This is the world’s longest outdoor escalator: 2,600 feet long, and it hides a trap behind its grand views

The Washington, D.C. Metro system’s Wheaton Station exit in may seem like the longest escalator in the world with its nearly three minute ride to cover a distance of 230 feet rising 115 feet. However, in reality, there is another one that is far longer: an outdoor escalator system that is 2,600 feet long located in Hong Kong, China.

This system is made up of 16 escalators and was designed to help people navigate a steep central business district. According to Hong Kong’s Transport Department, it handled around 99,000 daily trips by the end of January 2024.

It opened in 1993 at a cost of roughly 29 million dollars. The mechanism begins on Queen’s Road Central, connects to the Central Market Flyover, passes through Central, and continues up to Conduit Road, crossing more than a dozen streets along the way.

A maximum journey of 30 minutes

Vlogger Collin Abroadcasting decided to test the escalators in a video and share his impressions. “Hey, we’re all here in Hong Kong, and right now we’re going to this very unique style of public transportation. And what I mean by that is an escalator ride that lasts for like 20 and 30 minutes,” he said.

During the journey, he described the experience as “really fun” and highlighted the views, noting that they offer a unique perspective of Hong Kong.

He also pointed out that, despite its reputation as the longest escalator in the world, the system is actually a massive elevated walkway rather than a single continuous escalator. He then revealed a major drawback.

The main downside is that the escalators only go up, not down. As a result, he warns that if you decide to go up, you should be prepared to walk on the way back. “And it is quite a long way. But I think you’ll get down faster than you’ll get up,” he explained.

As he rode up the escalators, he passed shops and restaurants on both sides. Once he reached the top, Collin noted that he would now have to walk about 25 minutes to reach the tram to Victoria Peak, a must-see destination known for its spectacular views of Hong Kong.

This remarkable and one-of-a-kind structure has also appeared in several films, including those by Wong Kar-wai in 1994, according to Express.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.