Shanghai Tower

Proper planning turns a visit to Shanghai Tower from a quick stop into a true highlight. The observation decks are famous for panoramic views, but ticket lines and weekend crowds can challenge patience. Thankfully, advance online booking is simple and transportation around Lujiazui district is efficient. Elevators whisk guests to the top in under a minute, but low clouds or fog may hide the skyline, so timing and flexibility matter. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome, with wide paths and elevators throughout.

• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings or late afternoons; fall and spring offer clear skies.
• How to get there: Lujiazui Station (Metro Line 2) sits a short walk away; taxis and rideshares stop at the main entrance.
• Accessibility: Wide paths and ample elevators make the tower suitable for families, seniors, and those using wheelchairs.
• Average visit duration: Plan on 2–3 hours to explore exhibits, shops, and city views.

Shanghai Tower may be a heavyweight champion of the skyline, but inside, surprises await on nearly every floor. The world’s fastest double-decker elevators shoot visitors up to the observation deck—literally a breathtaking ride. Interactive displays, a glass-floored section, and a rare peek at city history create much more than just a photo op.

• Observation Deck (Level 118): Floor-to-ceiling glass provides 360-degree views, including a dizzying sight straight down to the Pudong lights. On clear days, the Yangtze River curls through the city like molten silver.
• Sky Lobbies and Art Spaces: Find carefully curated art installations and pop-up exhibits. Local artists often showcase works inspired by Shanghai's rapid growth.
• Double Spiral Atrium: Unique architecture combines soft light and grand curves—a good spot for marveling and people-watching.
• Cloud Top Café: Sip tea or coffee with the city glittering below. Quiet in the late morning, lively at sunset.
• Hidden Insights: Displays on wind resistance, energy efficiency, and the tower’s construction process offer bits of science and history not always mentioned in the guidebooks.
• Photo-Worthy Spots: Sunset illuminates The Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, and distant old neighborhoods. The glass floor panel thrills daring photographers.