360 Chicago

Completed in 1969, the building originally known as the John Hancock Center was a marvel of modern engineering. Designed by the visionary architect Bruce Graham and structural engineer Fazlur Rahman Khan of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the skyscraper was the first to utilize a trussed tube system. This innovative design not only provided immense structural stability but also created the iconic X-bracing exterior that has become a permanent fixture of the Chicago skyline. The construction of the tower represented a significant shift in urban architecture, combining residential, commercial, and office spaces into a single 'city within a building.' At the time of its completion, it was the second tallest building in the world and the tallest outside of New York City. Its unique tapered shape was designed to accommodate the different floor space requirements of its various tenants, with smaller floor plates for apartments at the top and larger ones for offices at the bottom. In 2014, the observation deck on the 94th floor was officially rebranded as 360 Chicago to emphasize its panoramic views of the city and Lake Michigan. Since then, it has evolved into a premier tourist destination, introducing 'TILT,' a world-first thrill ride that tilts passengers over the edge of the building. Today, it stands as a testament to Chicago's architectural legacy, offering visitors a unique perspective on the city's history and its breathtaking lakefront.