CN Tower

At 553 meter (1,815 feet) in height, the CN Tower is technically the world’s tallest building (if you include communications towers and not just habitable space). The tower won't keep its status as the world's tallest for much longer as it will be officially eclipsed by the 'Burj Dubai' when the latter is completed in 2009.

The Toronto Tourist Board estimates that approximately 2 million visitors annually head to the tower, which was built in 1976 by Canadian National in hopes of demonstrating “the strength of Canadian industry by building a tower taller than any other in the world.”

However, the CN Tower was actually built for more practical reasons as well. A Canadian construction boom in the 1960s transformed the downtown area into a region of skyscrapers, causing a major telecommunications problem throughout the city of Toronto. With its microwave receptors located at 338m (1,109 ft.) and 553m (1,815 ft), the CN Tower quickly solved the communication problems for the city, which had become a major concern for both businesses and residents.

If you’re not afraid of heights, visiting the CN Tower is one of the greatest experiences you’ll enjoy in Toronto. Soar up to 342 m (1,122 feet) and you’ll arrive at the outdoor observation deck where, on a clear day, you’ll be treated to amazing views of the city. There’s also an “elephant-proof” glass floor located indoors where you can look straight down to the street level. No one’s ever fallen through it and never will, but taking that first step onto the glass floor is, nonetheless, a little scary!

Ascend another 14 feet and you’ll hit the Indoor Observation Deck (great for cold weather days) as well as the Horizons Café, where you can grab a light meal with a great view.

Hop on the elevator again and you’ll reach 360, the CN Tower’s restaurant, which rotates once every 72 minutes, providing visitors with a complete and unobstructed view of the city.

If that’s not high enough for you, continue on to the world’s highest public observation deck, Sky Pod, which sits at 447 meter (1,465 feet)!

Kids love the arcade and motion simulator ride located at the base of the tower. Also at the base, guests can also enjoy a 15-minute documentary entitled “To the Top”, a great film about the building of the CN Tower.