Explore the architectural marvels of the United States with this travel-friendly guide to the top 10 tallest skyscrapers, perfect for planning your adventure to New York or Chicago since that is where all the Top tallest building are. Each entry includes key details for visitors, highlighting observation decks, nearby attractions, addresses, official websites, and why these towering structures are must-see landmarks. Heights are based on pinnacle measurements from the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) as of July 2025.
One World Trade Center (New York City, NY)
Soaring to 1,776 feet (541 m) with its iconic spire, One World Trade Center is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and a symbol of resilience in Lower Manhattan. Visit the One World Observatory on floors 100-102 for breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City, including the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. Tickets start at $39, with skip-the-line options recommended during peak times. Located in the World Trade Center complex, it’s steps away from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Dine at ONE Dine restaurant for a meal with a view, and explore nearby Battery Park or take a ferry to Ellis Island. Easily accessible via the Oculus transportation hub, this skyscraper is a perfect starting point for your NYC adventure. Search “One World Observatory tickets” for deals.
Address: 250 Vesey St, New York, NY 10007
Website: https://www.oneworldobservatory.com
Central Park Tower (New York City, NY)
At 1,550 feet (472 m), Central Park Tower on Billionaires’ Row is the world’s tallest residential building, offering unparalleled luxury and views of Central Park. While the tower is primarily private residences, visitors can explore the vibrant Columbus Circle area nearby, home to high-end shops like Nordstrom and dining at Per Se. The tower’s sleek design by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill is best admired from Central Park’s Sheep Meadow, a short walk away. Combine your visit with a stroll through Central Park or a trip to the Museum of Arts and Design, just minutes away. Accessible via the 59th Street-Columbus Circle subway station, it’s a great stop for architecture buffs and park lovers. Search “Central Park Tower NYC” for guided architecture tours in the area.
Address: 225 West 57th St, New York, NY 10019
Website: https://www.centralparktower.com
Willis Tower (Chicago, IL)
Standing at 1,451 feet (442 m), Chicago’s Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) is a Windy City icon with a thrilling Skydeck experience on the 103rd floor. Step onto the Ledge, a glass-bottomed balcony 1,353 feet up, for heart-pounding views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Tickets start at $32, with fast-pass options for shorter waits. Located in the Loop, it’s close to Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and deep-dish pizza joints like Lou Malnati’s. Visit in the evening for stunning city lights. Easily reachable via the CTA Blue Line to Monroe, it’s a must for thrill-seekers and first-time Chicago visitors. Search “Willis Tower Skydeck tickets” for promotions.
Address: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
Website: https://www.willistower.com
111 West 57th Street (Steinway Tower) (New York City, NY)
Known as the world’s skinniest skyscraper at 1,428 feet (435 m), 111 West 57th Street blends historic Steinway Hall with ultra-luxury residences. While the tower is private, its slender silhouette is a striking addition to Midtown’s skyline, best viewed from Central Park or 57th Street. Visitors can explore nearby Carnegie Hall for a concert or grab a bite at the famous Carnegie Deli, now relocated nearby. The tower’s proximity to Fifth Avenue’s shopping district and MoMA makes it a great stop for a cultural day out. Accessible via the 57th Street-7th Avenue subway station, it’s perfect for architecture enthusiasts. Search “Steinway Tower NYC” for walking tours of Midtown’s skyscrapers.
Address: 111 West 57th St, New York, NY 10019
Website: https://111w57.com
One Vanderbilt (New York City, NY)
Rising 1,401 feet (427 m), One Vanderbilt offers a modern office tower experience with Summit One, an immersive observation deck blending digital art and panoramic views. Tickets start at $42, with interactive exhibits showcasing NYC’s skyline, including the Empire State Building just blocks away. Located near Grand Central Terminal, it’s ideal for combining with a tour of the historic station or a visit to the New York Public Library. Grab coffee at nearby Bryant Park, a short walk away. Accessible via multiple subway lines at Grand Central, it’s a tech-savvy addition to your NYC itinerary. Search “Summit One Vanderbilt tickets” for group discounts.
Address: 250 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017
Website: https://summitov.com
432 Park Avenue (New York City, NY)
At 1,396 feet (426 m), 432 Park Avenue’s minimalist grid design redefined luxury living in NYC. While the residential tower isn’t open to the public, its stark white facade is a photographer’s dream, best captured from Park Avenue or the nearby Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. Explore the upscale dining scene at Le Bernardin or shop along Madison Avenue, both within walking distance. The tower’s Midtown location makes it easy to pair with visits to St. Patrick’s Cathedral or the Museum of Modern Art. Reachable via the Lexington Avenue subway, it’s a must-see for design aficionados. Search “432 Park Avenue NYC” for architecture-focused tours.
Address: 432 Park Ave, New York, NY 10022
Website: https://432parkavenue.com
Trump International Hotel and Tower (Chicago, IL)
Chicago’s Trump International Hotel and Tower, at 1,389 feet (423 m), offers a sleek, modern design with stunning views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. While primarily a hotel and condo, visitors can enjoy a meal at Terrace 16, the rooftop restaurant with skyline vistas, or sip cocktails at Rebar. Located in the River North area, it’s steps from the Magnificent Mile’s shopping and the Riverwalk’s scenic strolls. Pair your visit with a Chicago architecture boat tour for context. Accessible via the CTA Red Line to Grand, it’s perfect for luxury travelers. Search “Trump Tower Chicago dining” for reservations.
Address: 401 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Website: https://www.trumphotels.com/chicago
270 Park Avenue (JPMorgan Chase Building) (New York City, NY)
Topped out at 1,389 feet (423 m) in 2025, the new JPMorgan Chase headquarters in Midtown is a modern office giant with a sleek, sustainable design. While not open to the public, its glass facade is a striking addition to Park Avenue, best viewed from nearby Bryant Park or the Morgan Library & Museum. Combine your visit with a tour of Grand Central Terminal or a coffee break at a nearby café like Ralph’s Coffee. Accessible via the 5th Avenue-53rd Street subway station, it’s ideal for business travelers and architecture fans. Search “270 Park Avenue NYC” for updates on public plaza access.
Address: 270 Park Ave, New York, NY 10017
Website: https://www.jpmorganchase.com/about/our-business/270-park-avenue
30 Hudson Yards (New York City, NY)
At 1,270 feet (387 m), 30 Hudson Yards is a cornerstone of the Hudson Yards development, featuring The Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Tickets start at $36, offering jaw-dropping views of Manhattan and the Hudson River. Visit The Vessel nearby, a climbable art installation, or shop and dine at Hudson Yards’ luxury mall. The High Line, an elevated park, is a short walk away. Accessible via the 34th Street-Hudson Yards subway station, it’s a must for modern architecture and adventure seekers. Search “The Edge NYC tickets” for combo deals with The Vessel.
Address: 500 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001
Website: https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/discover/edge
Empire State Building (New York City, NY)
An Art Deco legend at 1,250 feet (381 m), the Empire State Building remains NYC’s most iconic skyscraper. Its 86th and 102nd-floor observatories offer timeless views, with tickets starting at $44. Night visits showcase the city’s twinkling lights, and the building’s seasonal light shows are a bonus. Located in Midtown, it’s close to Macy’s Herald Square and Koreatown’s vibrant eateries. Combine with a Broadway show for a quintessential NYC day. Reachable via the 34th Street-Penn Station subway, it’s a bucket-list stop. Search “Empire State Building tickets” for express pass options.
Address: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY 10118
Website: https://www.esbnyc.com
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for milder weather and fewer crowds.
Booking: Reserve observation deck tickets online to save time and money.
Accessibility: All listed observation decks are ADA-compliant, with elevators and accessible facilities.
Nearby: Each skyscraper is near major transit hubs, making them easy to reach via subway, bus, or rideshare.