Iconic Lake Point Tower, prominently situated east of Lake Shore Drive near Navy Pier, is instantly recognizable by its Y-shape and sensuous all-glass curves. Architects George Schipporeit and John Heinrich, both of whom studied under the great modernist architect, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, designed the building. Completed in 1968, the tower has 11,310 windows that offer unobstructed views of the city and lake, which surrounds it on three sides. A circular fine-dining restaurant occupies the rooftop. The building sits on a large podium that contains parking and is topped by an expansive 2.5 acre rooftop garden designed by renowned landscape architect Alfred Caldwell—a pioneering effort in what is now called the “green movement.”

Behind the Scenes Access: Stroll around the tower's rooftop garden, which features a forest of mature trees, native grasses and bushes, a lagoon with a waterfall, an outdoor swimming pool, and excellent views of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, and Chicago’s magnificent skyline. The garden is undergoing significant renovation in an attempt to return it to Caldwell’s original vision.

And then, head to the top of Lake Point Tower where you can see four states and have lunch at Cite Restaurant!

Hours: Saturday and Sunday 9am-5pm

Architect(s): George Schipporeit and John Heinrich

Year: 1968

Website: www.lakepointtower.org