Ontario is home to plenty of things, but what really puts Ontario on the map is the CN Tower. Located in Downtown Toronto, the CN Tower is the tallest free standing structure in the Americas. Up until 2007, it was actually the tallest free-standing structure in the world. The American Society of Civil Engineers has gone so far as to call it one of the seven wonders of the world. It attracts over 2 million visitors a year, and while some come just to see it, most people come for the breathtaking view.
The CN Tower began construction in 1973. By 1976 construction was complete, and Ontario became known as home of the world’s tallest structure in the world. It’s actually a communications tower, and stands at a whopping 555 meters. That’s 1820 feet, for you imperial folk. For visitors, there’s actually two levels: the main level, located at approximately 1100 feet, and the “Sky Pod”, located at just a touch over 1400 feet. Visitors gain access to these areas by one of three elevators. The CN Tower is also home to the tallest spiral staircase in the world, which tops out at over 2500 steps! The stairs are located inside the core, and is generally closed to the public except for charity events. Fun fact: the record for fastest climb is a whopping 7 minutes and 52 seconds!
For visitors, Restaurant 360 is truly one of a kind: the restaurant is located at the lower portion of the main level, and completes a revolution every 72 minutes. For the braver souls, the CN Tower has 2 different glass floors: the first is on the main level, and you’ll be able to enjoy a look straight down to the ground 1,120 feet below. Of course, for those really brave the CN Tower holds the record for having the tallest elevator equipped with a glass floor. Considering the speed of these elevators, it is truly not for the faint of heart.
The CN Tower is a great tourist spot if you happen to be in Toronto. Considering Toronto is one of the largest cities in Ontario, you owe it to yourself to visit this fantastic city at least once.