The John Hancock Observatory is one of the most frequented sites by tourists, but we Chicagoans like it, too. You do have an option if you are an adult, however. You can get the same views (without all the tourists) for the price of a cocktail at the Signature Room in the same building. If you have kids or decide you'd rather walk "outside" (a caged area), the Observatory is best. Be sure and look in tourist pamphlets in your hotel as the Observatory regularly offers discounts for multiple ticket purchases. You can stay up there as long as you like and take all the photos you want. I'd choose a time when the city is most beautiful, at dusk when the sun is setting, or on a summer evening when you can see fireworks over the Chicago River.
more