Summary
Attraction Overview
The Seattle Great Wheel lights up Pier 57 and changed the Seattle waterfront forever. With fully heated or air-conditioned gondolas and spectacular views, this Ferris wheel is a great attraction to dazzle out-of-town guests, but fun for locals, too.
Decked out in thousands of LED lights, the wheel can put on a spectacular light show for sports events or holidays. The lights have the ability to swirl, flash, and create various patterns, even celebrating the team colors of the Mariners, Seahawks, or other local teams. Even on non-events, the wheel is always illuminated at night.
One of the best attractions in town, the Seattle Great Wheel offers unparalleled views. While the Space Needle provides elevation, this giant Ferris wheel, perched right on the water, caters to those who appreciate stunning water vistas.
Riders board gondolas accommodating up to eight people, so a smaller group may not have a gondola to themselves; however, there’s ample space for everyone to enjoy the views. The enclosed gondolas are climate-controlled, ensuring a comfortable ride year-round. Views encompass the Puget Sound, Seattle skyline, and surrounding mountains on clear days. On cloudy days, visibility is still decent, but if you have the option, waiting for a clear day is advisable.
At their farthest point, the gondolas extend 40 feet over the water, with some featuring glass-bottomed floors, providing an exhilarating perspective of the Puget Sound beneath.
For an enhanced experience, consider the VIP gondola option. VIP guests have access to a car designed for four, featuring bucket seats, a stereo system, and a glass floor, adding excitement to the already breathtaking views. Additionally, a champagne toast at a nearby restaurant, a souvenir shirt, and front-of-the-line privileges are included in this exclusive package.
Facts About the Seattle Great Wheel
Diameter: 175 feet
Height: 200 feet
Number of gondolas: 42
People per gondola: Up to 8 (depending on crowd size).
Ticket Information
Tickets can be purchased on a walk-up basis or online in advance.
Other Activities on Pier 57
Pier 57 holds an old-timey appeal, featuring a vintage carousel and a game arcade. It houses various shops, including Pirates Plunder, Zongo Gifts, and The Sports Den, alongside a selection of restaurants.
Another highlight of Pier 57 is the ride called Wings over Washington, which opened in mid-2016. If heights aren’t your preference, this simulation ride offers a thrilling experience without going far off the ground and showcases the state in a unique manner.
Moreover, several attractions are located close by, making the Seattle Great Wheel an ideal hub on Seattle’s touristy waterfront. Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, and downtown Seattle are all within a reasonable walking distance.
Opening Date
The Seattle Great Wheel opened on June 29, 2012.
Comparison with Other Ferris Wheels
At 175 feet tall, the Seattle Ferris wheel is smaller than various towering Ferris wheels globally. As of mid-2019, the tallest include the High Roller in Las Vegas at 550 feet, Singapore Flyer at 541 feet, Star of Nanchang at 525 feet, London Eye at 443 feet, and Lihpao Sky Dream at 413 feet.
However, the Seattle Great Wheel proudly stands as the tallest great wheel on the entire West Coast!
What Is the Largest Ferris Wheel in the US?
The largest Ferris wheel in the United States is the High Roller in Las Vegas, Nevada, reaching 550 feet.
Other Famous Ferris Wheels
Giant Ferris wheels can be found worldwide, with some gaining more fame than others. Below is a list of other notable large wheels around the globe:
- London Eye
- Santa Monica Pier
- Navy Pier in Chicago
- Singapore Flyer
- Big-O, Tokyo
- Texas Star, Dallas
- Wonder Wheel, Coney Island
- Cosmo Clock, Yokohama
- Tianjin Eye, China
- Star of Nanchang, China
- Daikanransha, Japan
- Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Japan
- Suzhou Ferris Wheel, China
