Sydney Tower : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 19 Jun, 2023
- |
Sydney Tower has dominated the Sydney skyline for more than 35 years! This iconic structure offers a variety of attractions and activities to visitors. Known as the tallest building in the southern hemisphere, Sydney Tower is located at the center of Sydney’s CBD, offering unbeatable 360-degree views of the city. From the observation deck, you can see across the harbor and surrounding suburbs to the Blue Mountains. If you’re looking for some exciting things to do, Sydney Tower has something for everyone. On this page, you’ll find interesting facts, travel tips, and information about the attractions that the tower has to offer. So, don your explorer hat and find out more about this fascinating Sydney landmark!
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Sydney Tower
1. Sydney Tower is the tallest structure in Sydney and the second tallest in Australia, standing at 309 metres high.
2. The highest observatory in Sydney, the Sydney Tower Eye, is located within the Sydney Tower and rises to 245 metres above the ground.
3. Sydney Tower is also known as the Centerpoint Tower, AMP Tower and Sydney Sky Tower.
4. The architecture of Sydney Tower is styled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris, with a pyramid top, resembling a hat.
5. The tower was originally commissioned in 1981 and construction was completed in 1981.
6. Inside Sydney Tower, there are two restaurants, the Tower eye theatre, as well as a souvenir shop and a tourist information centre.
7. The entire structure is lit up with over 120 kilometres of fibre optic lighting.
8. On the observation deck, there is a high powered telescope which gives visitors a 360 degree panoramic view of the city.
9. The Sydney Tower is open all year round and is popular among tourists and locals alike.
10. One of the most popular attractions of Sydney Tower is the ‘Skywalk’, a glass-bottomed walkway on the outside of the tower which offers breathtaking views of the city.
History & Information About Sydney Tower
Sydney Tower is an observation and restaurant tower located on the corner of Market Street and Castlereagh Street in the Sydney central business district of New South Wales, Australia. Standing 309 metres (1,014 ft) above the city and located next to Westfield Shopping Centre, Sydney Tower is the tallest freestanding structure in the city and the second-tallest in Australia.
The tower was completed in 1981 and was formally opened on 11 October 1981, by the then Prime Minister of Australia, Malcolm Fraser.
Designed by Australia’s leading architecture firm at the time, Sydney-based Bruce Hardingham International Pty Ltd., the tower consists of two sections, the steel shaft and the multi-level observation deck, which is enclosed in a framework of glass fibre reinforced concrete.
The observation area was designed to absorb movement from a seismic source such as an earthquake, and the design has been used in other structures around the world. The tower and its restaurant offering 360° views of the city have become one of the main attractions in the city, with over one million people visiting annually.
At the base of the tower is the 4D cinema showing a 26-minute film on the history of Sydney, and a souvenir shop, while the observation deck area of the tower includes a cafe and viewing gallery, Skywalk, and the Sydney Tower Eye. The Eye features a 24-Hour time-lapse movie experience showing the changing skies and varying light over the city and harbor, and a range of audio-visual presentations to explain the features and history of the city.
Since its opening in 1981, the Sydney Tower has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, and continues to host a variety of attractions for visitors.
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Travel Guide For Visiting Sydney Tower
Sydney Tower is an iconic landmark in the city of Sydney, Australia. Located in the Central Business District, the tower is the tallest structure in Sydney, standing at around 309 metres tall. It’s certainly a must-see on any trip to the city, and here’s your guide on how to make the most of your visit to Sydney Tower.
1. Getting There
The easiest way to get to Sydney Tower is by taking the light rail from Central Station, or a taxi or ride-sharing service. Once you’ve arrived, don’t forget to leave yourself ample time to explore the lobby of the tower, as it’s full of interesting displays and information about the history of the tower.
2. City Skyline Views
To get to the top of the tower, make sure you purchase tickets to the observation deck. Here, you’ll be met with breath-taking views of the entire city skyline. On a clear day, you can even spot the nearby Blue Mountains in the distance.
3. Dare to Skywalk
If you’re feeling brave enough, the Sydney Tower also offers a daring experience – the Skywalk. Here, you’ll be able to walk around the perimeter of the summit of the tower, with a curved glass floor beneath you. Don’t forget to take a few photos to capture the moment!
4. Dine in the Sky
The Sydney Tower is also home to the 360 Bar & Dining Room. Located at the top of the tower, it’s a great spot to enjoy a delicious meal and a drink whilst admiring the stunning skyline. Reservations are highly recommended for dinner as it does get quite busy.
5. Other Experiences
The Sydney Tower also offers several other experiences that are worth checking out. You can experience “the pylon lookout” – a guided tour along the outside of the tower and into one of the bridge pylons. Alternatively, you can purchase a State of the Art Opal Card which provides discounts and exclusive offers to use in Sydney Tower and the surrounding area.
Whether you’re looking to take in the views from the top of the tower, or take part in a daring experience, a visit to Sydney Tower is something you won’t forget.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sydney Tower
Q: Where is Sydney Tower located?
A: Sydney Tower is located in the Central Business District (CBD) of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Q: How tall is Sydney Tower?
A: Sydney Tower stands 309 metres (1,014 feet) above the city of Sydney.
Q: Are there any activities offered at Sydney Tower?
A: Yes. Sydney Tower is home to SKYWALK: an outdoor walk around the rim of the observation deck 259 metres (850 feet) above street level. Other activities offered at Sydney Tower include the Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck, the 4D Cinema Experience, and the Sydney Tower Buffet.
Q: Are there any age restrictions at Sydney Tower?
A: Yes. All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18.
Q: How much does it cost to visit Sydney Tower?
A: Admission prices vary depending on the activities you wish to experience. The Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck ticket starts at AUD $15.00 per person.