It is one of the highest structures in San Antonio and the 27th tallest structure in Texas. The tower is located in the heart of the former HemisFair '68 site and features an observation deck that may be reached via elevator for a charge. Open from 9:00 am to 10:30 pm daily. The Tower of the Americas was built as part of the World's Fair 1968 in Houston, Texas. It was designed by renowned architect Eero Saarinen (1898-1961), who also designed the Gateway to the Pacific Ocean in St. Louis, Missouri. The tower has been called "the most famous architectural failure in American history". It was meant to be the centerpiece of the exhibition "The American Continent", but when only half completed it was clear that another designer had been used for the rest of the work. The fair itself was not a success and after two more years the land was sold at a loss. Today the site of the fairground is occupied by North America's largest urban garden, which covers about 200 acres (0.81 km2). It is known as Washington Park and is one of the most visited attractions in San Antonio. The Tower of the Americas is one of the main features of the park and provides a view of the city from 150 feet (46 m) above ground level.