The Willis Tower, long famous as Chicago’s defining skyline feature, is commonly asked about by visitors and locals alike. Many people want to know what the Sears Tower is called now and how the building is referenced today.
Modern naming reflects current ownership and marketing, with the tower operating under a brand aligned with its iconic status. Understanding the present name helps clarify communications about the observation decks, corporate offices, and architectural tours.
| Name | Era | Owner | Common Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sears Tower | 1973–2009 | Sears, Roebuck and Co. | Widely used in media and everyday speech |
| Willis Tower | 2009–present | Brookfield Property Partners | Official name for real estate, signage, and operations |
| The Tower at 233 South Wacker Drive | 2009–present (alternate address label) | Brookfield Property Partners | Used in legal, postal, and some tourism contexts |
Brand Identity Willis Tower
Ownership and Naming Shift
After Brookfield Property Partners acquired the building, the official name became Willis Tower to align with the financial services firm Willis Towers Watson. This shift emphasizes the tower’s role as a premium office and tourism asset rather than a retail anchor.
Public Recognition and Marketing
While the legal and corporate name is Willis Tower, many visitors still say Sears Tower out of habit. Marketing materials highlight the observation deck, Skydeck, and city views, reinforcing the modern brand while acknowledging the building’s legacy.
Architecture and Engineering
Design and Structural Innovations
The tower’s bundled tube design revolutionized skyscraper engineering, allowing greater height with reduced wind sway. Its steel frame and glass facade set new standards for tall buildings worldwide.
Preservation and Modernization
Ongoing upgrades to elevators, windows, and façade systems maintain safety and efficiency. These improvements support contemporary usage while preserving the iconic silhouette that defines Chicago’s skyline.
Visitor Experience and Tourism
Attractions and Observation Decks
Today the Willis Tower draws millions of guests each year to its observation decks, including the famous Ledge, where visitors stand on glass panels extending outside the building.
Amenities and Accessibility
Updated visitor centers, multilingual guides, and enhanced digital tools create a seamless experience. Elevators, seating areas, and retail options ensure broad accessibility and comfort.
Business and Real Estate
Office Space and Tenants
Major corporations and professional services firms occupy premium floors, leveraging panoramic views and central location. Flexible floor plates support diverse workspace needs.
Market Position and Value
The Willis Tower remains one of the most valuable Class A office assets in the United States. Its reputation for reliability and performance drives demand from global tenants.
Key Takeaways for Navigating the Tower’s New Identity
- Official name is Willis Tower, named after current owner Brookfield’s Willis Towers Watson brand.
- Sears Tower is still widely recognized and used in conversation, but signage and marketing now favor Willis Tower.
- The building remains a premier office destination and top Chicago tourist attraction with modernized amenities.
- Address for mail and navigation is 233 South Wacker Drive, aligning with downtown Chicago street addressing.
- Ongoing upgrades preserve structural integrity and visitor experience while honoring the tower’s architectural legacy.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why is the building now called Willis Tower instead of Sears Tower?
The name changed after Brookfield Property Partners acquired the tower and chose to align the brand with Willis Towers Watson, reflecting the shift from a corporate headquarters to a mixed-use iconic asset.
Is it still acceptable to call it Sears Tower in conversation or writing?
Many people still use Sears Tower out of familiarity, especially in casual speech, but official materials, signage, and tourism content now use Willis Tower.
What are the main attractions inside Willis Tower for visitors today?
Visitors enjoy the Skydeck, Ledge glass boxes, historical exhibits, high-speed elevators, and curated views of Chicago landmarks from the observation floors.
How does the address 233 South Wacker Drive relate to Willis Tower?
233 South Wacker Drive is the official mailing address for the tower, used in postal, legal, and business contexts, while Willis Tower remains the public-facing name.