10 Fantastical Towers We Wish We Could VIsit

Tower of Babel
The Books of Babel series, by Josiah Bancroft
This massive structure is more than just any old building—it’s a way of life! Truly, your visit to the Tower is choose-your-own-adventure, offering you more freedom and bigger thrills than any staid all-inclusive package. Pamper yourself in the steam and luxury of The Baths. Test your thespian chops in The Parlor, where everyone is an actor but no one knows how the script will play out. In whichever way you decide to tackle the attractions, be sure to take a spin on one of the many Beer-me-go-Rounds in the basement. You simply must try one. Another pro tip: bring your copy of the Everyman’s Guide to the Tower of Babel for the most up-to-date* information on each of the exotic Ringdoms that lay ahead.

Bone Towers
Bone Universe series, by Fran Wilde
Elegant and elevated, the towers of this high-flying civilization are statement pieces: columns of living, growing bone, jutting into the clouds with dramatic effect and offering endless opportunities for thrill-seekers. The main mode of transport are the winged gliders you’ll see locals strapped to as they flit about. The experience is not for the faint of heart, but the views are magnificent and ever-rising. The only other thing to watch out for—so insignificant we hardly find them worth mentioning—is one of those pesky skymouths, those invisible little scamps you won’t see until they’re about to consume you whole. But don’t let that mar an otherwise wonderful time in the clouds!

Barad-dur
The Lord of the Rings, by J.R.R. Tolkien
It may not be within walking distance of many of Middle-earth’s top attractions, but you’re still guaranteed to have a time at Barad-dur. More visually impressive than its sister tower, Orthanc, the ages-old Barad-dur has undergone a recent, total renovation, its impressive architecture supported by the latest and greatest in dark magic. This secluded gem will shield you from the hustle and bustle of Middle-earth life, while giving you exclusive access to the fiery geologic wonders of Mount Doom, typically inaccessible to tourists. One final note to our esteemed visitors: if you’ve recently found a ring—gold band, entirely unremarkable—we ask that you return it to the front desk immediately.

The Dark Tower
The Dark Tower series, by Stephen King
Have you ever wanted to feel like you’re at the center of it all? Stave off that impending FOMO by stopping in for a nosh and a nibble at the Dark Tower. This imposing edifice is the retreat for anyone who feels like a little bit of the magic has gone out of their life. Because here at the Dark Tower? The possibilities are endless. Though the surrounding areas have fallen on hard times, that should in no way diminish your visit. In fact, you might find this the most opportune moment for a visit to this worlds-wide hub. And if you’ve been before, why not come back? Everyone returns eventually anyway.

Tower of Art
Discworld series, by Terry Pratchett
‘ullo and welcome to the Tower of Art, the oldest and most commentable standing structure on the Disc, where every day has the potential for a new, exciting adventure. Stretch your legs climbing the tower’s 8,888 steps, then expand your mind with scenic views* of Unseen University, bustling Ankh-Morpork, and the, well, whatever it is that composes the River Ankh. For entertainment, look no further than the vibrant and experimental academic community of Unseen U’s wizards, who live each day as if it very well could be your last.

Iskari Squid Tower
The Ruin of Angels, by Max Gladstone
When you visit the teeming, on-the-rise city of Agdel Lex, you’re essentially getting two vacations for the price of one! Well-recovered from the God Wars, Agdel Lex is a fascinating, constantly evolving Iskari hub that, conveniently, sits atop the former city Alikand. While first-time visitors will certainly want to visit the outlying desert areas, where you can see relics of former deities up, close, and personal, the main attraction in Agdel Lex is the squid-like tower at its center, home to the Iskari Rectification Authority and composed of the body of the Iskari squid god. You can’t possibly get a more intimate (or vascular) cultural experience.

Tower of Ghenjei
The Wheel of Time series, by Robert Jordan
A cultural crossroads with an air of mystery about it, the Tower of Ghenjei is a must-do for any traveler interested in getting out of their comfort zone—and into the world of the Finn. Perched along the River Arinelle, the tower is a hidden gem, even to the locals who live nearby. It boasts no doors or windows, but a little persistence (and a bronze knife) will earn you a reward unlike any other. Whether nake or fox, an adventure awaits you among the Aelfin or Elfinn peoples; in fact, your trip may be so intoxicating, it will be excruciatingly hard to leave.

Ivory Tower
The Neverending Story, by Michael Ende
Far more than just a simple, glimmering structure, the Ivory Tower is the hub of life in glorious Fantastica. Manicured like Versailles, this dazzling tower is home to a hive of a capital city, its climbing landscape alive with waterfalls and fountains, gardens and winding paths. The sight of the Ivory Tower’s gleaming dome, set against the lusciousness of its levels, awes and inspires, making a child out of any visitor. That’s the idea anyway, and why the residents of this shimmering city adore their ruler, the Childlike Empress, who seems to absolutely thrive on hearing from tourists to her fair land.

Tower of Joy
A Song of Ice and Fire series, by George R.R. Martin
Perhaps the most-talked-about entry on our list of must-climb destinations, the Tower of Joy boasts sweeping vistas of Dorne’s Red Mountains. Travelers interested in cultural experiences will find to plenty to discuss amongst themselves—chiefly the tower’s complex and fascinating history. There’s been more born here than just Westerosi urban legend, we’ll have you know! We encourage you to book your trip sooner rather than later, as we hear the Winds of Winter will be blowing in any day now. Swear.

Perdido Street Station
Perdido Street Station, by China Miéville
The bustling hub of Perdido Street Station is a must-visit during your next trip to the teeming city of New Crobuzon—though you likely wouldn’t be able to help it anyway, seeing as every train passes through it eventually. Stop off for a visit at Hell’s Embassy, then petition for an audience with The Weaver and enjoy the latest bit of free-form verse like only a transdimensional spider god can recite it (just make sure to bring your scissors!). Climb the steps of The Spire to enjoy scenic views of the Gross Tar River (don’t worry, it’s always that color…and consistency), spy cactus men headed in and out of the Glasshouse, and take in the majesty of The Ribs (and try to guess what massive monster fell and left them there, oh so long ago). And no trip would be complete without a visit to our local entomology lab—the price of admission is only your dreams. Note: if you should become waylaid by the Mayor’s militiamen during your stopover at The Spire, we’d advise answering their questions.