In the Spotlight: CN Tower

More than an engineering wonder — there’s award-winning dining too.

Standing at 553 m (1,815 ft), the CN Tower (290 Bremner Blvd.) is the tallest free-standing structure in the western hemisphere and one of Toronto’s most popular attractions for tourists and locals of all ages alike. While nothing compares to seeing it IRL, you can still get a peek at the view from the top with their CN Tower Earth Cam. Find fun activities to do at home and get the whole family excited for a visit in person.

Prefer a view from outside? It’s true — you can catch a glimpse of the Tower from almost anywhere in the city but these picture-perfect locations offer the best views for that obligatory photo for your ‘gram. Check out the CN Tower Instagram for nightly light shows or watch on their Earth Cam.

Places to eat at or near the CN Tower

Whether you crave a fancy dinner or something quick on the go, there is no shortage of food around the CN Tower. Here a few options that will help enhance your experience. 

360 Restaurant

Looking for a memorable dining experience? The CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant is the place to be. Featuring spectacular 360-degree views of the city from atop the Tower and an inventive, Canadian-sourced seasonal menu, 360 is an inspiring gastronomic experience in an unsurpassed setting. The restaurant boasts an extensive array of wines from Canada and around the world with its innovative “cellar in the sky”, the world’s highest wine cellar. The recipient of several awards, 360 welcomes groups, parties, associations and is the perfect place to celebrate any occasion. Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by calling 416-362-541.

Le Café

Located at the base of the CN Tower, Le Café caters to a wide array of tastes, providing a delicious range of reasonably priced fresh market fare and beverages ideal for visitors and those on the go. Selections include pizza, salads and sandwiches, plus freshly brewed coffee, gourmet teas and a tempting variety of baked goods.

Vue Bistros

While taking in the 360 degree panoramic views of the city, there are three bistros where visitors can snack on Canadian food and beverages. The observation level can also be used for events and host up to 700 guests.

Hunters Landing

This local gem is beloved by locals and tourists alike. With a lovely patio, and cozy atmosphere and delicious menu options at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong here. The Korean cauliflower is divine. 82 Fort York Blvd.

Aria

With an airy interior and extensive wine list, this elevated Italian gem is the perfect spot to catch a view of Maple Leaf Square. The menu focuses on local and sustainable options. 25 York St.

Things to see at the CN Tower

In 2011, the CN Tower opened EdgeWalk — the first attraction of its kind in North America. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to feel the open air 356 m (1,168 ft) above Toronto, EdgeWalk is for you. The world’s highest full circle hands-free walk takes place on a 1.5 m (5 ft) ledge encircling the top of the CN Tower’s main pod. Visitors walk around the pod while attached to an overhead rail by a secure harness.

A trained EdgeWalk guide leads the tour, which runs for approximately 1.5 hours (the outside portion lasts approximately half an hour). During the walk, you will have the opportunity to lean back over the city with nothing but open air between you and the ground — an unforgettable photo op to share with your friends once you get back to Earth! Tickets for EdgeWalk include a keepsake video, printed photos and certificate of achievement. Ticketholders also get access to LookOut, Glass Floor and SkyPod. All this, plus lifelong bragging rights and a truly unforgettable experience!

Shopping at the CN Tower

A selection of the most popular items is available for purchase online. If you’re visiting in person, don’t forget to drop by the 8,000 sq ft gift shop on your way out. Memorabilia such as First Nations arts and crafts, Canadiana and miniature CN Tower replicas are perfect souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Fun facts about the CN Tower

• The CN Tower was classified as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1995
• The Tower took 40 months to build and cost $63 million
• The 360 Restaurant takes 72 minutes to complete one full revolution
• The Tower weighs 117,910 metric tonnes or the equivalent of 16,844 large male elephants
• The Tower’s intelligent LED light system changes colour depending on occasion or season
• At 553 m, the CN Tower is the tallest free-standing structure in the western hemisphere

How to get to the CN Tower

By Car from the South or West: Follow the QEW into Toronto, where it turns into the Gardiner Expressway. Exit onto Spadina Avenue North and turn right onto Bremner Boulevard.

By Car from the East: Take Highway 401 into Toronto and exit onto the Don Valley Parkway Southbound. As you approach Downtown, this will turn into the Gardiner Expressway. Exit at Spadina Avenue North and turn right onto Bremner Boulevard.

By the Car from the North: Take Highway 400 into Toronto, exiting onto Highway 401 West. Continue until you reach Highway 427 southbound. Follow Highway 427 to downtown via the QEW/Gardiner Expressway. Exit onto Spadina Avenue North and turn right onto Bremner Boulevard.

Parking: South lot of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and the Impark lot on Navy Wharf.

By TTC: From Union Station walk west along Front Street.

By Union Pearson Express (UP): From Union Station walk west along Front Street.

By GO Transit: From Union Station walk west along Front.