Sunday Special – CN Tower, Toronto

This year my country of Canada turns 150 years old (officially on July 1, 2017).  To honour that I will be writing about a few spots in my beloved country over the months. Today will be about one of Canada’s well-known landmarks: The CN Tower. Many cities have an iconic landmark gracing its skyline. Canada’s largest city is no different. Standing at 553 m/1815 ft in downtown Toronto this telecommunications tower has been synonymous with city since its completion in 1975. For 34 years the tower was the world’s tallest free-standing structure. As us humans have continued to build higher into the sky that title has been lost yet the appeal of it’s magnificent view remains today.  It’s use of a major broadcaster for wireless, television and radio continues. Architecturally it was acclaimed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World in 1995 by the American Society of Civil Engineers. And of course, it is a major tourist attraction with plenty of ways visitors can experience it.

The first and obvious way to see the tower is to be whisked up to the observation deck in the high-speed glass paneled elevators. Three of the six elevators even have glass inserts in the floors. How’s that for seeing where you have been? The LookOut offers viewers a panoramic scene over Lake Ontario and the city-scape of Toronto. When visibility is clear one can peer for what seems like forever. If the view isn’t enough then try out the first-ever glass floor. Added in 1994 it allows you to look straight to the ground from 342m/1122ft above. Do you think you can walk across this section without feeling nervous? (Don’t worry, it’s safe – I can attest to that).  If you prefer you can enjoy a meal in one of the two restaurants floating above the city.  Horizons is located at the LookOut level with a casual ambiance. For a complete view of the city try 360 Restaurant. As its name implies, this revolving restaurant offers a feast for you eyes and your taste buds. It also has bragging rights of having the world’s highest wine cellar. I’ll drink to that!

Still not wowed? How about an even higher view at 447m/1465ft above?  Or a crazy walk outside of the tower? The Skypod is even higher than the LookOut at 447m/1465 ft. Up here you may be lucky to see all Niagara Falls (both sides). For the thrill seekers there is the EdgeWalk. Yes, as it sounds you get to walk around the CN Tower outside and up above on it’s roof! Do note that is seasonal feature. And yes,  this is on my bucket list (unless I chicken out).