If you’re the type of traveler who plans an entire trip around a good view, then you’re likely familiar with observation decks. There is something magical about seeing a city from a bird’s-eye view – the thrill of looking down at the world and realizing how small you really are.
And while you’re perched over the city, it’s impossible not to acknowledge the magnificence of the man-made structure you’re standing on. Observation decks aren’t just a scenic stop on a big city itinerary; they’re a testament to human achievement.
Whether staring down at city lights or simply admiring the sky-high building shooting into the air, here are six of the world’s highest observation decks:
6. Lotte World Tower, Seoul (1594 feet)
Standing tall above the rest of the high-rises in Seoul, Lotte World Tower is literally heights above its neighbors. The tower stands 1594 feet tall, with 123 stories to its name.
It’s the pride and joy of South Korean architecture, with a modern yet traditional Korean style. The observation deck, called ‘Seoul Sky,’ sits on the 118th floor, overlooking stunning views of the Han River and the extensive urban landscape. The deck has indoor and outdoor areas, a glass-floored section, and even a scaffolding-made sky bridge for the adrenaline-feuled travelers!
Even on a cloudy day, visiting this observation deck is a surreal experience that will make you feel like you’ve entered the era of The Jetsons.
5. Canton Tower, Guangzhou (1601 feet)
Canton Tower rises 1601 feet above the Pearl River in Guangzhou. Its distinctive twisted shape is recognizable among architects and skyscraper fans worldwide. It’s made using a steel and glass lattice that spirals dramatically into the sky.
But the real show-stopper is the observation deck. Located on the 108th floor, you can gaze across panoramic views of the city, river, and even as far as the green hills surrounding it.
What makes it really unique is the Bubble Tram on the rooftop, a tram that takes visitors on a gentle rotation around the top of the tower. Oh, and it hosts a light show every evening.
4. Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur (1673 feet)
Let’s all give the Merdeka 118 building in Kuala Lumpur a very warm welcome to the scene. After all, it was only opened to the public in 2024.
It’s the latest superstar of skyscrapers, reaching an impressive 1673 feet above the skyline. It holds the title as the second tallest building in the world (circa 2024), with a shimmering glass facade with typical Malay architectural details.
Visitors can ascend to the 115th-floor observation deck, which offers exceptional city views. From the top, it’s possible to see the entire Malaysian capital from above and admire the iconic Petronas Towers nearby.
The deck has a cafe with comfy seating, so you can grab a coffee and sip it above the clouds on a misty morning.
3. Burj Khalifa, Dubai (1821 feet)
The Burj Khalifa needs no introduction. It’s the tallest building in the world and has long been on the bucket list of many skyscraper fans. And for good reason. At 1821 feet tall, it’s an icon of modern architecture, rising into the sky like an abstract mountain inspired by Arabic design.
It’s quite a sight from the ground – especially when it plays a part in the theatrical dancing fountain show outside the Dubai Mall. But to experience the real magic, you’ll have to hop in a super fast elevator and zoom 148 stories into the sky to the observation deck.
From the top, you’ll get a taste of the unmatched views of Dubai’s forever-evolving skyline. There is a lounge area with indoor and outdoor terraces – and it’s hardly busy.
2. Ping An Finance Center, Shenzhen (1844 feet)
The Ping An Finance Center is in the center of Shenzhen’s business district, towering 1844 feet above one of China’s most exciting cities. The building is mostly occupied by offices, shops, and a hotel, but it also has space for an observation deck on the 116th floor.
To access the deck, you’ll have to ride in the fastest elevator in China, and just as well, because it would take hours any other way. The observation deck is called ‘Free Sky 116’ and is the best place in the city to experience panoramic views with a side of altitude sickness. They even have a VR ride experience at the top of the building.
It’s a relatively new building, with a sleek, modern design featuring a lot of metal and glass. It’s a bold display of Shenzhen’s fast-paced growth and modern architecture.
1. Shanghai Tower (1844 feet)
Topping off the list, the highest observation deck in the world can be found on the 118th floor of the iconic Shanghai Tower. The tower is an architectural marvel with a twist—literally. It has an eye-catching spiral design that curves its way into the sky. But there is a good reason for the twist. It’s a sustainable technique to reduce the wind load and help with energy use.
The observation deck is just as impressive. It offers 360-degree views of Shanghai’s endless skyline across the winding Hauangpu River and across to the distant city suburbs. The deck has indoor and outdoor viewing sections, which make it possible to take in the views come rain or shine.
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