Sunday column
Why the CN Tower Stands Out in Toronto
Towering over Toronto’s skyline at 553.3 metres (1,815 ft), the CN Tower became the world’s tallest free-standing structure from its opening in June 1976 until it was overtaken in 2007. Initially conceived as a broadcast mast, its designers soon expanded the vision—adding elevators, observation decks, a rotating restaurant, shops, and daring experiences. Today it draws more than 1.5–2 million visitors each year to witness its blend of architecture, views, and excitement.
Victoria Reed
Desk editor
Editor’s note
The full column continues in quiet type below.
Section
Sunday Broadsheet
Towering over Toronto’s skyline at 553.3 metres (1,815 ft), the CN Tower became the world’s tallest free-standing structure from its opening in June 1976 until it was overtaken in 2007. Initially conceived as a broadcast mast, its designers soon expanded the vision—adding elevators, observation decks, a rotating restaurant, shops, and daring experiences. Today it draws more than 1.5–2 million visitors each year to witness its blend of architecture, views, and excitement.
Reach New Heights at the Observation Zones
Ascending in a glass front elevator, visitors can reach the LookOut deck at 346 m, or pay extra for the SkyPod at 447 m—offering sweeping views of Toronto, Lake Ontario, and even Niagara Falls when skies are clear (up to about 160 km distant). Just below the LookOut, the Glass Floor at 342 m provides a thrilling perspective straight down—capable of supporting the weight of 14 hippos, according to safety tests.
Step Out on the EdgeWalk
For adrenaline seekers, the EdgeWalk is a world record experience. At 356 m above ground, participants are harnessed and can walk hands free around the outer ledge of the main pod. Reviews describe it as “exhilarating,” “awesome,” or the “best buzz ever”. The full package includes training, a 30 minute excursion, photos, video, and SkyPod access—all in one booking.
Dine with a Panoramic Spin
The 360 Restaurant, located at around 351 m, completes a full rotation in roughly 72 minutes. It serves contemporary Canadian cuisine made from seasonal, local ingredients—think bison steak, maple inspired desserts, and vegetarian options—all while offering uninterrupted city vistas. Your meal also includes LookOut admission and priority elevator access—making it a celebratory dining experience renowned among locals and international visitors alike.
Interesting Facts About the CN Tower
The tower was originally built by Canadian National Railway as a high-altitude communications mast, to solve signal issues caused by the rise of skyscrapers in Toronto.
Constructed from 1973 to 1976 using slip form concrete technology, it cost approximately CAD 63 million and was finished in just 40 months.
Despite its loss of the global height record, it remains the tallest free standing structure in the Western Hemisphere and was named one of the Modern Wonders of the World by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1995.
Nightly light shows have illuminated the tower since 2007, showcasing red and white hues for Canada and up to 16.7 million colors for special events like Pride Month or holiday celebrations
The tower is engineered to endure extreme conditions: it can resist wind gusts up to 418 km/h and seismic activity up to magnitude 8.5 on the Richter scale.
On average, it is struck by lightning about 75 times a year—protected by copper grounding strips embedded down its length.
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