“10 Mind-Blowing Secrets About the CN Tower You Never Knew – Including the Terrifying EdgeWalk Experience!”

The CN Tower in Toronto is one of Canada’s most famous landmarks and a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Standing tall in Toronto’s skyline, it is not only an engineering marvel but also a key tourist attraction offering breathtaking views, thrilling activities, and unique experiences. In this blog, we’ll dive into some of the most frequently asked questions about the CN Tower and provide detailed answers.

1. How tall is the CN Tower?

The CN Tower stands at an impressive height of 553.3 meters (1,815 feet), making it the tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere. At the time of its completion in 1976, it was the tallest tower in the world, and it held that title for 34 years until the Burj Khalifa surpassed it in 2010.

2. What is the CN Tower used for?

The CN Tower was originally constructed for communications and broadcasting purposes. Toronto needed a structure tall enough to transmit radio and television signals without interference from the growing number of skyscrapers. Today, it continues to serve as a communications hub, transmitting signals for TV, radio, and cellular networks. However, its role as a major tourist attraction is what it is most famous for now, drawing over 1.5 million visitors annually.

3. Can you go to the top of the CN Tower?

Yes, you can visit the observation levels at the top of the CN Tower! The main public areas include the LookOut Level, the Glass Floor, and the SkyPod, each offering unique perspectives of Toronto and beyond. The LookOut Level, situated at 346 meters (1,136 feet), provides panoramic views, while the SkyPod, one of the highest observation decks in the world, sits at a dizzying 447 meters (1,465 feet). You can also stand on the Glass Floor, which offers a thrilling view of the city directly beneath your feet from 342 meters above ground.

4. How long does it take to go up the CN Tower?

Visitors reach the top of the CN Tower via a glass-fronted elevator that takes just 58 seconds to reach the LookOut Level. The elevator travels at a speed of 22 kilometers per hour (15 miles per hour). Despite the quick ascent, the ride offers a stunning view of Toronto and Lake Ontario, preparing you for the incredible vistas that await at the top.

5. What is the EdgeWalk at the CN Tower?

The EdgeWalk is one of the CN Tower’s most exhilarating attractions, offering a chance for thrill-seekers to step outside the tower at 356 meters (1,168 feet) above the ground. Participants are harnessed in and can walk along the 1.5-meter-wide ledge that circles the top of the tower’s main pod. This hands-free adventure lets you lean out over the edge of the CN Tower for a heart-pounding experience. EdgeWalk is the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk and has become one of the most popular activities for visitors looking for an adrenaline rush.

6. How much does it cost to visit the CN Tower?

The cost of visiting the CN Tower varies depending on the experiences you choose. As of 2024, general admission, which includes access to the LookOut Level and Glass Floor, costs around $43 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors, and families. For those wanting to visit the SkyPod, it’s an additional $15. The EdgeWalk experience, due to its extreme nature and guided tour, is priced higher at approximately $195 per person.

7. Is the CN Tower one of the tallest buildings in the world?

The CN Tower was once the tallest free-standing structure in the world when it was completed in 1976. However, it has since been surpassed by other structures, including the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is currently the tallest building in the world at 828 meters (2,717 feet). Despite this, the CN Tower remains the tallest in the Western Hemisphere and is ranked among the tallest free-standing towers globally.

8. What can you see from the CN Tower observation deck?

From the CN Tower’s LookOut Level, you can enjoy 360-degree views of Toronto, including major landmarks like the Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, and Toronto Islands. On a clear day, the view extends as far as 160 kilometers (100 miles), allowing you to see the skylines of neighboring cities like Niagara Falls and even the U.S. border across Lake Ontario. The SkyPod, the highest accessible area, provides an even more expansive view of the surrounding region.

9. When was the CN Tower built?

Construction of the CN Tower began in 1973 and was completed in 1976. The tower was built by the Canadian National Railway (hence the “CN” in its name) to address communication issues caused by Toronto’s growing skyline. It took over 1,500 workers and cost around $63 million to complete. The tower opened to the public on June 26, 1976, and has since become an iconic symbol of Toronto and Canada.

10. How do they light up the CN Tower at night?

The CN Tower is beautifully illuminated at night, thanks to a state-of-the-art LED lighting system installed in 2007. These lights can change color to celebrate special occasions, holidays, or cultural events. For example, the tower glows red and white on Canada Day, and it’s often lit in the colors of the local sports teams when they have major events or victories. The lighting is energy-efficient and provides a stunning night-time spectacle visible from miles away.

Conclusion

The CN Tower remains one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in the world. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline-filled experience like EdgeWalk, or you want to enjoy breathtaking views of Toronto and beyond, the CN Tower offers something for everyone. Its blend of engineering, history, and tourism makes it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Toronto.