A group of visitors stands inside the CN Tower in Toronto, looking out through large windows offering a panoramic view of the city and Lake Ontario. The mirrored ceiling above reflects the scene, creating a striking visual effect.

Is the CN Tower Worth Visiting in 2024?

ByJulie Millan Updated on

Absolutely. The CN Tower is worth visiting for anyone coming to Toronto, at least once. Located in the heart of Toronto, Canada, the CN Tower stands as the city’s most popular and visible landmark.

It’s all about the incredible 360-degree views of Toronto. You will definitely be amazed by the CN Tower during your first visit.

If you are interested in learning more about a visit to the CN Tower, keep reading, as I share all the information you need to have a great visit.

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Toronto skyline view from the top of the CN Tower. Views of Lake Ontario, various Toronto skyscrapers, Union Station and the Royal York Hotel are all visible.
Skyline views from the CN Tower.

What is Special About the CN Tower?

The CN Tower is not just the tallest building in Canada; it once held the title of the world’s tallest free-standing structure. Standing at an impressive 553.33 meters, it attracts more than 2 million visitors each year.

One of the tower’s most thrilling features is the EdgeWalk, the world’s highest full-circle, hands-free walk, and the first of its kind in North America. This experience lets you walk around the edge of the tower, 356 meters above the ground.

Dominating the Toronto skyline, the CN Tower is an iconic symbol of the city. Visitors can enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of Toronto and Lake Ontario, making it a must-see attraction.

Aerial view from the CN Tower in Toronto, showcasing the Rogers Centre stadium with its retractable roof, the city's waterfront, and the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport runway. The vast expanse of Lake Ontario stretches out into the horizon under a clear blue sky.
Views from the SkyPod at the CN Tower.

Things to Do at the CN Tower

A visit to the CN Tower is truly all about the view from the top, offering experiences like taking a glass-enclosed elevator up to the main observation deck at 346 meters, ascending to the SkyPod at 447 meters, or walking along the edge of the tower. 

Including a visit to the CN Tower in your Toronto travel itinerary ensures you’ll experience some of the city’s most breathtaking views and unique attractions.

Elevator Ride to the Top of the CN tower

Visitors standing around a small glass floor panel inside the CN Tower's elevator, looking down through the transparent section to the ground far below. The close-up view highlights the curiosity and excitement of the experience.
Riding the elevator with a glass panel in the floor.

Take high-speed, glass-enclosed elevators to reach the observation levels and enjoy panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. 

These elevators travel at an impressive speed of 22 kilometers per hour (15 miles per hour), whisking you from the ground floor to the Main Observation Level in just 58 seconds. For an extra thrill, there’s even a glass panel in the elevator floor.

Main Observation Deck

Looking at the Toronto skyline at dusk through floor to ceiling windows at the CN Tower Toronto.
Floor to ceiling windows provide optimal views of the Toronto skyline.

The primary observation deck of the CN Tower is the primary attraction for visitors. It is located at a height of about 346 meters (1,136 feet). With floor-to-ceiling windows, it’s a truly awesome place to take photos and see all of Toronto and beyond. The view is pretty awesome. 

Even though I live in Toronto, the view mesmerizes me every time I go. There is so much to see and the changing Toronto skyline is fascinating to see.  

On a clear day, you can see as far as 160 kilometers (100 miles) from the top—all the way to Niagara Falls and into New York State. You can also spot the Toronto Islands and watch planes taking off from the airport.

CN Tower Glass Floor

Visitors at the CN Tower enjoying the glass floor experience, looking down through the transparent panels to the ground far below. The curved wall displays a vibrant digital mural of flowers and greenery, adding a dynamic and colorful backdrop to the scene.
Glass floor with views down to the ground below.

Just a few steps below the main observation deck is the lower observation level. Here, glass floor panels allow you to look straight down to the ground below, adding an exhilarating element to your visit. 

There is also a new feature, called the Overview, where visitors have the opportunity to stand and lean over the glass windows, giving you a bird’s eye view of the city below.

The lower observation level continues to undergo some upgrades and renovations to continue to improve the experience for visitors.

The Top (formerly SkyPod)

Visitors inside the CN Tower's SkyPod, leaning over the railing to take in the breathtaking view of Toronto's skyline through the tilted windows. The scene outside reveals a sprawling urban landscape under a clear blue sky.
Visitors look out the glass windows of the SkyPod.

The SkyPod is an even higher observation deck located at a height of about 447 meters (1,465 feet), 33 stories above the main observation deck. This smaller observation deck offers even more breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas. 

It costs an additional $10 to go up to the SkyPod, and the timed ticket system helps reduce overcrowding. You can spend as long as you like on the SkyPod and return to the Main Observation Deck when you’re done. 

I recently went up to the SkyPod for the first time, and I was so surprised by how great the views were. It was definitely worth purchasing the additional ticket. As someone who really loves a great view, I highly recommend this experience.

A view from the CN Tower looking east, capturing the shadow of the tower stretching over the cityscape. The scene includes numerous high-rise buildings, the Union Station rail yard, and the waterfront with Lake Ontario in the background under a clear blue sky.

CN Tower 360 Restaurant

The CN Tower also houses a revolving restaurant called 360, which offers fine dining with stunning views as it slowly rotates, completing a full rotation every 72 minutes.

Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant requires a minimum spend of $75 on food per person (or $40 for children aged 4 to 12), which includes admission to the observation floor. Having a meal here is certainly a unique dining experience.

A credit card is required to book your reservation, and cancelling with less than 24 hours’ notice results in a charge of $30 per person.

Is the CN Tower Restaurant Worth Visiting?

In my opinion, it’s not a restaurant I would recommend visiting in Toronto. The food reviews are not great, and you can get the views from other parts of the CN Tower.

I would recommend spending the extra money for a visit to the SkyPod instead. Afterward, you can explore another Toronto restaurant with an awesome view.

CN Tower EdgeWalk

The CN Tower in Toronto, with a bright blue sky as the backdrop. The tower's EdgeWalk attraction is visible, where visitors can be seen walking around the outside ledge near the top.
Look closely to see visitors doing the EdgeWalk at the CN Tower.

For the more adventurous visitors, the CN Tower offers the EdgeWalk experience, where participants can walk along the edge of the main pod’s roof, harnessed to a safety rail. 

This full-circle, hands-free walk is 116 stories above the ground on a 5 ft (1.5 m) wide ledge. The EdgeWalk at the CN Tower still holds the Guinness World Record for the highest external walk on a building in the world.

EdgeWalk operates seasonally in almost every kind of weather. This experience comes at an additional cost: High Demand times are $225.00, and Regular tickets are $199.00. Your EdgeWalk ticket includes access to both the main observation level and The Top (SkyPod).

Snacks and Refreshments

The dining area inside the CN Tower, where visitors are seated at tables enjoying their meals. The space is bright and modern, with large windows providing panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape.
Lots of seating is available at the CN Tower.

Several snack food options and bars are also located on the main observation level. You can find a variety of items, including salads, sandwiches, and meals such as fish and chips and chicken fingers. 

The bars are licensed, and there are tables and areas where you can sit, enjoy your food, and take in the view.

CN Tower Gift Shop

The gift shop inside the CN Tower, featuring a modern design with colorful, geometric light fixtures hanging from the ceiling. Shelves are stocked with a variety of souvenirs, including plush toys, clothing, and local products, while visitors browse the displays.
The CN Tower gift shop is a great place to pick up souvenirs.

The CN Tower has a large gift shop on the ground level where you can pick up some great Canada and Toronto souvenirs. There’s also a café and snack bar, perfect for a quick refreshment at the end of your visit. 

You don’t need a ticket to visit the gift shop, so even if you don’t go up the tower, visitors can stop by the shop and pick up some excellent Canadian souvenirs.

Kidzone

The Kid Zone inside the CN Tower, featuring a colorful play area with interactive panels, climbing structures, and playful seating. The vibrant and inviting space is designed to entertain children, with soft flooring and a variety of engaging activities.

Located beside the gift shop, Kidzone isn’t spectacular, but it provides a space for small children to run and play at the end of the tour, making it a convenient stop for families.

Planning Your Trip to the CN Tower

Now that you’ve decided to buy a ticket to the CN Tower, here are some additional details to help you plan your visit. 

Located in downtown Toronto, the CN Tower is close to Union Station and many other attractions, such as the aquarium, Toronto Waterfront and the Toronto Islands, Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, and the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Buying Tickets to the CN Tower

The entrance to the CN Tower in Toronto, featuring a large welcome sign in English and French. The modern interior is highlighted by sleek lighting fixtures and a view into the brightly lit gift shop area.
CN Tower Entrance

The CN Tower is open year-round from 9:30 am to 9:30 pm, and tickets are date and time specific. Each ticket includes one trip up to the observation tower and back down. 

While there’s no limit on how long you can stay, I recommend planning to spend 1-2 hours at the CN Tower to fully enjoy the experience. 

Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the tower. Tickets online currently cost $43 for adults, $30 for youth (6-13), and $14 for children (3-5). Going up to the SkyPod costs an additional $10.

SkyPod tickets can be purchased together with general admission, or on the main observation level, allowing flexibility for those unsure if they want to participate in this additional experience.

If you are also interested in visiting Ripley’s Aquarium, you can also purchase a combined ticket for a reduced price.

Are there Discount Tickets Available for the CN Tower?

Yes. There are a few ways to get discounted tickets to the CN Tower, including using a Presto Card, CAA Membership, or through the Toronto Public Library. 

When is the Best Time to Visit the CN Tower?

A stunning night view from the CN Tower, capturing the illuminated Toronto skyline. The city lights create a vibrant tapestry of colors against the dark sky, highlighting the bustling urban landscape below.
The Toronto skyline at night.

I would suggest that the best time to visit the CN Tower is mostly weather-dependent. Avoid foggy or cloudy days to ensure the best views. Pairing your visit with an event, such as a Blue Jays game, can also be a great idea. 

I’ve seen long lines to visit the CN Tower just before a Blue Jays game and on busy summer days. To avoid the crowds and long lines, go first thing in the morning or later in the evening to have the observation area almost to yourself.

The views at night from the top of the tower are something else—it’s amazing once the sun goes down, so visiting at dusk may be appealing for those wanting to capture a Toronto sunset.

Can You Walk Up the Stairs of the CN Tower?

There are only two opportunities to walk up the 1776 stairs of the CN Tower, both during long-standing annual fundraisers. One event is for the World Wildlife Federation, and the other is for the United Way.

Visitors leaning against the angled windows inside the CN Tower, offering a unique perspective of Toronto's waterfront and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. The modern interior features wavy ceiling designs, creating a stylish and inviting atmosphere.
The Overview allows visitors to get a birds-eye view of the city below.

Tips for Visiting the CN Tower

If you’re considering going to the top of the CN Tower in Toronto, here are some tips to help make the most of your visit:

  • Book Your Tickets in Advance:
    • To avoid waiting in long lines, book your tickets online in advance.
    • SkyPod tickets are timed with a limited capacity, so purchase both your main ticket and the SkyPod ticket together if you are sure you want to go up to the very top.
    • The 360 Restaurant requires a reservation, so book ahead if you plan to dine there.
  • Choose the Right Time:
    • Visit during off-peak times, like early morning or late evening, to avoid crowds.
  • Watch the Weather:
    • Avoid visiting on foggy or cloudy days, as you won’t see much.
    • Consider exchanging your ticket for a different time or day in these circumstances.
    • Be patient, sometimes it just takes a few minutes for the weather to clear
  • Bring Your Camera:
    • To take great pictures through glass, put your phone right up to the glass.
    • Use a lens hood if you can to reduce glare from the glass.
  • Download the CN Tower Viewfinder App:
    • The app helps to identify almost 100 buildings and points of interest around Toronto when you use it on the Main Observation Level.
  • Security Check:
    • Be prepared to go through security before going up the CN Tower.
  • Food, Backpacks, and Tripods
    • While there is a security check, food, regular backpacks, and tripods are allowed up the tower.
    • Luggage, however, can not be taken up the tower, and there are no lockers on site.
Visitors inside the CN Tower, gazing out through large windows at a foggy Toronto skyline. The mirrored ceiling above reflects the scene, enhancing the effect of the misty, atmospheric view outside.
Top of the CN Tower on a foggy day.

Is the CN Tower Worth the Money?

As a resident of Toronto, I do think a visit to the CN Tower is worth visiting at least once. It’s one of my favourite Toronto attractions, and I really enjoy bringing friends and family to visit the tower when they are in the city.

While I personally have not been brave enough to do the EdgeWalk, my cousin and her husband did do the walk, and loved it! It’s a memory they still talk about to this day.

While a trip up the tower is not inexpensive, it is a memorable experience, and the views are truly breathtaking!

If you’re in Toronto, it’s a must-visit landmark and definitely worth adding to any Toronto itinerary.

Where to Stay Near the CN Tower

There are many hotels in the downtown Toronto area close to the CN Tower. Here are my top recommendations for hotels near the CN Tower.

Best Hotel Close to the CN Tower: Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto
✓ One of Toronto’s newer hotels located beside the CN Tower and Union Station.

Waterfront Hotel with Rooftop Pool: Radisson Blu Downtown Toronto
✓Located on the waterfront, Radisson Blu has a gorgeous rooftop pool with views of the CN Tower.

My Top Hotel Recommendation in Toronto: Sheraton Centre Downtown Toronto
✓Newly renovated hotel with an incredible indoor-outdoor pool. Located across from the iconic Toronto sign and the Eaton Centre Shopping Mall.

⭐️ For further information on hotels in Toronto, visit my other articles:
☞ Honest Review of Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
☞ Best Hotels in Toronto with a Pool

Aerial view of Toronto's waterfront showing a busy highway with cars, high-rise buildings, marina filled with boats, and green spaces and the rooftop hotel pool at Radisson Blue. Lake Ontario is visible in the background, creating a picturesque urban landscape.
View of the rooftop pool at Radisson Blu from the top of the CN tower.

Before You Go: More Toronto Posts

Now that you’ve read this post about the CN Tower, you might be interested in exploring more of what Toronto has to offer. My review of Toronto’s Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a helpful overview of one of Toronto’s best tours.

Discover the best beaches for relaxation and fun in the city with my guide to Toronto’s top beaches.

Plan your perfect day trip with my comprehensive guide to the Toronto Islands. And don’t forget to find the perfect captions to make your Toronto photos stand out on Instagram with my list of creative and fun Toronto Instagram captions.

Julie is a travel blogger from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She loves to travel and has learned so much from other travel bloggers that she now wants to share her travel knowledge with others.

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