Tower of History

The famous Tower of History invites you to see the world from a bird's-eye view. Standing 64 meters tall, this impressive structure is an architectural landmark in the Sault Ste. Marie area. Built in the late 1960s in the Modernist style, it has since become one of the most recognizable attractions preserved by Canada and its border regions.

The tower offers visitors a unique chance to witness a breathtaking panorama: from here, you can see the St. Marys River, the vast Lake Superior, and the labyrinth of the famous locks. It's more than just an observation deck; it's a true "window into history," showcasing the scale of engineering and the natural beauty of the rapids that were once central to the lives of indigenous peoples and early explorers.

Although currently closed temporarily, it remains a key stop for any traveler interested in the history of the Great Lakes. The tower boasts high ratings from tourists thanks to its incredible views and Brutalist charm that makes it stand out against the city skyline.

For the most up-to-date information before your visit, you can use the following contact details:

The main draw for visitors is undoubtedly the climb to the observation deck. Once at the top, you can enjoy a full 360-degree view. On a clear day, your camera lens can capture not only the picturesque rapids and bridges connecting the two countries but also the massive cargo ships passing through the lock system.

Inside the tower, you'll find exhibits dedicated to the region's development. You can learn how a tiny settlement transformed into one of North America's most important transportation hubs. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy studying the building itself: its stark concrete forms are a classic example of mid-century Modernism.

After coming down, it's worth taking a stroll around the grounds. It's a great spot for a small picnic against the industrial backdrop or for continuing your tour to nearby engineering monuments. Combining a visit to the tower with watching the locks in action will give you the most complete sense of this unique place's spirit.

Reaching this iconic viewpoint is easy. The Tower of History is located at 326 E Portage Ave. If you are traveling by car, head east from the city center along Portage Avenue. There is convenient visitor parking available on-site.

For those who prefer public transport, local buses running along the main street stop just a couple of minutes' walk from the tower. If you are already visiting the famous locks, the walk to the tower takes only 15–20 minutes (about 1–2 km) and makes for a pleasant addition to your route.

Tourists arriving from Ontario will need to cross the border via the International Bridge and then follow signs to the historic center. Taxis or rideshare services are also available; a ride from the nearest airport takes approximately 20–30 minutes.

Built in 1968, this concrete structure became a striking example of Modernist architecture with Brutalist elements. However, the history of the site it overlooks goes back centuries. The indigenous Ojibwe people called this land "Bawating," meaning "Place of the Rapids." It was a vital fishing center and a strategic hub for tribes who gathered here for generations.

The European chapter began in the 17th century. In 1623, the region was explored by Frenchman Étienne Brûlé, and forty-five years later, Jesuit Jacques Marquette founded a mission here, naming the settlement Sault Sainte Marie. The city quickly grew into a key fur trading outpost, where the North West Company and the famous Hudson's Bay Company vied for influence.

The tower was conceived as a symbol of continuity between eras—from the days of brave voyageurs and fishers to the modern industrial and transport hub. Today, it serves as a reminder of how the geography of the St. Marys River's turbulent rapids shaped the fate of the entire region at the junction of the Great Lakes.

A standard visit to the Tower of History typically takes 1–2 hours. This is enough time to comfortably head up to the observation deck, take some impressive panoramic photos, and check out the information boards about the region's past.

If you plan to combine your visit with a leisurely walk along the waterfront or a detailed study of the building's architecture, you should set aside about 3 hours. This will allow you to fully soak in the atmosphere and watch the ships moving along the St. Marys River.

Please note that the current status of the Tower of History is closed temporarily (CLOSED_TEMPORARILY). Traditional operating hours may vary depending on the season and ongoing restoration work.

We strongly recommend checking the current schedule and availability on the official website or by phone before planning your trip to ensure your visit is as smooth as possible.

Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this border region and discover many interesting monuments and historic locations. A walk along the shoreline will reveal the industrial and cultural heritage of both countries.