Prospect Point Observation Tower facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Prospect Point Observation Tower |
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The observation tower in 2013
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General information | |
Architectural style | Modernist |
Town or city | Niagara Falls, New York |
Country | United States of America |
Coordinates | 43°05′11″N 79°04′06″W / 43.086442°N 79.068389°W |
Construction started | 1958 |
Completed | 1961 |
Renovated | 2001 |
Cost | US$1,250,000 |
Height | 282 feet (86 m) |
Technical details | |
Lifts/elevators | 4 |
The Prospect Point Observation Tower is a tall structure in Niagara Falls, New York, United States. It stands right next to the amazing American Falls, offering incredible views of the waterfalls. It's also known as the Niagara Falls Observation Tower.
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About the Observation Tower
This tower is a popular spot for visitors to get a fantastic look at the famous Niagara Falls. It's built from strong materials like aluminum, glass, and steel. The tower stands 282 feet (86 m) tall. Its base is located deep down in the gorge, which is the valley carved by the river.
Visitors enter the tower from the ground level of Niagara Falls State Park. From the top, you can see the powerful waterfalls and the beautiful surrounding area.
A Look Back: The Tower's History
The area where the tower now stands, known as Prospect Point, used to be an industrial zone. From the 1870s to the 1940s, it was a busy place with factories and mills.
The observation tower was first built in 1961. Many years later, between 2001 and 2003, it got a big upgrade. These improvements made the tower even better for visitors.
Modern Upgrades
During the renovation, the tower received several cool updates. These included a new observation deck made of strong concrete. A shiny stainless steel railing system was added for safety and looks. The tower also got faster elevators, new restrooms, and a gift shop where you can find souvenirs.
What You'll See: Tower Features
The Prospect Point Observation Tower is a very popular attraction. About eight million people visit it every year! This shows how many people want to see the incredible views it offers.
From the base of the tower, you can also catch the famous Maid of the Mist boat tour. These boats take visitors right into the mist of the falls, giving an up-close experience.