Three Reasons Why Toronto’s CN Tower is a Must-Visit!

As the world begins to open up again post COVID-19 enforced lockdowns, tourism, particularly in Canada, is rising again. Before this 18 month hiatus, Toronto was visited annually by 21 million visitors. It's a very walkable city known for its many city parks, beautiful architecture, impressive skyline, and delicious food. Many people also visit the city en-route to Niagara Falls. Considering all of the above things to do in Toronto, and among all of the destinations to visit in Canada, CN Tower in Toronto may be the last thought in your must-visit places; however, what if we told you that there are three things that make this infamous tower popular among tourists?

A brief introduction

The CN Tower resembles a giant concrete tree trunk that dominates a forest of glass shrubs along the city skyline for those unfamiliar with it. Up until 2007, it was the world's tallest freestanding structure, measuring 553.3 metres. This honour now goes to the Burj Khalifa, located in Dubai, which measures 829.8 metres. Annually it's visited by 1.5 million people; that's on average just over 4000 people a day that will ascend to the viewing decks. Impressive! Coupled with Niagara Falls, it's two of Ontario's most visited tourist attractions. Initially, the CN Tower was a transmission tower in concept, but the designers and builders started to get creative. They added elevators, viewing platforms, restaurants, shops, and activities. Thus, turning it into one of Canada's top tourist attractions. So let's count down the three top reasons you should visit the CN Tower if you're looking for things to do in Toronto.

#3: Canada's top of the world view

You have two options for the viewing platforms, the LookOut at 346 metres up or the SkyPod at 447 metres. However, riding up the glass-enclosed elevator is worth the price of admission alone. It's simply a fantastic feeling to see and feel yourself rise alongside and then above Toronto's skyscrapers. Both viewing platforms mentioned treat you to 360-degree views of Toronto's surrounds and Lake Ontario. From SkyPod, on a clear day, you can see up to 160 kilometres away, viewing Niagara Falls off in the distance. You can also watch the planes take off and land at Toronto City Airport, located on Toronto Island. For the brave, the Outdoor SkyTerrace, which is one level below Lookout, allows you to stand on a glass floor—giving views of Toronto directly underneath your feet, 342 down to the ground. Don't worry, though; the glass floor can sustain up to 25 2000 kg of weight (+-55000 lbs.)

#2: Take a walk on the edge at the CN Tower

Test your nerves and fear of heights doing the Edge Walk, the CN Tower's newest and most spectacular attraction. At 356 metres above ground, it features in the Guinness World Book of Records as the highest outdoor walk. Feel the breeze in your face and the beat of your heart as you're strapped into a harness. You then proceed to walk on the edge of a narrow platform way above the Toronto skyline. For adrenaline lovers, this is a must-do on your visit to the CN Tower. The experience is available from mid-April to mid-October, weather permitting. The cost of one ticket gives you a 1.5-hour experience that includes: Orientation training, the EdgeWalk for about 30-minutes, a video clip to show off on social media, plus access to all the other CN Tower attractions.

#1: A meal with a view

Stunning views and adrenaline-fuelled activities aside, many people come simply for a unique dining experience. Eating dinner at the 360 Restaurant is one of the top reasons tourists and locals visit the CN Tower. In the late afternoon, with a seat by the window, the view of the city 351 metres below is simply stunning as the sun starts to set. That aside, don't forget about the main reason you're here, with delicious meals suiting all tastes, and the excellent service you'd expect from a restaurant of this calibre. This revolving restaurant takes about 70 minutes to do one complete revolution, offering a constantly changing view while you enjoy fine dining and the electric atmosphere. Watching the city skyline come to life in twinkling lights as the sun sets is a joy to behold. Menu wise, the restaurant sticks very much to its Canadian roots, whilst offering a wide selection of international dishes too. And for dessert, the Maple Three Ways, consisting of maple cheesecake, maple crème brûlée, and maple-pecan tart with ice cream, is a fan favourite. Elegance abounds at The 360 Restaurant, so make sure you dress up, as it's one of Toronto's top fine dining options; you might even spot a celebrity. For special occasions like Valentine's day or any other commemorative event, it's best to book in advance.

Did you know?

In conclusion, let's finish with some fun facts about one of the top tourist destinations for things to do in Toronto.

• The CN Tower remains the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
• In 1995, the American Society of Engineers awarded it the status of Wonder of the Modern World.
• The CN Tower receives lightning strikes about 75 times per year. Copper strips running the length of the building ensure the electricity is properly grounded.
• The CN Tower can sustain heavy winds up to 420 km/ph.
• And finally, it'll be able to withstand an earthquake of 8.5 on the Richter scale.