Tower of the Americas – This Stop is Temporarily Closed

For those looking to experience the Tower of the Americas in all its glory, the Old Town Trolley offers an unparalleled perspective of this iconic structure. This unique mode of transportation not only presents a distinctive and fun way to explore San Antonio but also provides a comprehensive route that stops at the tower. With the convenience of hop-on, hop-off service, visitors have the flexibility to spend as much time as they wish at the tower, unhurried by the constraints of a typical tour schedule. In addition, the trolley’s open-air design allows for unobstructed views, making it a truly great way to see and appreciate the Tower of the Americas in all its magnificence.

History of the Tower of the Americas

The Tower of the Americas stands as an enduring symbol of San Antonio’s skyline, embodying the city’s architectural prowess. Conceived by the esteemed San Antonio architect O’Neil Ford, this iconic structure is a testament to his influential legacy. Its genesis dates back to a grand vision: to serve as the thematic centerpiece for the 1968 World’s Fair, HemisFair ’68, an international exposition celebrating San Antonio’s rich cultural tapestry and its transition into the modern era.

The nomenclature of this remarkable tower was determined through an innovative “name the tower” contest initiated by the executive committee. Engaging the public, this contest yielded an impressive response, with 68 submissions. The winning name, “Tower of the Americas,” perfectly captures the essence of the structure, symbolizing its role in bridging diverse cultures.

Upon its completion in 1968, the Tower of the Americas proudly held the title of the tallest observation tower in the United States until 1996, when the Las Vegas Stratosphere Tower surpassed it. Despite this, the Tower of the Americas remains the tallest occupiable structure in San Antonio and presently ranks as the 30th tallest occupiable structure in Texas.

In 2019, the Tower of the Americas marked its 50th anniversary, a significant milestone in its rich history. Standing tall as a silent witness to the city’s evolution, it symbolizes San Antonio’s dynamic culture, storied past, and ongoing progress. Today, the Tower of the Americas beckons both locals and visitors, serving as a beacon for those eager to explore and appreciate the distinctive charm of San Antonio.

Tower of the Americas Fun Facts

• The Tower of the Americas was built for the 1968 HemisFair World’s Fair, a grand event that celebrated San Antonio’s 250th anniversary.
• Construction of this remarkable structure commenced in 1966 and took 18 months to finalize.
• Standing at a towering height of 750 feet, it boasts the title of the tallest observation tower in Texas.
• It held the title of the tallest observation tower in the U.S. until the Stratosphere Tower was constructed in Las Vegas in 1996.
• The tower is incredibly heavy, weighing in at 80 million pounds.
• The concrete shaft that serves as the tower’s backbone is 45 feet in diameter and an impressive 605 feet tall.
• The journey to the top is a long one, with 952 steps to conquer.
• The tower is equipped with three elevators that can transport up to 1,950 people per hour.
• The elevators’ speed is a blistering 800 feet per minute, making a journey to the top a mere 43-second trip.
• The structure at the peak, also known as the “top house,” has a height of 76 feet.
• The top house is an architectural marvel, so well-balanced that it only requires a one-horsepower motor to rotate it.
• The outdoor observation deck can accommodate 340 people, offering panoramic views of the city.
• The internal observation deck has a larger capacity, able to host 500 people.
• The tower’s name emerged from an innovative “name the tower” contest, with “Tower of the Americas” resonating with the people and, thus, chosen as the official name.

Things To Do at the Tower of the Americas

Exploring the Grounds of the Tower of the Americas

The grounds surrounding the Tower of the Americas offer a serene escape from bustling city life. Beautifully manicured lawns and gardens with seasonal blooms create a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls or picnics. The grounds also feature stunning water features and the well-maintained HemisFair Park, making it a must-visit area for nature enthusiasts.

Flags Over Texas Observation Deck

The Flags Over Texas Observation Deck offers an intimate view of San Antonio from 750 feet above the ground. This deck wraps around the Tower of the Americas, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city. From here, visitors can witness the breathtaking sight of the city’s skyline and its sprawling cityscape, even as far as the Hill Country on clear days.

4D Theater at the Tower of the Americas

Experience the “Skies Over Texas,” a thrilling 4D ride in the tower’s theater. The 4D ride takes you on a high-flying adventure while narrating the history of Texas through its heavenly skies. It’s a state-of-the-art multi-sensory experience that is both educational and entertaining, suitable for all ages.

Bar 601

Located at the top of the Tower of the Americas, Bar 601 offers a unique rotating view of San Antonio while you enjoy a drink. With a sophisticated ambiance and a wide selection of handcrafted cocktails, wines, and local craft beers, it’s a perfect spot for an unforgettable evening. The bar rotates slowly, providing a full panorama of the city every hour.

Chart House

Dining at the Chart House is an experience unlike any other. This 360-degree revolving restaurant offers a mesmerizing view of the city while you savor delicious seafood, steaks, and chef’s specialties. The Chart House is well-known for its award-winning wine list and impeccable service, further enhancing the dining experience. The restaurant also offers gluten-free menu options, catering to diverse dietary needs. Be sure to reserve a table in advance to secure a spot at this popular dining destination in the city.

FAQs

How tall is the Tower of the Americas?

The Tower of the Americas stands at an impressive height of 750 feet (229 meters). This makes it the tallest observation tower in Texas. It held the title as the tallest observation tower in the U.S. until 1996 when the Stratosphere Tower in Las Vegas was constructed.

What can you see from the Tower of the Americas?

From the Tower of the Americas, visitors can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the San Antonio cityscape, sprawling to the horizon. On clear days, the vista extends to the Texas Hill Country. Landmarks such as the Alamo, River Walk, and San Antonio Missions are also clearly visible, offering a unique perspective of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

What can you do at the Tower of the Americas?

At the Tower of the Americas, you can explore the beautifully manicured grounds, take in panoramic views from the Flags Over Texas Observation Deck, enjoy a thrilling 4D ride in the “Skies Over Texas” theater, unwind with a drink at the rotating Bar 601 and savor a meal at the 360-degree revolving restaurant, Chart House. This combination of history, leisure, and gastronomy ensures a memorable experience for all visitors.

How many stairs does the Tower of the Americas have?

The Tower of the Americas boasts an impressive total of 952 steps. These stairs are primarily used for emergencies and maintenance purposes, with the majority of visitors opting to take the speedy elevators that transport them to the top in a mere 43 seconds. However, for fitness enthusiasts or those looking for a unique challenge, the staircase provides an alternative way to reach the top.