No matter from which direction you approach San Antonio, you'll see the Tower of the Americas looming over the skyline. This symbol of the 1968 World HemisFair remains a landmark for downtown San Antonio. Visitors view the city from the observation deck at 579 feet. Close to three decades after its construction, this is still one of the tallest free-standing structures in the Western hemisphere—87 feet taller than the Seattle Space Needle and 67 feet higher than the Washington Monument.

Since its construction, the Tower and its grounds have undergone many changes. In April 1988, HemisFair Park was rededicated after a $12 million renovation of the grounds. In March 1990, a $1.2 million restoration was completed on the Tower. Today the two of you can enjoy a one-minute elevator ride traveling seven miles per hour to the observation deck, where high-powered telescopes provide a bird's-eye view of the city's sights. Eight panoramic photo panels help locate major attractions. Both enclosed and open-air observation decks are open, and a night visit is especially breathtaking. San Antonio's most romantic scenic view can also be enjoyed from the tower's revolving restaurant.

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