How to Get to Willis Tower from Union Station in 2025: By Walking, Bus, Subway, or Taxi

Planning to visit the iconic Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) in downtown Chicago? If you’re arriving at Chicago Union Station, you’re already close to one of the city’s most famous landmarks. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get to Willis Tower from Union Station using the fastest, easiest, and most convenient transportation methods.

Whether you’re walking, taking the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority), or grabbing a quick rideshare, getting to Willis Tower’s Skydeck Chicago is simple and takes just minutes.

🗺️ How Far is Willis Tower from Union Station?

The distance from Union Station to Willis Tower is only about 0.3 miles (0.5 km), making it one of the most accessible landmarks from Chicago’s main transportation hub. Depending on your pace and the weather, you can reach the tower in 5 to 10 minutes on foot.

🚶 Option 1: Walking – The Fastest and Most Direct Way

The easiest way to reach Willis Tower is by walking from Union Station. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and the walk is short and straightforward.

Walking Directions:

Exit Union Station onto Canal Street.
Head south on Canal Street.
Turn left on Jackson Boulevard.
Walk east two blocks—Willis Tower will be on your right, at 233 S Wacker Drive.

⏱️ Walking Time: 5–10 minutes
💰 Cost: Free

If you’re wondering how to get to Willis Tower from Union Station without using transit, walking is your best option—especially in good weather.

🚌 Option 2: Taking the Bus – For Extra Comfort or Rainy Days

If walking isn’t ideal, you can hop on a short CTA bus ride from Union Station to a stop near Willis Tower.

Recommended Route:

From Union Station’s Jackson Blvd & Canal stop, take the CTA Bus #126 Jackson heading east.
Get off at Jackson & Wacker Drive—the stop right next to Willis Tower.

⏱️ Ride Time: ~5 minutes
💰 Fare: $2.50 (CTA Ventra card or exact cash)

Taking the #126 Jackson bus to Willis Tower is great if you’re carrying luggage or need an accessible route.

🚇 Option 3: By Subway (L Train) – Good for Combining Multiple Stops

If you’re planning to visit multiple Chicago attractions, using the CTA subway (L train) can be a smart move.

Nearby Subway Stations:

The Blue Line stops at Jackson Station, just a 5-minute walk from Willis Tower.
The Brown, Pink, Orange, and Purple Lines stop at Quincy Station, which is closest to the tower.

To use the subway:

Walk or transfer from Union Station to the nearest Blue Line entrance.
Exit at Jackson Station, walk north 2 blocks on Wacker Drive.

⏱️ Travel Time: ~10–12 minutes (including transfer)
💰 Fare: $2.50 with Ventra card

This option is best if you’re heading to Willis Tower from Union Station as part of a larger CTA route.

🚕 Option 4: Taxi or Rideshare – Quick and Private

Need a more comfortable or direct ride? Grab a taxi or Uber from Union Station to Willis Tower.

Details:

📍 Pickup Point: Union Station (Canal Street or Clinton Street side)
⏱️ Travel Time: 3–7 minutes
💰 Estimated Fare: $7–$10 (depending on traffic)

Uber to Willis Tower from Union Station is especially convenient for families, groups, or business travelers with tight schedules.

📸 What to Do at Willis Tower

Once you arrive, here’s what you can enjoy at Chicago’s tallest skyscraper:

Skydeck Chicago: Take an elevator to the 103rd floor observation deck for panoramic views.
The Ledge: Step into a glass box extending 4 feet outside the building—one of the best photo ops in the city!
Shops and Restaurants: Grab coffee or souvenirs inside the building’s lower-level concourse.

Visiting Willis Tower from Union Station is perfect for first-time visitors to Chicago.

🧭 FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

Q: How long does it take to walk from Union Station to Willis Tower?
A: About 5 to 10 minutes, depending on pace.

Q: Is Willis Tower visible from Union Station?
A: Yes! It’s one of the most recognizable buildings on the skyline and is easily visible as you exit the station.

Q: Is there a bus from Union Station to Willis Tower?
A: Yes, take CTA Bus #126 from Jackson Blvd at Canal Street and get off at Wacker Drive.

Q: Can I get to Willis Tower from Union Station by subway?
A: Yes, walk to a nearby subway entrance (Blue Line) and exit at Jackson Station, then walk to Wacker Drive.

Q: Is Willis Tower wheelchair accessible?
A: Absolutely. Elevators and ramps are available both in Willis Tower and Union Station.

✅ Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting downtown Chicago and starting from Union Station, getting to Willis Tower is incredibly easy. Whether you prefer walking, taking a quick bus, riding the CTA, or using a rideshare app, you can reach this iconic skyscraper in just minutes. Don’t forget to visit the Skydeck and The Ledge for unforgettable views of the Windy City!