Flyover or The Tilt (or neither?) and rooftop recommends

Question

Hi all

I am visiting in October for 4 days, and have been doing some research ahead of time.

There are a couple of things that look like they could be fun - the Flyover and The Tilt. I would probably only want to do one of these (and I think the Flyover seems better) but would appreciate any views / recommendations.

Also one evening I would quite like to go to a rooftop bar - although I think it’s likely to be cool and wet! J Parker (Hotel Lincoln) and Offshore at Navy Pier both seem to be all seasons locations. Again any thoughts or alternatives are really appreciated.

Thank you ☺️

Lauren

Answer

Hi Lauren!

It sounds like you're gearing up for a fun trip to Chicago in October! Both the Flyover Chicago and The Tilt are unique experiences, but they offer different vibes, so let me break them down for you to help you decide.

Flyover Chicago – This is a motion-based immersive experience that simulates the sensation of flying over Chicago's iconic landmarks. It's a fun, high-tech ride that gives you a bird's eye view of the city from a seat, similar to other "flyover" experiences in major cities around the world. It's a great choice if you want a thrilling, visually stunning experience with a lot of movement. It's especially exciting if you're a fan of immersive rides and want to get a quick, scenic look at the city in a short amount of time. The Flyover is indoors, so weather won’t affect it, which can be a plus in October!
The Tilt – Located at the John Hancock Center (now known as 360 Chicago), The Tilt is a sky-high experience where you’re tilted outward from the 94th floor of the building, offering a very unique perspective of the city. It’s definitely more of a thrill for those who aren’t afraid of heights, and it offers amazing panoramic views of the city. The Tilt is perfect if you want a more traditional observation experience with the added thrill of leaning out over the city from a skyscraper. If you’re into dramatic views and getting a little adrenaline rush, this could be the option for you. But if you're more interested in a "flying" experience, Flyover might be a better fit.

If you can only do one, I'd recommend Flyover Chicago for the immersive, all-around experience, but if you're looking for breathtaking city views with a dash of excitement, The Tilt is definitely a must-try. Both are indoor activities, so no worries about weather!

As for the rooftop bars, Chicago has plenty of great options, and I understand your concerns about the weather in October. Both J. Parker and Offshore are all-season rooftops, so they have heated areas for the colder months, making them good choices. Here are a few additional suggestions for a cozy, scenic experience:

Offshore at Navy Pier – This is one of the largest rooftop bars in the world, with panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Since it’s enclosed and heated during the colder months, it’s a fantastic all-season option, and the views are stunning. It’s a little touristy, but still very impressive.
J. Parker at Hotel Lincoln – Located in Lincoln Park, this rooftop bar has a more relaxed and trendy vibe with great views of the city and the park. It’s less crowded than some of the other rooftop bars, so it can feel more intimate, and it’s a good spot for a chill evening with drinks.
LondonHouse Rooftop – If you’re looking for one with spectacular views of the Chicago River and downtown, the rooftop bar at LondonHouse offers an incredible view of the city’s skyline, especially as the city lights come on in the evening. It’s a bit more upscale and has indoor seating as well if it’s too chilly outside.
Skydeck at Willis Tower

Given the October weather, I'd recommend the enclosed rooftops, like J. Parker or Offshore, so you can enjoy the views comfortably regardless of the chill. However, if you don't mind bundling up a little and want a spot that has a lively vibe and amazing views, I would recommend the LondonHouse Rooftop or Offshore at Navy Pier.

Hope that helps you narrow it down, and have a fantastic trip to Chicago!