1.Willis Tower, Chicago, IL
Formerly known as the Sears Tower, tourists have been ascending to the top of this skyscraper for decades. The last time I visited the Willis Tower, it was shortly after ‘The Ledge’ had opened. This is a glass enclosed balcony added on to the Skydeck to give visitors a thrill along with an amazing view. What can I say? It was amazing. I love cityscapes and Chicago’s is one of the best in the world. The new Ledge addition added to the experience as it gave me the ability to view the city from many different angles.
2. Tour Saint-Jacques, Paris France
This may be blasphemous to some, but when I spent a month in Paris two years ago, I indulged my inner tourist and went to the top of both the Eiffel Tower and Saint-Jacques Tower. As you can see, it is Saint Jacques Tower that made the list. A group of tourists and I followed a tour guide up a winding staircase to the top of the tower. The view was absolutely stunning. I was able to see and photograph some of Paris’ most famous landmarks including, the aforementioned Eiffel Tower, the Rue De Rivoli, and the Bourse Du Commerce.
3. Top of The Mark, San Francisco, CA
I make it to San Francisco at least once a year, and I never miss a chance to enjoy cocktails and appetizers at the top of The Mark. This restaurant and lounge sit at the top of the Mark Hopkins on Knob Hill. The food is wonderful, the drinks are amazing, but the selling point is the amazing panoramic view of San Francisco. This includes Chinatown, North Beach, and the financial district.
4. Elements Restaurant, Scottsdale, AZ
Elements restaurant is part of the Sanctuary Resort on Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale, AZ. The food is fresh, light, and absolutely amazing. To be honest, however, the Chef (Food Network regular, Beau Macmillen) could have served beans and weenies, and I would have been happy. The view truly is that amazing. People visit resorts like Sanctuary for healing and restoration. It’s no wonder. I couldn’t help but feel renewed as I looked out at Mountains, palm trees, and the famous Southwestern sunset.
5. Gateway Arch, St. Louis, MO
The Gateway Arch stands on the Mississippi river front in downtown St. Louis, and it can be seen from miles away. I visited the Arch many years ago on a cross country trip with some friends. Only two of us were willing to brave the claustrophobic ride to the top. I’m glad we did. The view facing west from the observation deck is absolutely stunning, especially in the evening. Downtown St. Louis is full of architectural wonders, and they can all be seen from the Arch. Looking east gave us a great view across the river to the Gateway Geyser.
6. Dasheene, St. Lucia, West Indies
I have wanted to write about Dasheene at Ladera for years. It wasn’t until recently, however that I believed I was developed enough as a writer to give adequately describe this experience. . The view from Dasheene is enchanting. Viewing the sea between the pitons was nothing short of amazing.
7. Corinthia Hotel, London, England
Imagine looking out of your hotel window and seeing a breathtaking view of the London Eye and all that surrounds it. I had the pleasure of enjoying this view on a recent trip to London. Interestingly enough, I had planned to stay at a much more modest hotel, but decided to splurge at the last minute. I am certainly glad that I did so.
8. Galata Tower, Istanbul, Turkey
If you have never been to Istanbul, it is definitely something to add to your bucket list. It’s a bustling city full of amazing architecture. One of the best ways to take in the city is from the top of the Galata Tower. I went on a clear day, and the 360-degree view of the city was absolutely stunning. The city and the phosphors are an amazing site from that vantage point. I also made it a point to return one evening so I could take in the same view, only lit up.
9. Hotel Edelweiss, Murren, Switzerland
I grew up in Denver, so mountain ranges aren’t exactly new to me. When I stayed at the Edelweiss, I was prepared to be a bit underwhelmed. When I arrived, however, I was shocked in a good way. The hillside location of the hotel lends itself to spectacular views of mountains and valleys. I will definitely return.
10. Vertigo, Bangkok, Thailand
If I could choose only one cityscape ever to see again, it would be Bangkok, Thailand, and I would take in that view from the Vertigo restaurant on the 61st floor of the Banyan hotel. There is nothing like viewing Bangkok from high above the rest of the city while dining on a converted helipad. It truly gives you a beautiful view of an amazing metropolis.
