Willis Tower
Willis Tower is the tallest building in Chicago. Its black stepped profile rises 442m and stands high above the surrounding cityscape. While the exterior is a great subject from the ground level, the main reason to visit is the Skydeck on the 103rd floor. The views from up there are breathtaking. On a clear day you can see across Lake Michigan and into Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The whole Chicago grid lays out below you, and the mix of rooftops, river bends, and lakefront created amazing views in every direction. The Skydeck also features five glass floor balconies that allow you to stand on glass 412m above the street creating a perfect spot for looking down compositions and self portraits, if you can get a moment without other visitors in frame. Because the balconies are so popular you are limited to about 90 seconds on them, so know what shots you want before you step out. The exterior is free to photography but access to the Skydeck requires a ticket and in tourist season you may have to book your tickets in advance depending on the time of day you want to shoot. The light across the skyline at golden hour from this height is hard to beat, but sunset tickets often sell out. For fewer crowds, go right when it opens or after sunset. Tripods and bulky gear aren't allowed without prior approval, so plan on shooting handheld. Fog and low cloud can completely kill visibility up there, and tickets aren't refunded for weather, so check the conditions before you go. (Chicago, Illinois, USA)
