Nautilus Tower
INCLUSIVE ADVENTURE WITH A VIEW
It is the centerpiece of the Owl Creek Landing adventure park in Virginia Beach on the U.S. East Coast: Rising from the forest, the Nautilus Tower reaches 20 meters above the ground, offering panoramic views over the treetops. The way down is thrilling, via the longest stainless-steel slide in the United States to date. KristallTurm® was responsible for constructing the impressive steel framework of the tower.
Together with the U.S. – based Outdoor Ventures Group, KristallTurm® brought the first Nautilus Tower from paper to reality – an octagonal steel observation tower reaching heights of up to 37 meters (121 ft). A gently spiraling ramp winds upward through several levels, giving the tower its distinctive shape. With a width of over two meters and a slight incline, the ramp is easily accessible and can be used comfortably by wheelchair users and visitors with strollers. Alternatively, two staircases provide additional routes to the top. Once at the summit, visitors are rewarded with a stunning 360° panoramic view over the surrounding landscape.
Additional features such as slides, canopy walks, lighting, and sound systems create further opportunities for use and additional sources of revenue. With interactive stations or educational information points, the tower can be designed to offer a thematic and engaging experience. The upper level, in turn, serves as a spectacular venue for corporate and team-building events, yoga sessions, private celebrations, and other special occasions.
The observation tower can be operated year-round. It is the perfect addition to nature-based adventure areas and existing recreational attractions such as zoos, museums, theme parks, or ski resorts. It also works equally well as a stand-alone attraction in parks or as a destination set amidst natural surroundings.
NAUTILUS TOWER AT A GLANCE
A LANDMARK FOR AN ENTIRE REGION
At a height of 37 meters, the Nautilus Tower can be seen from afar.
ROBUST CONSTRUCTION
Made of hot-dip galvanized steel with low maintenance requirements, designed for high wind loads.
LOW SPACE REQUIREMENTS
Compact design with little or no interference with the ground.
ACCESSIBILITY
An attraction for everyone – from toddlers in strollers to teenagers, seniors, and visitors in wheelchairs.
NAUTILUS TOWER IN VIRGINIA BEACH
The first Nautilus Tower has been the main attraction of the Owl Creek Landing Park in Virginia Beach since spring 2025. The 20-meter-high steel structure was built by KristallTurm® in its own workshop in Lenggries, Germany. Along the ramp, visitors cover about 540 meters to reach the top level, where they can enjoy an impressive view over the treetops and the Atlantic coastline beyond.
The longest stainless-steel slide in the United States runs through the center of the tower, taking visitors back down to the ground. The observation tower is complemented by an extensive canopy walkway, educational forest trails, a treehouse village for children, and various food and beverage options.
| Key Facts | |
|---|---|
| Location | Virginia Beach, VA, US |
| Opening | Spring 2025 |
| Size | 20 meters high, 25 meters wide, six levels |
| Add-Ons | Stainless Steel Slide in the Center |
