Navy Pier Ferris Wheel, Observation wheel at Navy Pier, Chicago, United States.
Description
The Navy Pier Ferris Wheel is an observation wheel with 42 enclosed gondolas that lift passengers about 200 feet (60 meters) above Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago. A single rotation takes roughly 15 minutes and provides views of the skyline and shoreline in all directions.
History
The observation wheel opened in 2016 to mark the 100th anniversary of Navy Pier. It replaced an earlier wheel that had operated since 1995.
Culture
The observation wheel draws visitors and locals who want to experience the lake and city together, especially families looking for a shared moment above the crowds. It creates a quiet vantage point in the middle of Navy Pier's busy atmosphere.
Practical
The enclosed gondolas are heated and air-conditioned, making rides comfortable in any season. Visit on clear days or during daylight hours for the clearest views of the city and water.
Did you know?
Each gondola has touchscreens that display information about Chicago landmarks visible during the ride. This helps visitors identify the buildings and neighborhoods they see below them.
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Observation wheels allow the exploration of cities and their surroundings from heights ranging from 25 to 250 meters. These steel structures rotate slowly, giving visitors time to observe monuments, watercourses, and neighborhoods spread at their feet. In London, the London Eye looms over the Thames...
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