Shanghai Tower: Observation Deck Skip-the-Line Ticket & Meal

Getting a glimpse of Shanghai’s skyline from the top of the Shanghai Tower is a must-do for many travelers, and booking a tour that skips the long lines while offering a meal high above the city sounds like a winning combo. This particular experience, offered by cowbunny, promises quick access to China’s tallest building, a breathtaking 118th-floor observation deck, and a dining experience on the 119th floor.

It’s a tempting package, especially for those who want to see Shanghai from above without wasting time waiting in line.

We like that this experience allows you to avoid the peak-season crowds with a skip-the-line ticket, and that you get an actual meal with your visit — not just the usual sightseeing. On the downside, some reviews mention the potential for lines during weekends and advise arriving early to secure the best views, which is something to keep in mind.

This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a smooth, scenic experience combined with good, accessible food options in a top-tier setting.

Who will appreciate this tour? If you’re a traveler looking for a convenient way to reach Shanghai’s highest viewpoint with a meal included, and you’re okay with possibly waiting a little during busy times, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a stress-free visit with guaranteed fast access and a memorable dining experience.

Key Points

• Fast-track access: Skip the long lines and reach the observation deck quickly via express elevators.
• High-altitude dining: Enjoy a meal on the 119th floor, with views that are hard to match elsewhere in Shanghai.
• Spectacular views: Take in 360-degree scenery from the tallest building in China, the second tallest worldwide.
• Flexible food options: Choose between afternoon tea, dinner, or weekend lunch, all with quality offerings.
• Family-friendly: Kids under 3 are free, children over 3 and under 140 centimeters need a child ticket, and taller kids require an adult ticket.
• Convenience: Everything is included — admission, meals, and skip-the-line privileges — making for a seamless experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Shanghai Tower Experience

The Building and Its Significance

The Shanghai Tower rises majestically over the Pudong skyline, standing as China’s tallest building and the second tallest in the world. Its architectural design is striking, with twisting, modern lines that symbolize the city’s rapid growth. Visiting the tower isn’t just about the height; it’s about seeing Shanghai’s sprawling, vibrant cityscape from 118 floors up.

This experience allows you to ascend at a blistering speed of 65 kilometers per hour in the world’s fastest elevator, a feat that’s almost as exciting as the views themselves. We loved the way the elevator ride itself feels like a mini thrill, zooming upward in seconds, giving you a fleeting glimpse of the city below.

Skip-the-Line Advantage

Waiting in line can be the least glamorous part of sightseeing, especially during weekends or peak seasons. With this ticket, you skip the regular wait and can head straight to the elevator, saving about an hour during busy times. On weekends, you’re advised to arrive early and go to the 119th floor to get a number first — a good tip to avoid the queues and secure a better seat with a view.

The Observation Deck

Reaching the 118th floor, you step into a space designed for awe — panoramic windows offering 360-degree vistas of Shanghai. The views are truly spectacular, capturing the city’s modern skyscrapers, the Huangpu River, and beyond. We’ve heard from travelers that the sightline is arguably the best in town, especially if you’re visiting during good weather.

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Dining at New Heights

The highlight for many is the meal on the 119th floor, where you can enjoy a variety of options, including afternoon tea, dinner, or weekend lunch. The menu features items like Garden Seafood Salad, Cream of Mushroom Soup, and choices between Salmon or Beef — a surprisingly refined menu for a tower restaurant. For dessert, Chocolate Mousse Cake is available, and drinks include soft drinks and red wine.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early to ensure they get a good seat with great views. The experience is designed to be relaxing, so take your time savoring the meal and absorbing the scenery.

The Value of the Experience

At $119 per person, the experience isn’t cheap, but it offers notable value. The fast-track access, combined with a meal at such a high altitude, makes it an attractive option for those who wish to avoid the hassle of lines and enjoy a seamless visit. We believe the ticket price is justified for the convenience and the opportunity to experience Shanghai from a truly spectacular vantage point without the crowds.

What Reviews Say About the Tour

While the overall rating is 3.6 out of 5 based on 35 reviews, it’s important to weigh both positive and negative feedback. Many visitors appreciated the efficiency of skip-the-line access and the quality of the meal, noting that arriving early during weekends is essential to secure the best views and avoid waiting in lines.

Some reviews mention that during busy times, there might still be a wait, but overall, the experience is smooth if you plan ahead. The views are consistently praised, with travelers describing the observation deck as “breathtaking” and the overall experience as “worth the price” for those wanting a stress-free visit.

Authentic Perspectives

• “The elevator ride itself is fun and fast, and the views are simply stunning.”
• “Getting to skip the long lines during a busy weekend made the whole experience so much more enjoyable.”
• “The meal on the 119th floor was surprisingly good, and it’s a rare chance to eat while looking out over Shanghai.”
• “Arriving early during weekends really helps, as lines can get long later in the day.”

In-Depth Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins at the Shanghai Tower’s main entrance on 501 Yincheng Middle Rd, Lujiazui, Pudong. It’s easily accessible from many central parts of Shanghai, and the meeting point is straightforward. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can join in the experience.

The Elevators and Observation Deck

Once inside, you’ll head straight to the express elevator, which whisks you up to the 118th floor in about 55 seconds. This ride is a highlight, giving travelers a sense of the tower’s engineering prowess. The observation deck itself is spacious, with glass walls offering unobstructed views that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Meal Options and Timing

Depending on your preferred time slot, the experience includes:

• Afternoon tea (13:00 – 15:00)
• Weekend lunch (11:00 – 13:00)
• Dinner (18:00 – 19:00)

All meals feature a set menu, including salads, soups, mains, and desserts, with drinks like soft drinks and red wine. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to guarantee a good seat with an optimal view.

During the Meal

Expect a relaxed atmosphere with an exceptional view, perfect for couples, families, or even friends sharing a special moment. You may find the experience a little more subdued compared to the bustling city below but appreciate the high-quality food and atmosphere.

Additional Tips

• Arrive early — especially during busy weekends to secure a viewing spot and avoid lines.
• Consider going to the 119th floor first to get a number, which helps in managing queues.
• Kids under 3 are free, but children over 3 and under 140 cm need a child ticket; taller children require adult tickets.
• Bring your passport for entry, as it’s required at the gate.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour offers a unique blend of quick access, gourmet dining, and spectacular views, making it ideal for travelers who want to avoid lines and enjoy a memorable high-altitude meal. It’s especially suited for those who value convenience and comfort, as well as a chance to see Shanghai from a vantage point that few other experiences can match.

If you’re traveling with family, the inclusive tickets and flexible meal times make it easy to plan around your day. It’s also a good pick for couples or small groups wanting a special, hassle-free sightseeing moment. While it may not be the perfect choice for budget travelers or those seeking a more casual experience, it delivers on the promise of impressive scenery and a touch of luxury.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, kids under 3 years old are free, but those over 3 and under 140 cm need a child ticket. Children taller than 140 cm require an adult ticket. The experience is family-friendly, especially with the panoramic views and meal options.

How long does the experience last?
The duration depends on your meal timing and wait times, but typically it includes the elevator ride, time on the observation deck, and enjoying your meal — expect around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Can I visit during peak season?
Yes, but during weekends or busy periods, expect some queues, especially for the 119th floor meal reservation. Arriving early and going straight to the 119th floor to get a number can help.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket covers skip-the-line access to the 118th-floor observation deck, your selected meal (afternoon tea, lunch, or dinner), and the use of express elevators to reduce wait times.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Do I need to reserve my meal time?
Yes, meal times are scheduled, so it’s advised to reserve your preferred slot when booking, especially during weekends, to ensure availability.

To sum it up, this Shanghai Tower observation deck experience with skip-the-line tickets and a meal offers incredible value for travelers looking for a stress-free, high-level view of Shanghai combined with excellent food. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their sightseeing with minimal hassle, and for anyone eager to take in a cityscape that’s truly breathtaking from above.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby