The Seattle Great Wheel

The Seattle Great Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel located on the waterfront of Seattle, Washington. It was built in 2012 and stands at 175 feet tall, making it one of the tallest Ferris wheels on the west coast of the United States. It is located at 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101. The wheel has 42 fully enclosed and climate-controlled gondolas that can each hold up to eight people.

The Great Wheel offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains. It operates year-round and offers both day and night rides, with the night time rides providing a unique light show experience. The wheel is also equipped with LED lights that can change colors and display patterns, making it a popular spot for special events and celebrations.

In addition to the traditional gondola rides, the Great Wheel also offers special VIP gondolas that feature leather seating, glass floors, and exclusive access to a VIP deck with a bar and restrooms. These gondolas are perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and proposal rides.

The Seattle Great Wheel is located on Pier 57 on the waterfront, making it easily accessible by foot, car, or public transportation. There are also several parking options available nearby. The wheel is surrounded by a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

One of the unique features of the Seattle Great Wheel is the fact that it is environmentally friendly. The wheel is powered by 100% renewable energy, and the gondolas are equipped with energy-efficient lighting and heating systems. The wheel also participates in recycling and waste reduction programs, and the surrounding area has been designed with sustainability in mind.

The Seattle Great Wheel also has a rich history. In the early 1900s, the waterfront was home to the Alweg Monorail, which was the first full-scale commercial monorail system in the world. When the monorail closed in the 1960s, the waterfront fell into disrepair and was largely abandoned. In the 2000s, the city of Seattle began a revitalization project for the area, which included the construction of the Great Wheel as a centerpiece for the new waterfront.

Overall, the Seattle Great Wheel is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. It offers breathtaking views, a unique light show experience, and the VIP gondolas provide a special way to celebrate special occasions. The wheel is also environmentally friendly and located in a vibrant area with plenty of other things to see and do. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the Seattle Great Wheel is a great way to experience the beauty of Seattle from a new perspective.