The CN Tower in Toronto

The CN Tower in Toronto

He is hard to miss. The CN Tower in Toronto. For a long time it was the tallest building in the world with its height of 553 meters. However, he has lost his first place among the tallest buildings in the world. But he still looks impressive, especially if you take him from the lake side of Lake Ontario considered. However, he lost 2010 to the Canton Tower as the highest tower in the world as defined by the Guinness Books of World Records and the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat. In addition, the Burj Khalifa has denied him the position of being the tallest building in the world.

Height of the CN Tower

The CN Tower in Toronto is not just any tower, but with an impressive height of 553,3 meters, it is one of the tallest free-standing structures in the world. This altitude makes it a must-see on any Toronto itinerary and a symbol of Canadian engineering. Originally built as a communications tower, it has become one of the most visited attractions in all of Canada.

The height of the CN Tower is not only impressive but also functional. As a television and radio tower, its height enables long-range signal transmission. But the height is not just for technical purposes. It also offers unparalleled views of the city of Toronto and surrounding areas. An elevator takes you to the observation deck, which is at a height of 58 meters, in just 346 seconds. From there you can see the world below you in miniature.

But its height actually plays a minor role, because it is still impressive. In any case, it is best viewed from the Toronto Islands, which are located in the city center of Toronto and are grouped in a kind of semi-circle off downtown Toronto in Lake Ontario.

History of the CN Tower

The CN Tower was built in 1976 by the Canadian National Railways and was intended to serve as an antenna. The tower still stands near the railroad tracks that lead into Toronto's main train station, which is not far from the CN Tower. However, the tower is now owned by Canada Lands Company Ltd., a corporation owned by the Crown and is therefore state property.

It was built between 1973 and 1976 with the aim of serving as a television and radio tower. At that time it was the tallest free-standing structure in the world. The engineers and architects not only wanted to improve communication, but also create a landmark that would impress the world.

63 million dollars cost the construction of the tower. 1537 workers were involved in the construction of the CN Tower, which they built in just 40 months. Now one of Toronto's major attractions, it attracts around 2 millions of visitors from around the world every year.

The history of the CN Tower is closely linked to the development of Toronto. As the city grew, it needed better communication options. The tower solved this problem and quickly became one of the most visited attractions in Canada. It has shaped the city's skyline and attracts millions of visitors every year.

Architecture of the CN Tower

Designed by architect John Andrews, the CN Tower is a true engineering achievement. The shape of the tower is slender and tapered, giving it an elegant appearance. This shape also has a practical use: it minimizes wind resistance and ensures stability.

The architecture of the CN Tower is designed to serve multiple functions. Originally built as a communications tower, it had to be strong enough to withstand Toronto's extreme weather conditions. Therefore, the tower is made of steel and concrete, materials that are both durable and resistant. The architecture also allows the tower to be used for spectacular light shows.

Activities at the CN Tower

One of the highlights is the “Edge Walk”, where you can walk around the tower on a platform secured to a rope. It's a thrill you won't soon forget.

If that's too adventurous for you, there are quieter options too. The observation deck offers 360-degree views of Toronto and the surrounding area. You can even walk across a glass floor and see the city right beneath your feet. For those who prefer something more casual, there is a revolving restaurant where you can dine while enjoying the view.

The CN Tower also regularly hosts light shows that illuminate the tower in different colors. These shows are a real eye-catcher and make the tower a living part of the skyline.

Revolving restaurant and observation deck of the CN Tower

Visitors have the choice of how to experience the CN Tower. There is an observation deck whose attraction, in addition to the panoramic view of Lake Ontario and Downtown Toronto, is a piece of glass bottom through which Bold 342 meters can look into the depths. But even higher is the Sky Pod, a viewing platform at 447 meters high.

If you bring a little more time and want to enjoy the view from the CN Tower, you can also do this from the 360 ​​degree rotating restaurant. During a lunch or dinner, the CN Tower will take 72 minutes to circumnavigate - enough time to see downtown Toronto from above and, with a little luck, even a glimpse of the spray of the city Niagara Falls to catch south of Lake Ontario. When the visibility is clear, you can see up to 160 kilometers from the top of the tower. If you like it particularly adventurous, you can also try the edgewalk around the tower - at a height of 356 meters.

Prices, tickets and opening times

Entry prices vary depending on what you want to experience. A one-way ticket to the observation deck is significantly cheaper than a trip to the EdgeWalk.

You can buy tickets directly on the Official website of the CN Tower Buy or at the box office on site. But be careful, tickets can sell out quickly, especially in high season. Therefore, it is advisable to book them online in advance. There are also sometimes combo tickets that include entry to other Toronto attractions, which is a great way to save money.

When planning your visit, it is important to know when the CN Tower is open. Hours may vary seasonally, so check the CN Tower website before visiting.

A tip for those who are reluctant to queue to buy tickets:

If one chooses the variant of a meal in the revolving restaurant, one should definitely reserve his place (Tel. (416) 362-5411). Then you can just go to the reception desk of the restaurant and do not need to queue in the queue for the elevator to the observation decks. The restaurant also has a lift other than the viewing platforms. And after the meal you can also reach them via stairs.

We used this trick on all of our visits to the CN Tower. We combined the pleasant with the practical and enjoyed the view of the lake and the city with a good meal. This makes a visit to the CN Tower a real experience for connoisseurs.

Travel Arrangements:

Parking at the airport

Here you can reserve your parking space at the airport.

Arrival:

Compare and book flights here*. Air Canada, Lufthansa, Condor and Icelandair fly from Germany Toronto.

Car Rentals:

Cheap car hire - book quickly and easily!

Camper Rentals:

Compare motorhome prices here

Transfers:

Hotels:

Hotels in Toronto * You can also book through our partner booking.com.

Sightseeing tours

Travel guide for your Toronto vacation in Canada:

Toronto Travel Guide * You can also order from Amazon.de to prepare for your holiday.

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Source: CN Tower and own research on site