An icon of the Seattle skyline, the Space Needle was originally erected in 1962 for that year’s World’s Fair. Could it have been the inspiration for the Oriental Pearl Tower? Although smaller at 605 feet in total height, it boasts a 520-foot-high observation deck and was once the tallest structure west of the Mississippi River.

The design for the tower was the combination of the visions of two architects: Edward E. Carlson, who envisioned a giant balloon tethered to the ground, and John Graham, Jr, who was imagining a flying saucer.

Liked this? Click the Like button above. And click the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING

Now take a look at the world's most beautiful buildings, and how best to see them

World-famous landmarks that were actually inspired by older buildings