There’s something about being suspended in midair that provides an unparalleled thrill. Whether it comes from riding a roller coaster, skydiving or bungee jumping, there's no denying that humans love to defy gravity. For those seeking even more intense experiences, here are 10 amazing structures around the world that will leave visitors in awe.
If you’re looking to blend sightseeing with an adrenaline rush, the Edge in New York is the perfect option. Located on the 100th floor of the sleek Hudson Yards tower, the Edge juts out 80 feet from the building's edge, providing unparalleled views of the city from 1,131 feet in the air. Visitors can stand on a glass floor and look down on the bustling city below.
Sydney's Harbor Bridge is one of the city’s most iconic structures, and the BridgeClimb experience provides an incredible view that’s not to be missed. Visitors can make the climb to the top of the bridge, 440 feet above sea level, and take in the stunning views of the city skyline and harbor. The climb lasts for approximately 3.5 hours, and participants will be secured to the bridge throughout the experience.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a glass bridge that extends 70 feet out from the cliffs of the Grand Canyon, 4,000 feet above the Colorado River. Visitors can walk on the transparent floor and look down at the river flowing below. The Skywalk can hold up to 100 people at once, and it's open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the canyon's beauty no matter what time of year they visit.
The Eureka Skydeck is located on the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower in Melbourne, offering breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can walk on a glass floor that extends out from the building, providing an unobstructed 360-degree view of Melbourne.
The CN Tower is a Canadian landmark, and the Edgewalk provides a unique experience for thrill-seekers. The Edgewalk is a hands-free walk around the outside of the tower, 1,168 feet above the ground. Participants are secured to a harness and moved along a narrow walkway while enjoying a stunning view of Toronto.
The Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world, reaching a height of 2,080 feet. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck on the 450th floor, providing a panoramic view of the city. One of the highlights of the Tokyo Skytree is the glass floor, allowing visitors to look down at the city's streets below.
The Burj Khalifa is currently the tallest building in the world, standing at a towering 2,717 feet. Visitors can take a speedy elevator ride to the observation deck on the 124th floor, offering a bird's-eye view of Dubai. The observation deck is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass, providing a stunning view of the city skyline.
The Tilt is located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center in Chicago, offering a heart-pumping experience for visitors. The Tilt is a platform that moves outward, leaning visitors downward at a 30-degree angle, providing a unique view of the city from above.
The Stratosphere Tower in Las Vegas is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States, standing at 1,149 feet tall. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy stunning views of the city. Those looking for an even more thrilling experience can ride the Big Shot, X-Scream or Insanity, which dangle riders over the edge of the tower and provide a rush of adrenaline.
The Blackpool Tower is a Victorian-era structure that’s over 158 years old. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower, where they'll find the SkyWalk, a glass floor that extends out over the roof of the tower. Visitors can look down on the streets of Blackpool while standing on the transparent floor.
Yes, these structures are designed with safety in mind. Visitors are required to follow all safety regulations and will be secured to a harness or other safety equipment during the experience.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended for most of these experiences, and clothing that restricts movement is discouraged. For experiences that may require formal attire, such as the Edge in New York or the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, visitors should check the dress code before their visit.
Visitors can enjoy these experiences at any time of day, but the best time will depend on the structure and the location. For example, the Grand Canyon Skywalk is open year-round, but summer months are often peak tourist season, while the Stratosphere Tower in Las Vegas may be less crowded in the morning or late at night.
The minimum age requirement will vary depending on the structure and the specific experience. Some experiences may have age restrictions, while others may require visitors to be a certain height or weight. Visitors should check the specific requirements for each structure before booking their visit.
While these experiences are designed to provide a thrill, they may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights. Visitors with a fear of heights should avoid these experiences or speak with a doctor or therapist before visiting.
Whether you’re seeking a thrill, breathtaking views or a unique experience, these gravity-defying structures are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Just be sure to follow all safety regulations and check specific requirements before booking your visit.