25 Fun Things that are 500 Meters long or big: How far is it
Have you ever wondered how far 500 meters is? You can get an idea if you look at some things that are 500 meters long or big. Seeing such items is pretty rare. Only a few objects are exactly this length.
I was curious, so I spent time researching which things were 500 meters (m) long or big. Now, I’ve got 25 examples for you. Some of them are:
- The length of five football fields
- The height of towering skyscrapers
- Massive solar farms.
Let’s now look at all of them in detail.
25 Fascinating Things That Are 500 Meters Long or Big
Here are the things that are 500 meters long or big:
- 5 Football Fields (American)
- University of North Carolina Tower
- Richland Towers Tower Cedar Hill 2
- One World Trade Center
- An Olympic-Sized Track and a Half
- Taipei 101
- American Towers Tower Oklahoma City
- WFTV TV Tower Christmas
- American Towers Tower Cedar Hill
- Shanghai World Financial Center
- Two times the Height of the Golden Gate Bridge
- Twice the length of Westminster Bridge
- Triple the Height of the Singapore Flyer
- 1.5x the height of the Eiffel tower
- 5 City Blocks
- Triple the Height of the Washington Monument
- A Small Dam
- Disney World Parking Lot
- A single row of solar panels in the Noor Solar Complex (Morocco)
- 1.5 aircraft carrier (USS Gerald R. Ford)
- 10 Olympic-sized swimming pools
- 3.3 times the height of BancFirst Tower
- QueenB Television Tower
- Richland Towers in Cedar Hill
- 1.6x The Shard London height.
Now, the details.
5 Football Fields (American)
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Sports and games |
| Material/Composition | Grass or synthetic turf |
| Notable Feature/Fact | A standard field is around 91 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Found in stadiums and sports complexes |
If you line up five American football fields one after another, the total length will be about 500 meters. Each football field is 91 meters from one goal line to the other, so five together nearly match this distance.
Football fields are used for games, practices, and fitness activities. They are common in:
- Schools
- Universities
- Professional sports stadiums.
The fields are carefully maintained for safety and performance.
Note that these fields are essential for athletes, coaches, and fans. People gather to watch games or participate in activities, making them key spaces for sports and community events.
You’ll see football fields in high schools, college campuses, or large stadiums.
University of North Carolina Tower
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Broadcasting and communication |
| Material/Composition | Steel and concrete |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Reaches close to 500 meters in height |
| Real-World Context | Found in North Carolina |
The University of North Carolina Tower stands at almost 500 meters tall. It’s a giant structure designed to help with broadcasting and communication signals in the region. The tower is built using strong materials like steel and reinforced concrete. It must withstand high winds and bad weather to keep communication running smoothly.
This tower is important for sending television, radio, and emergency signals to a large area. It also helps ensure that people can stay informed during storms or other emergencies.
Only a few people, like engineers and technicians, work on the tower. Most people notice it from far away as a landmark in the area.
Richland Towers Tower Cedar Hill 2
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Communication and broadcasting |
| Material/Composition | Steel framework with cables |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Provides a strong signal over a wide area |
| Real-World Context | Located in Cedar Hill, Texas |
The Richland Towers Tower Cedar Hill 2 is one of the tallest structures in Texas. At close to 500 meters, it is part of the broadcasting infrastructure for the Dallas area. This tower is made of strong steel with support cables to keep it stable. It can handle rough weather and still maintain its signal strength.
The main job of the tower is to send out TV and radio signals across a large region. It lets people stay connected to news, entertainment, and information.
One World Trade Center
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Offices and observatory |
| Material/Composition | Steel, glass, and concrete |
| Notable Feature/Fact | 541 meters tall with spire |
| Real-World Context | Located in New York City |
The One World Trade Center in New York City is 541 meters tall, including its spire. Its main structure is slightly shorter than 500 meters, but it’s still an incredible height. This building is a symbol of resilience and strength. It replaced the Twin Towers after 9/11 and has become a central part of the New York skyline.
Inside, the skyscraper has offices, meeting spaces, and an observation deck. The observatory lets visitors see amazing views of the city.
An Olympic-Sized Track and a Half
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Sports and running events |
| Material/Composition | Synthetic rubber material |
| Notable Feature/Fact | A single track is 400 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Found in schools and professional stadiums |
An Olympic-sized track is around 350 meters in total length. If you add half of another track, it is around 500 meters. They provide a smooth and safe surface for athletes to perform their best. These tracks are made for athletic competitions like:
- Running
- Hurdles
- Relays.
Tracks like these are used for training by professional runners and for events like the Olympics or local competitions. In my opinion, they are also great for everyday fitness. That’s why coaches, athletes, and students use these tracks regularly. You can find them olympic-sized tracks at:
- Schools
- Sports centers
- Major stadiums.
Taipei 101
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Offices, shopping, and observatory |
| Material/Composition | Steel and glass |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Stands 508 meters tall |
| Real-World Context | A major landmark in Taipei, Taiwan |
Taipei 101 is a skyscraper that is approximately 500 meters tall, making it one of the tallest buildings in the world. To be exact, it is 508 meters in height. But it’s an iconic structure worth mentioning. This building is a mix of modern engineering and cultural design.
Did you know it was the tallest building globally when it was completed? Even today, it remains a symbol of Taiwan.
Taipei 101 is used for office spaces, luxury shopping, and tourism. Its observation deck provides some of the best views of the city. Tourists, shoppers, and business professionals visit Taipei 101 daily. It is a landmark for both locals and visitors in Taiwan.
American Tower, Oklahoma City
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Broadcasting and communication |
| Material/Composition | Steel framework with support cables |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Nearly 500 meters tall |
| Real-World Context | Provides media and emergency broadcasts |
The American Tower in Oklahoma City is 500 meters tall. It is one of the tallest towers in the region, playing a critical role in communication systems. The tower is made of steel, with sturdy support cables that ensure stability. Its height allows for long-distance communication, making it highly effective for broadcasting.
The American Tower is primarily used for TV and radio transmission. It also supports emergency communication, which is vital during severe weather or disasters.
WFTV TV Tower Christmas
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Broadcasting TV and radio signals |
| Material/Composition | Steel framework |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Part of the broadcasting network in Florida |
| Real-World Context | Serves WFTV TV and other local stations |
The WFTV TV Tower, often called the Christmas Tower, is located in Florida. It is 500 meters tall, and its height helps provide strong broadcast coverage across the region. Built with steel, the tower can operate under various weather conditions.
This tower serves WFTV TV, as well as other communication networks in Florida. It helps keep residents informed through news, weather updates, and emergency broadcasts.
Two Times the Height of the Golden Gate Bridge
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Infrastructure for transportation |
| Material/Composition | Steel suspension structure |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Golden Gate Bridge is 227 meters tall |
| Real-World Context | An iconic bridge in San Francisco |
At 500 meters, you’re looking at twice the height of the Golden Gate Bridge. It is a suspension bridge spanning the San Francisco Bay. It’s made of steel and is designed to handle heavy traffic.
The bridge is primarily used for vehicle traffic, cycling, and walking. It also serves as a vital connection between San Francisco and Marin County.
Twice the Length of Westminster Bridge
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Transportation for vehicles and pedestrians |
| Material/Composition | Stone and reinforced concrete |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Westminster Bridge is 250 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Spans the River Thames in London |
500 meters is double the length of Westminster Bridge, one of London’s most famous landmarks. It connects the Houses of Parliament and other parts of the city. Now, you know it also gives a clear idea of how long 500 meters really is.
Westminster Bridge is constructed from stone and reinforced concrete. Its historic design and vibrant green color make it a great tourist spot. Tourists usually walk across this bridge to enjoy views of the River Thames and landmarks like Big Ben.
Triple the Height of the Singapore Flyer
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Entertainment and tourism |
| Material/Composition | Steel and glass |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Singapore Flyer is 165 meters tall |
| Real-World Context | A major tourist attraction in Singapore |
500 meters is three times the height of the Singapore Flyer. It is a large observation wheel made of steel and glass. It provides panoramic views of Singapore, including Marina Bay and the city skyline.
The main purpose of the Singapore Flyer is to entertain tourists. But the best part is that it also offers a unique city view.
If large measurements fascinate you, learn about trucks that are 200 feet long. It’s another fun way to see just how big vehicles can get.
One and a Half of the Eiffel Tower
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Tourist attraction and cultural symbol |
| Material/Composition | Iron framework |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Eiffel Tower is 330 meters tall |
| Real-World Context | Located in Paris, France |
Remember that the Eiffel Tower stands at 330 meters, so 1.5 times its height is roughly 500 meters. This shows how tall some of the world’s tallest towers and buildings are.
Built in 1889, the Eiffel Tower is made entirely of iron. It was the tallest structure in the world when completed. Today, its primary purpose is tourism. Millions of people visit the Eiffel Tower each year to enjoy its views. You can also dine in its restaurants or simply admire its architecture.
5 City Blocks
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Urban planning and community design |
| Material/Composition | Concrete, asphalt, and building structures |
| Notable Feature/Fact | A city block averages 100 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Common in urban layouts in cities |
In many cities, five city blocks equal 500 meters in length. While block sizes vary depending on the city, an average block is around 100 meters. So, five blocks lined up are a great way to think about this distance.
Keep in mind that city blocks are fundamental parts of urban design. They contain buildings, homes, shops, and offices. The blocks are divided by streets to ensure smooth traffic flow for vehicles and pedestrians.
Triple the Height of the Washington Monument
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Monument to honor George Washington |
| Material/Composition | Marble, granite, and bluestone gneiss |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Washington Monument is 169 meters tall |
| Real-World Context | Located in Washington, D.C., USA |
The Washington Monument stands at 169 meters tall, so tripling its height equals about 507 meters. This is a powerful comparison for understanding how tall 500 meters is. The monument was completed in the 1880s to honor George Washington (the first president of the United States). Its sleek obelisk shape makes it instantly recognizable.
Millions of visitors come to the National Mall each year to see the monument. It is also a gathering point for large events, celebrations, and national ceremonies. Today, it is both a historical site and a symbol of the nation’s founding values.
A Small Dam
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Water storage and flood control |
| Material/Composition | Concrete, earth, and rock fill |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Many dams are around 500 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Found in rivers and reservoirs worldwide |
Small dams are about 500 meters long, depending on:
- The size of the river
- Reservoir they are built to control.
We all know that small dams play an essential role in water management. They are constructed using concrete or earth materials. Their strong designs help control water flow, store water, and even generate hydroelectric power.
Some small dams are also used for other purposes, like:
- Preventing floods
- Supporting agriculture
- Providing renewable energy
- Recreation (such as boating and fishing).
Engineers, environmental scientists, and local governments oversee dam operations.
Disney World Parking Lot
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Parking for Disney World visitors |
| Material/Composition | Asphalt and concrete |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Some parking rows are 500 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Found at Disney World, Orlando, Florida |
Disney World in Orlando, Florida, has some of the largest parking lots in the world. Rows in these lots can stretch to about 500 meters. These parking lots are divided into sections with clear signage. This helps visitors find their cars after a long day at the park.
The primary purpose is to provide ample space for guests driving to Disney World. Disney employees also rely on them for logistics and smooth park operations.
A Single Row of Solar Panels in the Noor Solar Complex (Morocco)
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Renewable energy generation |
| Material/Composition | Photovoltaic panels made of silicon |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Some rows span approximately 500 meters |
| Real-World Context | Part of one of the largest solar farms |
The Noor Solar Complex in Morocco is one of the largest solar farms in the world. Its row of photovoltaic panels measures around 500 meters in length. These solar panels are carefully arranged to capture sunlight efficiently.
Its primary purpose is to produce renewable energy while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This contributes significantly to Morocco’s sustainability goals. Environmental scientists, energy companies, and governments work together to manage such projects.
1.5 Aircraft Carriers (USS Gerald R. Ford)
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Naval operations and defense |
| Material/Composition | Steel hull with advanced technology |
| Notable Feature/Fact | USS Gerald R. Ford is 337 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Operated by the U.S. Navy |
The USS Gerald R. Ford is about 337 meters long. Stacking 1.5 of these carriers equals approximately 500 meters. It stays in the news because it is the U.S. Navy’s largest aircraft carrier.
Aircraft carriers are floating air bases with runways, hangars, and advanced weapon systems. They are important because they support global defense missions. Sailors, pilots, and naval officers operate and maintain these carriers.
Aircraft carriers are used in:
- Military strategy
- Deploying aircraft
- Assisting in humanitarian efforts
- Patrolling international waters.
10 Olympic-Sized Swimming Pools
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Competitive swimming and recreation |
| Material/Composition | Tiled concrete pools filled with water |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Each pool is 50 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Used in sports complexes and Olympic games |
If you love sports, then note that an Olympic swimming pool is 50 meters (m) long. Placing ten of these pools end-to-end tell you how long 500 meters is. These pools are designed to meet international standards for swimming competitions. They are equipped with:
- Lanes
- Diving boards
- Spectator seating.
Athletes, coaches, and swimming enthusiasts regularly use these pools. Their main purpose is to host competitive swimming events, but they are also used for training and leisure activities (like water aerobics).
3.3 Times the Height of the BancFirst Tower
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Office building for businesses |
| Material/Composition | Steel, concrete, and glass |
| Notable Feature/Fact | BancFirst Tower is 152 meters tall |
| Real-World Context | Located in Oklahoma City, USA |
The BancFirst Tower, a prominent skyscraper in Oklahoma City, stands at 152 meters tall. When you multiply its height by 3.3, it reaches approximately 500 meters. Business professionals and visitors interact with this tower daily. It serves as a hub for work and commerce in downtown Oklahoma City.
This tower is an office building used by businesses and organizations. It features a modern design, with its exterior made of steel and glass. That’s why it has a sleek appearance.
QueenB Television Tower
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Broadcasting for TV and radio |
| Material/Composition | Steel with strong support cables |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Stands close to 500 meters |
| Real-World Context | Located in Wisconsin, USA |
The QueenB Television Tower in Wisconsin is another tall broadcasting structure that is 500 meters tall. It serves as a key part of the region’s communication network. Constructed with a steel frame and sturdy support cables, this tower is built to ensure uninterrupted transmission.
The main purpose of The QueenB Television Tower is to transmit TV and radio signals across a wide area. It also supports emergency alerts, helping keep the community informed.
Richland Towers in Cedar Hill
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Communication and broadcasting |
| Material/Composition | Steel and reinforced framework |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Cedar Hill hub includes multiple towers |
| Real-World Context | Found in Cedar Hill, Texas |
Richland Towers in Cedar Hill, Texas, are a group of tall towers, with some close to 500 meters in height. These towers are part of a major broadcasting hub for the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The towers are made of steel and designed with stability in mind. They handle the demands of high-powered transmission and harsh weather conditions.
These towers are used for TV, radio, and communication signals. They provide coverage for millions of people in the Dallas area and surrounding regions.
1.6 times the height of The Shard (London)
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Offices, residences, and observation deck |
| Material/Composition | Glass and steel |
| Notable Feature/Fact | The Shard is 310 meters tall |
| Real-World Context | A famous landmark in London, England |
The Shard in London is 310 meters tall, so multiplying its height by 1.6 brings it close to 500 meters. The Shard is a mixed-use skyscraper. It hosts offices, luxury residences, restaurants, and a public observation deck. Its glass exterior gives it a modern, shimmering appearance.
Its primary purpose is to provide premium spaces for work, living, and tourism. The observation deck offers incredible views of London, making it a popular attraction.
Twice the Length of an Airbus A380
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Passenger and cargo transportation |
| Material/Composition | Aluminum and advanced composites |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Airbus A380 is 240 meters long |
| Real-World Context | Largest passenger plane in the world |
Did you know the Airbus A380 is the world’s largest passenger plane? It’s true. It is about 240 meters long. Two of these planes lined up nose-to-tail would stretch close to 500 meters. This aircraft can carry over 800 passengers. It features two full decks and is known for its spacious cabins.
The A380 is used for long-haul flights between major international hubs. It supports airlines in transporting passengers efficiently (while offering luxurious amenities).
500 Meters of a High-Speed Railway
| Factor | Description |
| Purpose/Use | Fast and efficient transportation |
| Material/Composition | Steel tracks and concrete sleepers |
| Notable Feature/Fact | Bullet trains cover 500 meters in seconds |
| Real-World Context | Found in countries like Japan and China |
500 meters of high-speed railway is a common measure in modern train systems. High-speed trains, like Japan’s Shinkansen or China’s Fuxing, can cover this 500 meter distance in just a few seconds. These railways are built with precision using steel tracks and concrete supports. They allow smooth traveling between major cities.
In fact, their primary purpose is to connect cities quickly. This is crucial in reducing travel time and boosting economic activity. High-speed rail is also an eco-friendly alternative to air travel (for medium distances).
So, now you know 25 surprising things that are 500 meters long or big.
If imagining 500 meters is fun, you will also love knowing how tall 500 feet is.
How far is 500 meters? (Everything to Know)
In short, 500 meters (m) is half a kilometer or about 1,640 feet. It’s equivalent to the length of five American football fields placed end-to-end. This distance is significant enough to measure the height of tall skyscrapers or several city blocks.
How far is 500 meters to walk?
Walking 500 meters takes about 6 to 7 minutes at a moderate pace. This distance is similar to walking from one end of a large shopping mall to the other. It’s an easy and short walk for most people, whether for exercise or getting to a nearby location.
How far is 500 meters in minutes?
At an average walking speed of 5 kilometers per hour, 500 meters takes 6 to 7 minutes to cover. A brisker pace could reduce this time to about 5 minutes, while a leisurely stroll might take around 8 minutes. For runners, it’s typically less than 2 minutes.
How far is 500 meters in feet?
500 meters is equal to approximately 1,640 feet. This measurement is useful in sports, architecture, and construction when visualizing lengths in the imperial system. It’s nearly the length of five football fields or about half the height of the Empire State Building.
500 meters to yards
500 meters converts to roughly 546 yards. This is a common unit in American football and golf. For comparison, a golf hole labeled as “500 yards” is almost the same as 500 meters, showing how the two measurements align closely in everyday contexts.
500 meters to kilometers
500 meters is exactly 0.5 kilometers. It is half a kilometer, which is an easy-to-understand metric distance. This conversion is frequently used in running or walking activities to track short distances in fitness apps and training programs.
500 meters to square feet
500 meters refers to linear distance, not area, so it doesn’t directly convert to square feet. However, if you imagine a space that is 500 meters long and 1 meter wide, the area would be about 5,380 square feet. If both dimensions are 500 meters, it equals 2.7 million square feet.
Final Words
All in all, there are some things that are 500 meters long or big. Knowing about them gives you an idea of how great this length is. Remember these summary points:
- 500 meters equals five football fields or 1,640 feet.
- It’s the height of some of the tallest skyscrapers.
- Walking 500 meters takes about 6–7 minutes.
- It’s used in massive infrastructure like dams and bridges.
- You can even find it in everyday places like parking lots and tracks.
So, go outside and notice how these lengths shape our lives.
