CN Tower, Television and observation tower in downtown Toronto, Canada
Description
The CN Tower is a freestanding concrete structure rising 1,815 feet (553 meters) above Lake Ontario, built on a tripod foundation that supports a central shaft. The main observation level sits at 1,122 feet (342 meters), while a revolving restaurant and an open platform offer additional viewing areas, with the antenna marking the highest point.
History
Canadian National Railway began construction in February 1973 to build a transmission tower for television signals, with around 1,500 workers applying new techniques in concrete building. The facility opened to the public in June 1976, serving initially for telecommunications before evolving into a major visitor destination.
Culture
The tower appears on postcards, souvenirs, and guidebooks, shaping the image that people around the world hold of Toronto. Locals use it as a reference point in daily life, and visitors come here to experience the city from above, sharing the view with fellow travelers.
Practical
Access is available daily, and elevators take visitors to the upper levels in under a minute, with all areas accessible for wheelchair users. Restaurants and shops sit at the base of the structure, while purchasing tickets in advance can help reduce wait times.
Did you know?
The EdgeWalk experience allows visitors to walk on the exterior platform at 1,168 feet (356 meters), making it the highest outdoor walking surface in North America. Participants are secured with safety harnesses and circle the outside of the main observation level, with the full experience lasting around 90 minutes including preparation.
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