Capital Wheel at National Harbor

The Capital Wheel is an observation Ferris wheel located at National Harbor, rising 180 feet above the Potomac River waterfront. This iconic attraction provides breathtaking views of the Washington area, showcasing sights like the White House, U.S. Capitol Building, Washington Monument, National Mall, and Arlington National Cemetery. Visitors can experience stunning scenery at any time, though the sunset offers particularly spectacular views.

Since its opening in May 2014, the Capital Wheel has become part of a growing collection of large-scale observation wheels across the globe. Notable cities in the United States featuring similar attractions include Seattle, Niagara Falls, New York, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Internationally, you can find observation wheels in iconic locations such as Paris, London, Brisbane, and Perth in Australia, as well as Cape Town and Johannesburg in South Africa, and Malacca Island in Malaysia.

Riding the Capital Wheel

During your ride, which lasts approximately 12 to 15 minutes, you’ll ascend in one of the Capital Wheel’s 42 climate-controlled gondolas. The VIP gondola, National Harbor One, accommodates four passengers and is equipped with glass floors, wine chillers, a retracting monitor/DVD player, and luxurious leather bucket seats. The remaining 41 gondolas can hold up to eight passengers and boast glass exteriors to enhance the panoramic views. Open year-round, the Capital Wheel draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and can host a variety of events, supported by catering from Wolfgang Puck.

Remember that hours of operation fluctuate by season, so it’s wise to check before your visit.

Kids under 11 can join the Kids Club for $17 + tax and receive a special T-shirt and button, along with access to both the Capital Wheel and Carousel on the same day. Additionally, kids can enjoy complimentary rides on their birthday.

Capital Wheel at Sunset

The Capital Wheel is an ideal spot to capture scenic views of the Potomac River and city skyline at sunset, providing a truly unique experience.

Capital Wheel at Night

At night, a ride on the Capital Wheel transforms into a delightful experience as the attraction is illuminated in a vibrant array of lights, alongside the illustrious Capitol dome and other monuments glimmering in the night sky. This makes for an unforgettable experience for families and friends alike.

View of National Harbor

From the summit of the Capital Wheel, guests are rewarded with stunning views of National Harbor, particularly splendid at nighttime.

The Holidays at the Capital Wheel

During the festive season, Santa Claus makes special appearances at the Capital Wheel, providing an opportunity for guests to take memorable photos before or after their ride.

National Harbor

National Harbor is a vibrant 350-acre waterfront community situated along the Potomac River just south of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge in Prince George’s County, Maryland. It serves as a resort destination highlighting attractions like the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, MGM Resort Casino, Tanger Outlets, numerous hotel accommodations, residential and office spaces, scenic promenades, and a marina brimming with shops and dining options.