture Center's Logo
Chicago Architecture Center Homepage

875 N. Michigan Ave

  • the top of a tall black skyscraper
The tower's series of stacked Xs are immediately recognizable, making it one of the most well-known profiles in the city.

This tour currently has no scheduled dates.

  • the top of a tall black skyscraper

Completed in 1970, 875 N. Michigan Ave (John Hancock Center) dominates the northern end of Chicago’s skyline. On this tour, you'll learn how the building forever changed the character of North Michigan Avenue.

Duration
45 minutes
Site Type
Buildings
Location
Downtown
Architects and Styles
Meet

875 N. Michigan Ave., lower level lobby

This building represents a remarkable marriage of art and engineering and stands as a testament to the brilliant partnership of Bruce Graham and Fazlur Khan, colleagues at Skidmore, Owings and Merrill.

On this lunch-hour tour, we learn how Graham and Khan designed a 100-story structure that could withstand the powerful winds that whip off Lake Michigan. When it was built, the tower was the world’s second tallest building. On a clear day, it still provides spectacular views of the Windy City from all sides.

Know before you go:
  • You can access the lower-level lobby through the building's sunken plaza.
  • Portions of this tour take place outdoors. This tour does not include a visit to the observation deck.
Notes:
  • Many tours sell out. To guarantee your space advance reservations are strongly recommended.
  • Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your tour. View the CAC's hours.
  • Your safety is our priority. The itinerary of this tour may be altered in accordance with health and safety policies and considerations.

Tour reviews

    • This iconic building is as important an identifier of Chicago as the Chicago Cubs. Designed by very young professionals - Bruce Graham was only 39 and Fazlar Khan was only 35 - it created the precedent for supertall buildings around the world.
      Bill LipsmanCAC Docent
  • An office building lobby with a large spherical sculpture

    Lobby. Photo by Peter J. Sieger

  • An American flag waves in front of a tall black building.

    Exterior.

  • Two large antennae atop a tall building

    The building's antenna spires.

FAQ

  • Essential walking tours depart from the center at 111 East Wacker; they are free for all CAC members. Premier walking tours depart from other locations across Chicago, including neighborhood tours. Premier tours are discounted for individual, dual and family memberships and free for Deco level and above.

  • The CAC welcomes all visitors and is committed to making its offerings feel safe and accessible to everyone. Learn more about accessibility options.

  • Many of our tours depart from the CAC at 111 E. Wacker. Your ticket (regular or print-at-home) will indicate the departure location. If you have any questions about your tour’s meeting place, give us a call at 312.922.TOUR (8687).

    For tours that don’t begin at the CAC, please consult the individual tour webpage, or call 312.922.TOUR (8687) for details on the meeting location.

All walking & bus tours FAQ
No image description available.No image description available.

MORE ABOUT THIS BUILDING

Discover more about 875 N Michigan Ave. in CAC's Buildings of Chicago online library.

LEARN MORE
No image description available.

Group & Private Tours

CAC offers discounted rates and customized options for groups and tour operators. Learn about options here.

See Group and Private tours
Skyscraper GallerySkyscraper Gallery

Free Center Entry with Your Ticket

Ticket price includes entrance to the Chicago Architecture Center within 7 days of your walking or bus tour.

Visit the Center