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Why the CN Tower should be on your list of things to do in Toronto

Toronto’s CN Tower, one of the Engineering Wonders of the Modern World, is an architectural marvel. It’s also Canada’s most recognizable icon. What started as a communications tower has become an amazing tourist destination and a must-see stop when visiting Toronto. 

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History of The CN Tower in Toronto

Since its opening in 1976, the CN Tower stood as one of the tallest free-standing structures in the world.  It’s been attracting visitors with stunning views of the city ever since. Over the years, additional attractions have ensured that CN Tower remains on top of every tourist’s list visiting Toronto.

“Building the CN Tower was a vast and ambitious project that involved 1,537 workers who worked 24 hours a day, five days a week for 40 months to completion.”  

CN Tower

Toronto is situated on the shores of Lake Ontario, and it fans out north of the lake. Located close to the waterfront, the CN Tower acts as the central point of the city. It provides a general point of reference for those needing help with special orientation. Understanding where you are in relation to the tower makes getting around Toronto much easier.

Top reasons for visiting the CN Tower

A stop in Toronto can’t be complete without a stop at the CN Tower. Spectacular views, daring adventures and exploration under the sea await.

The views

With multiple viewing platforms, you can get some pretty impressive views of Toronto at 553.33 m (1,815 ft 5 in) above ground.  Depending on the weather, you can catch a glimpse of the city in different elements. Bathed in sunshine, glimmering with night lights or shrouded in fog. I’m not sure which is my favourite, but I definitely enjoy them all.

Since 1994, visitors have been testing their fears by standing or even sitting on the 2.5″ thick glass floor that lets you look straight down below. Scary for some, exhilarating for others and definitely worth checking out.

The CN Tower not only offers great views of the city, but it’s also a great subject to photograph. After looking at my Instagram feed, I realized I take a lot of photos of the tower. It’s just so photogenic 🙂

A thrill seeker’s dream

When the Edgewalk opened a few years ago at the top of the CN Tower, I knew that I had to go. It seemed so unreal and scary all at the same time.  I have a fear of heights, so this seemed like a perfect way to embrace it. And embrace it I did, along with my friend Angela. It was all I expected and more.

We went on a clear and sunny day, and you could see Buffalo across Lake Ontario.  It was spectacular and still one of the coolest things I’ve done. If you’re a thrill-seeker or want to push your limits, this is something I definitely recommend.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

The Aquarium is a fairly recent attraction to the CN Tower, and I must say I was skeptical about its appeal at first.  It’s just a very large fish tank, and they have a number of these around the world. What’s the big deal? Boy, was I wrong.

Once inside, you’re able to walk around and underneath some very impressive displays of aquatic life. You can marvel at the many species of colourful fish, turtles, stingrays, jellyfish and plants as you wander the massive space. My favourite place is a moving sidewalk that takes you under massive aquariums filled with sharks and stingrays. It’s like being on the bottom of the sea with sharks swimming menacingly above you, but safer.

There are, of course, many educational stations and activities for adults and kids alike. My niece loves visiting the aquarium, and you can also learn a thing or two about the creatures of the seas. The venue organizes jazz nights on certain Fridays that are worth checking out if you have the time. I’ve attended several events that were held here, and I’m still in awe of this place.

Out and around the CN Tower

If you need a break from all the adventures at the CN Tower, there are plenty of things to do around it.

Catch a game – Both Roger’s Centre and the Air Canada Centre are within a rock’s throw.  You might be able to catch a baseball or basketball game, a concert, or a show.  Finding out ahead of time what events are happening during your visit will help you schedule your visit. It’s also a good idea to get the tickets ahead of time.

Literally across the street is a former steam locomotive repair facility that dates back to 1929. It has been converted into a brewery, and you can take a tour to learn how Steamwhistle beer is made.  I’ve been on tour a few times, and for some reason, I can never remember the whole story.  It could be the generous beer sampling 🙂

Take a stroll over to the Union Station or along the waterfront – there are plenty of things to do and see there. Not to mention many great photo ops.

What you need to know

The Edgewalk price is $225 CAD (plus tax) per person, and this includes a keepsake video, printed photos and certificate of achievement. You will also get a Tower Experience Ticket which includes access to the LookOut, Glass Floor and SkyPod levels. You should book tickets in advance.

Tickets vary based on general admission to a combination of the SkyPod and Ripley’s Aquarium. You can book your tickets online and be prepared for large lineups during peak season.

The tickets for Ripley’s can be purchased online or at the venue. Adult ticket bought online is $30 CAD while the online price is $33 CAD. Not a huge difference, but you might avoid a potentially long wait if you purchase ahead of your visit.

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