Witch's Hat Water Tower observation deck opens Friday, enchants spectators

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Friday was the one night of the year that you can see the view of the Twin Cities from inside a massive witch’s hat in Minneapolis and people lined up to take advantage. 

The Witch’s Hat Water Tower was open as the Prospect Park Neighborhood Association held its annual Pratt Ice Cream Social Fundraiser. Along with a gorgeous view of the city, the event also offered ice cream, food, music and other festivities.

The Witch’s Hat Tower's observation deck provides a 360-degree view of the Twin Cities from 110-feet in the air. It's 120 stairs to the top to see the panoramic view. 

For some Minnesotans, they lined up to get inside the tower during the four hours in which it was open Friday. 

The tower has cast a spell over the Twin Cities since it was built on one of the highest natural points in Minneapolis in 1913. 

It was decommissioned in 1952, but it is rumored to be the inspiration for Bob Dylan's famous song because he could see it from Dinkytown when he was a student at the University of Minnesota. 

After more than 100 years, Prospect Park's love affair with its local landmark is still magic.