CN TOWER

Opened to the public in 1976 and formerly owned by the Canadian National Railway (CN), the CN Tower was originally intended as an antenna for radio and television (it was the tallest in the world until 2011 when the Tokyo Skytree was inaugurated). Built between 1973 and 1976 by the Australian architect John Andrews, it is associated with Brutalism, a type of architecture that emerged from modernism and brings together all the hard and imposing concrete constructions, usually institutional, educational, commercial and residential buildings.

Today, it is the ^ninth tallest tower in the world, behind, among others, the Burj Khalifa Tower (United Arab Emirates), the Tokyo Skytree (Japan), the Abraj Al Bait Towers (Saudi Arabia) and the Canton Tower (China). It is also the tallest freestanding tower in the Western Hemisphere and is one of the seven wonders of the modern world, according to theAmerican Society of Civil Engineers, not to mention a member of the Federation of World's Tallest Towers. Much taller than the Eiffel Tower (553 meters vs. 321), the CN Tower is the city's iconic landmark and is featured on many postcards alongside the Rocky Mountains, the Chateau Frontenac and other great Canadian landmarks. And it's a sight to behold in the evening and at night as it lights up with 1,330 LEDs producing 16 million colors, no less. The lights change with the seasons and events (e.g.: white and red for Canada Day, orange for Halloween, white and blue for New Year's Day, etc.). However, during the bird migration season, from late September to late October, the lighting is reduced or even turned off in certain areas so as not to disturb the birds.

The CN Tower offers a vast panorama of Toronto, Lake Ontario and its islands, and walking on a glass floor at an altitude of nearly 350 meters is a striking experience. Many attractions complement the observation galleries, and can be bundled into a package or purchased a la carte:

Belvedere : from a height of 346 meters, accessible by glass-walled elevator in just 58 seconds. Completely renovated with floor-to-ceiling windows, it also houses the VUE Bistros (meals on the go) and, upstairs, the 360 Restaurant (gourmet Canadian cuisine, a great wine list and a breathtaking view).

Glass floor: just below the belvedere, with an outdoor observation gallery to feel the effects of the wind. Not recommended in winter!

Nacelle : at 447 meters, accessible by a separate elevator. Visibility extends to 160 km in good weather.

The Upper Sky (from early April to early January). This is the highest hands-free walkway in the world on a 1.50 meter wide ledge that goes around the Tower's observatory. Visitors walk in small groups, held to an overhead safety rail by a system that includes a cart and harness. The experience lasts 90 minutes, with 30 minutes outside. Tickets start at $195 CAD and include a souvenir video, photos and a certificate of completion. Participants will also receive a ticket for the Experience Tour, which includes access to all other attractions. Absolutely not recommended for those with a fear of heights!