Best Attractions Near Waterloo Pl (Edinburgh)
Planning a trip to Waterloo Pl? Discover the best attractions nearby with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions near Waterloo Pl
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47 attractions
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Tourist attraction4.7★14,870 reviews
Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s iconic historic thoroughfare stretching 1.81 km from the imposing Edinburgh Castle to the regal Palace of Holyroodhouse. This vibrant cobbled street is lined with medieval tenements, atmospheric closes, and a wealth of cultural landmarks, including St Giles’ Cathedral and the Real Mary King’s Close. It offers a captivating journey through Scotland’s royal and civic history, blending architectural grandeur with lively shops, eateries, and storytelling venues.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
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Historical landmark4.5★10,981 reviews
The Real Mary King's Close
Beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile lies The Real Mary King’s Close, a preserved 17th-century street where history comes alive. Walk through narrow, candle-lit closes and hear stories of plague, poverty, and daily life in old Edinburgh. Guided tours take you into the city’s underground world, revealing how people lived, worked, and died in these once-bustling alleyways. It’s a gripping journey into the darker side of Scotland’s capital, perfect for history lovers and those seeking something truly different.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.0★10,717 reviews
Waverley Market
Situated on Waverley Bridge in the heart of Edinburgh, Waverley Market is a bustling shopping centre blending historic charm with contemporary retail. It offers a diverse range of shops, eateries, and services, making it a lively destination for locals and visitors alike. Open daily with extended hours during festive seasons, it provides a dynamic shopping experience just steps from the city’s iconic landmarks.
Daily 9:00–19:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.4★8,406 reviews
St James Quarter
St James Quarter is Edinburgh’s largest retail and leisure district, located in the heart of the city centre. Opened in 2021 on the site of the former St. James Centre, it offers over 80 shops, 40+ restaurants and bars, a boutique Everyman Cinema, and premium hotels including W Edinburgh. This vibrant galleria blends luxury and high street brands with entertainment and dining, making it a dynamic hub for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Mon–Sat 9:00–20:00 · Sun 10:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.5★6,058 reviews
The Edinburgh Dungeon
The Edinburgh Dungeon offers a thrilling, immersive experience exploring Scotland's darkest history through live actors, theatrical sets, special effects, and rides. Located at 31 Market Place, it features interactive shows based on real historical events, including tales of witches, criminals, and ghosts. Visitors enjoy a unique underground journey lasting about 75 minutes, suitable for ages 8 and up, with a mix of scares and humor in a richly themed environment.
Mon–Fri 11:00–16:00 · Sat–Sun 10:30–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Art gallery4.7★4,854 reviews
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
Housed in a stunning Neo-Gothic building in Edinburgh’s New Town, the National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait showcases Scotland’s rich history and culture through an extensive collection of portraits. From historic monarchs and cultural icons to contemporary figures, the gallery offers a captivating journey through Scottish identity. Visitors can also explore photography collections, enjoy family-friendly activities, and relax in the adjoining Café Portrait.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Monument4.7★4,771 reviews
Scott Monument
The Scott Monument is the world’s largest monument dedicated to a writer, commemorating Sir Walter Scott. This striking Victorian Gothic spire rises 200 feet above East Princes Street Gardens, featuring intricate statues of characters from Scott’s novels. Visitors can climb its 287 steps to panoramic viewing platforms offering breathtaking vistas of Edinburgh’s skyline, including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
Daily 10:00–12:30, 13:45–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Pub4.5★4,450 reviews
The World's End
A compact, centuries‑old pub set into Edinburgh’s Royal Mile where a stretch of the city’s medieval Flodden Wall forms part of the fabric; The World's End serves traditional Scottish pub fare, local ales and whiskies in a snug, intimate interior that blends historic stonework, low ceilings and lively music nights — an atmospheric stop for history‑minded drinkers and diners in the Old Town.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Tour operator4.5★1,942 reviews
City of Edinburgh Tours
City of Edinburgh Tours offers captivating daily walking tours from the iconic Old Police Box on Edinburgh's Royal Mile. Specializing in underground ghost and history tours, the company provides an immersive experience through Edinburgh’s haunted vaults and historic Old Town. Guides in full period costume bring to life the city’s dark past with stories of ghosts, murders, and witchcraft, making it a must-visit for history buffs and thrill seekers alike.
Daily 10:00–21:15Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.9★1,782 reviews
The Chocolatarium
Located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Chocolatarium is a unique chocolate micro-factory and interactive museum offering immersive tours where visitors learn about chocolate’s origins, craft their own chocolate bars, and taste over 40 varieties of artisan chocolates. Open daily, it combines education, creativity, and indulgence in a vibrant setting just off the Royal Mile.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Museum of Childhood
Located on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, the Museum of Childhood is the world’s first museum dedicated exclusively to childhood history. It showcases an enchanting collection of toys, games, dolls, clothing, and memorabilia spanning from the 18th century to the present day. Visitors of all ages can explore nostalgic exhibits, interactive play zones, and unique artefacts like the rare Queen Anne doll and the Kindertransport teddy bear.
Daily 10:00–16:30Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Monkey Barrel Comedy
Monkey Barrel Comedy is Edinburgh’s top-rated comedy club located on Blair Street in the Old Town. Known for its intimate, cozy atmosphere and diverse line-ups, it offers nightly shows featuring talented comedians and engaging hosts. The venue combines excellent comedy with a well-priced bar and table service, ensuring a relaxed and entertaining night out for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
The Stand Comedy Club
The Stand Comedy Club in Edinburgh is a renowned live comedy venue known for its intimate basement atmosphere, hosting a mix of seasoned comedians and emerging talent. Located at 5 York Place, it offers a vibrant night out with sharp wit, audience interaction, and a lively bar setting, making it a must-visit for comedy enthusiasts seeking authentic Scottish humor and a cozy, engaging environment.
Daily 10:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
National Monument of Scotland
The National Monument of Scotland, perched atop Edinburgh’s Calton Hill, is an unfinished neoclassical memorial inspired by Athens’ Parthenon. Conceived to honor Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars, construction began in 1826 but halted in 1829 due to funding shortages, leaving only 12 imposing columns standing. Despite its incomplete state, the monument offers dramatic views over Edinburgh and remains a key historic landmark within the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Multrees Walk
Multrees Walk is Edinburgh’s foremost luxury shopping precinct, located in the heart of the city centre. This stylish pedestrian street links St Andrew Square with the St James Quarter and is home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, Max Mara, and other exclusive designer brands. Offering a curated collection of high-end fashion, accessories, and lifestyle goods, Multrees Walk combines impeccable customer service with a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a must-visit for discerning shoppers.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Tron Kirk Market
Located at 122 High Street on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, the Tron Kirk Market is housed in a striking 17th-century former church. This unique indoor market showcases over 20 Scottish artists and designers offering handmade crafts, jewellery, textiles, and art. The building’s rare hammerbeam roof and stained glass windows provide a captivating historic atmosphere, blending Scotland’s cultural heritage with contemporary creative expression.
Daily 10:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
City Art Centre
Located at 2 Market Street in the heart of Edinburgh, the City Art Centre is a leading gallery dedicated to Scottish visual and applied arts. Housed in a striking nine-storey former warehouse, it showcases a nationally recognized collection of Scottish art from the 17th century to the present, alongside a dynamic programme of temporary exhibitions. The centre offers free admission to its permanent collections, with some charges for special exhibitions, and features amenities including a café and gift shop.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Department Of Magic
Step into a world of spells and secrets at the Department Of Magic in Edinburgh, where a themed potions tavern and immersive escape rooms blend wizarding fun with clever puzzles. Hidden behind a mysterious black door at the foot of an iron staircase, this magical venue offers a hands-on cocktail-making experience and two distinct escape adventures: one to defeat the Dark Lord, the other to resurrect him. Perfect for fans of Harry Potter and interactive entertainment, it’s a playful, atmospheric spot ideal for couples, friends, and small groups seeking a memorable night out in the city centre.
Mon 11:00–23:00 · Tue–Sun 10:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
Located in Arch 16 at The Arches on East Market Street, Edinburgh Gin Distillery offers a captivating experience where visitors explore the art of gin making in a stylish, modern setting. The distillery features guided tours revealing the history, botanicals, and distillation process behind their award-winning gins, complemented by tasting sessions and a rooftop bar with stunning city views.
Daily 11:00–19:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Scottish Storytelling Centre
The Scottish Storytelling Centre, located at 43-45 High Street in Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, is the world’s first purpose-built venue dedicated to live storytelling. Housed in a striking modern building alongside the medieval John Knox House, it offers a vibrant programme of theatre, music, exhibitions, workshops, and family events. Visitors can explore Scotland’s rich narrative heritage, enjoy a child-friendly exhibition, relax in the café, and browse a unique bookshop, all within a welcoming and creative atmosphere.
Daily 10:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a world-renowned annual event held on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, showcasing a spectacular display of military music, dance, and precision drill. Running every August, it unites performers from over 48 countries in a vibrant celebration of Scottish heritage and global culture. The Tattoo Office at 1-3 Cockburn Street in Edinburgh serves as the ticketing and information hub for this iconic festival.
Mon–Fri 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
The Fudge House of Edinburgh
Nestled on the historic Royal Mile at 197 Canongate, The Fudge House of Edinburgh is a beloved sweet shop renowned for its rich, buttery fudge crafted with traditional methods. Offering a wide variety of flavors from classic to unique, this charming shop invites visitors to indulge in creamy, melt-in-the-mouth treats in a welcoming, clean setting. It’s a must-visit for fudge lovers exploring Edinburgh’s cultural heart.
Mon–Sat 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Cask
Perched atop Waverley Mall on Princes Street, Cask Smugglers is a lively rooftop cocktail bar known for its panoramic Old Town views, heated private domes, creative cocktails and a compact menu of Peruvian-inspired small plates. A mix of industrial interiors and outdoor terrace seating makes it a flexible spot for sunset drinks, group get-togethers or a cosy night in one of the domes.
Mon–Wed 12:00–1:00 · Thu–Sun 11:00–1:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
John Knox House
The world's first purpose-built centre for live storytelling, the Scottish Storytelling Centre sits at the heart of Edinburgh's Royal Mile. This award-winning venue blends contemporary design with medieval architecture, housing the historic John Knox House (dating to 1470), a 99-seat theatre, library, and vibrant café. Year-round programming features storytelling, theatre, music, dance, and exhibitions celebrating Scotland's rich cultural heritage. The centre welcomes all ages and interests, offering free exhibitions, workshops, family events, and two major annual festivals.
Daily 10:00–18:00Price level $Time to spend 1.5–3.5 hrs
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
Wee Ecosse offers immersive French-language guided walking tours in Edinburgh, revealing the city's rich history, culture, and folklore. Based at Chessel's Court in the Old Town, these tours are led by passionate guides who blend historical facts with captivating stories, making the experience engaging for Francophone visitors. Operating daily from 9 AM to 7 PM, Wee Ecosse provides a unique and personal way to explore Edinburgh’s iconic sites and hidden gems.
Daily 9:00–19:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Steps to Calton Hill
Steps to Calton Hill offer an accessible ascent to one of Edinburgh’s most iconic vantage points, crowned with neoclassical monuments and sweeping views of the city skyline. This volcanic hill is part of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring landmarks such as the National Monument, Nelson Monument, and City Observatory. Open 24/7 with free entry, it’s a tranquil yet culturally rich spot for sightseeing, photography, and seasonal festivals.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–2 hrs
Heart of Scotland Tours
Heart of Scotland Tours offers expertly guided small-group tours departing from Stand ZE, Waterloo Place in Edinburgh. With groups averaging around 12 passengers, these tours blend iconic Scottish landmarks, hidden gems, and authentic cultural experiences. The company is renowned for its knowledgeable driver-guides, personalized service, and immersive itineraries that include castles, scenic vistas, and Highland wildlife, all enjoyed in comfort aboard luxury minibuses.
Daily 7:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 6–8 hrs
Cockburn St
Cockburn Street is a distinctive serpentine street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, linking the historic Royal Mile to Waverley Station. Built in 1856–59 and named after Lord Henry Cockburn, a noted conservationist, the street is renowned for its Scots Baronial architecture, quirky shops, cafes, and lively atmosphere. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and contemporary urban life in the heart of Edinburgh.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
East Princes Street Gardens
East Princes Street Gardens is a vibrant and historic public park in the heart of Edinburgh, nestled between the Old Town and New Town. Covering 8.5 acres, it offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the iconic Scott Monument. Created in the 1820s after draining the Nor Loch, the gardens feature beautifully maintained lawns, floral displays, and numerous statues. It serves as a peaceful urban oasis and a hub for seasonal events like the Christmas Market and outdoor concerts.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Edinburgh City Chambers
Edinburgh City Chambers, located on the historic Royal Mile at 253 High Street, is a grand neo-classical building originally constructed in the 18th century as the Royal Exchange. Today, it serves as the administrative heart of Edinburgh, housing the City Council and hosting civic events and weddings. Its elegant courtyard, adorned with a bronze statue of Alexander the Great, and richly decorated interiors reflect its storied past and architectural grandeur.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
Nestled in a cozy alley off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft offers a unique glimpse into the history and practices of magic, witchcraft, and the occult. Founded by Ash William Mills in 2023, the museum houses around 200 fascinating artifacts including items from Scottish witch trials, Victorian spiritualism, and folk magic traditions. Visitors can also enjoy tarot readings and attend themed events in an intimate, atmospheric setting.
Mon 12:00–18:00 · Tue–Sun 10:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Old Calton Cemetery
Old Calton Burial Ground is a historic cemetery established in 1718 on Calton Hill, Edinburgh. It is renowned for its notable burials, including philosopher David Hume, and striking monuments such as the Political Martyrs' Monument and the American Civil War Memorial. The cemetery offers a peaceful atmosphere with panoramic views of the city and reflects Edinburgh's rich cultural and political history.
Daily 9:00–17:00Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
JK Rowling’s Handprints
Located just off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling are embedded in the flagstone courtyard of the historic City Chambers. These handprints commemorate Rowling receiving the Edinburgh Award in 2008, recognizing her significant cultural impact and connection to the city. The courtyard also honors other notable Edinburgh figures, making it a unique tribute to the city’s celebrated citizens.
Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
Waterloo Pl
Waterloo Place is a notable street in Edinburgh, located at the eastern end of Princes Street. It serves as a grand entrance to the city, spanning the Low Calton ravine via the elegant Regent Bridge. The area blends historic Georgian architecture with urban vitality, offering views of Calton Hill and Edinburgh Castle. Once the site of Calton Prison, Waterloo Place now stands as a key thoroughfare linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Playfair Monument
The Playfair Monument is an elegant Greek Doric memorial located on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, commemorating John Playfair, a key figure of the Scottish Enlightenment and uncle of architect William Henry Playfair. Designed by William Playfair in the 1820s, this polished ashlar monument features a tetrastyle blind colonnade of fluted Greek Doric columns and offers sweeping views of Edinburgh’s skyline. It stands as a testament to Edinburgh’s rich architectural heritage and Enlightenment history.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Edinburgh Underground
Discover the eerie and fascinating Edinburgh Underground Vaults beneath Parliament Square on the Royal Mile. This historic subterranean labyrinth reveals centuries-old vaults once used as workshops, storage, and residences, now shrouded in tales of hardship, crime, and paranormal activity. Guided tours combine chilling ghost stories with rich historical insights, immersing visitors in Edinburgh’s shadowy past and architectural mysteries.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Monument to the Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament Building in Edinburgh is a striking modern landmark opened in 2004, symbolizing Scotland's devolved democracy. Located at the foot of the Royal Mile near the Palace of Holyroodhouse, it offers free access to its public areas including the Main Hall, Debating Chamber, exhibitions, a café, and a shop. Visitors can explore through self-guided visits, 10-minute talks, or guided tours, immersing themselves in the architecture, political history, and art within this iconic civic space.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–2 hrs
Jacob's Ladder
Jacob's Ladder is a steep, historic staircase carved into the volcanic rock of Calton Hill in central Edinburgh. Dating back to at least 1784, this 140-step pathway connects Calton Road with Regent Road, serving as a shortcut between the Old and New Towns. Once a funeral procession route to the Old Calton Burial Ground, it now offers spectacular views of Edinburgh’s skyline, including the Castle and Waverley Station. Recently refurbished with LED lighting, it is a striking and atmospheric urban climb.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The News Steps
The News Steps is a historic stone staircase in Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting St Giles Street near the Royal Mile with Market Street close to Waverley Station. Built in the mid-19th century as part of a newspaper office complex, these 124 winding steps once facilitated the distribution of printed papers. Today, they provide a pedestrian link between the Old and New Towns, offering a tangible connection to Edinburgh’s rich media history and urban fabric.
Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
Edinburgh
The Royal Yacht Britannia, berthed at Ocean Terminal in Leith, Edinburgh, served as the British Royal Family's floating palace for over 40 years. Now a top visitor attraction, it offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life at sea across five decks, featuring the State Apartments, Crew’s Quarters, Engine Room, and the Queen’s favourite Sun Lounge. Visitors enjoy an immersive audio guide, historic exhibitions, and the Royal Deck Tearoom with stunning waterfront views.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–2 hrs
Waverley Steps
Waverley Steps is a prominent, modernized pedestrian access point linking Edinburgh’s iconic Waverley Station with Princes Street. Featuring a blend of historic sensitivity and contemporary design, it offers step-free access via lifts, covered escalators, and stylish stairways beneath a glass canopy, providing shelter and panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline. This vital urban connector combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, enhancing the travel experience in Scotland’s capital.
Time to spend 0.2–1 hr
St Andrew Square
St Andrew Square is a distinguished Georgian garden square in Edinburgh’s New Town, renowned for its elegant neoclassical architecture, the towering Melville Monument, and vibrant urban life. Originally designed by James Craig in the late 18th century, it blends historic grandeur with modern commerce, offering tranquil gardens, upscale shopping, and cultural landmarks in a bustling city centre setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Fleshmarket Cl
Fleshmarket Close is a narrow, atmospheric alley in Edinburgh’s Old Town, historically named after the meat market and slaughterhouse that once operated here. This medieval close links Edinburgh Waverley Station to Cockburn Street and the Royal Mile, steeped in centuries of history including ties to notable residents and plague-era events. Today, it remains a vivid reminder of the city’s past and a popular route for visitors exploring the Old Town’s rich heritage.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Anchor Close
Anchor Close is a historic lane located off Cockburn Street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, near the Royal Mile. It offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s layered past with its narrow, atmospheric passageways and proximity to iconic Scots Baronial architecture. The area is lively, blending historic charm with modern shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks, making it a vibrant spot to explore the city’s unique heritage and urban character.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Hunter Square
Hunter Square, nestled behind the iconic Tron Kirk on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, is a historic urban space shaped by 18th-century city improvements. Formed after the South Bridge construction in the late 1700s, it offers a unique glimpse into Edinburgh’s layered past. The square blends architectural heritage with subtle modern interventions, serving as a tranquil yet lively spot near the bustling city centre.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
St Andrew Square & George St
At the eastern end of George Street in Edinburgh’s New Town, St Andrew Square is a graceful Georgian garden square framed by neoclassical buildings. Dominated by the towering Melville Monument, it blends historic architecture with modern commerce, offering a peaceful green heart amid the city’s financial and cultural life. Once a private enclave for Edinburgh’s elite, its gardens are now open to all, making it a popular spot for relaxation, events, and people‑watching in the heart of the capital.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Advocate's Cl
Advocate's Close is a narrow, steep medieval alley in Edinburgh’s Old Town, linking Market Street to the Royal Mile near St Giles Cathedral. Named after Sir James Stewart, Lord Advocate of Scotland in the late 17th century, it was once a fashionable address for Scottish gentry. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Edinburgh’s layered history with its cobbled steps, historic architecture, and framed views of the Scott Monument.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
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Waterloo Place: historic gateway bridging Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with Georgian elegance and sweeping city views.
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