By Patty Enrado, Editor
CHICAGO — Chicago’s skyline is impressive, thanks to the city’s famous buildings. If you are an aficionado of architecture, then make sure you spend an afternoon checking out some of the City’s architectural gems or buildings that offer the best view in town. The HIMSS staff suggests their favorite buildings.
One of the most well-known buildings in Chicago is the Sears Tower (233 S. Wacker Dr., #3530, 312.875.2423, www.searstower.com), recommended by Matt Schlossberg, senior editor of Communications, and Sonal Sullivan, program manager of Meeting Services. The 110-story building, completed in 1973, is the tallest building in North America and the third tallest in the world. The Tower will be renamed Willis, after the London-based insurance broker that will move 500 employees into the Chicago skyscraper.
The Rookery (209 S. La Salle St., 312.325.8950, www.therookery-chicago.com), recommended by Racquel Orenick, corporate counsel, is the oldest high-rise still standing in Chicago. Completed in 1888, the historic landmark boasts a Beaux Arts Classical style. The Rookery got its name for being built on the site of the former City Hall, a place of nesting birds and crooked politicians.
The Hancock Building (875 N. Michigan Ave., 312.751.3680, www.johnhancockcenterchicago.com,), nominated by Schlossberg and Stacy Olson, intern for HIMSS’ Meeting Services, may not be as beautiful as The Rookery, but according to Olson, it has the “best view.” Here are prime tips from HIMSS staff members. “Rather than paying $12.95 to go to the top of the Sears Tower Skydeck or $13.00 at the John Hancock Observatory, a ‘secret’ is to head up to The Signature Lounge on the 96th floor at the John Hancock building!” said Maggie Suerth, manager of Member Services. “You can grab a cocktail for the same price or less and sit down and enjoy the views of Chicago’s skyline! Also, check out the bathrooms. I hear the views are amazing, and apparently they were nominated for one of America’s Best Bathrooms!” Resa Hoeller, director of Web Services, added, “I love going to the Signature Room for lunch at the top of the Hancock Building. You get a lunch and a fantastic view. It is better than any observatory and about the same price. The atmosphere is very casual at lunch-meaning that you can wear jeans and fit right in.” Hoeller recommends going early – between 11 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. – to ensure securing a table with a window. “Didn’t get a table by the window? Don’t worry, head to the bathrooms before you go. They have great southern views of the city.”