The Seattle Great Wheel: Not So Great If You're Prone to Seasickness (But Pretty Great Otherwise)
Ah, Seattle. The Emerald City. Land of grunge music, delicious coffee, and...giant Ferris wheels? Yes, you read that right. Seattle boasts its very own Ferris wheel, The Seattle Great Wheel, and it's not just any Ferris wheel, it's a 53-meter tall titan that reigned supreme as the West Coast's tallest Ferris wheel when it opened in 2012. Take that, California!
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| What is The Seattle Great Wheel |
Not Your Average Carnival Ride (But Maybe a Little Bit)
Now, this isn't your clunky, popcorn-spewing carnival ride (although, where's the fun in that?). The Seattle Great Wheel offers a sophisticated Ferris wheel experience. Imagine 42 climate-controlled gondolas (perfect for Seattle's unpredictable weather) gently gliding you 175 feet above the city for a majestic 12-minute ride. Each gondola comfortably sits up to eight passengers, with the exception of their VIP gondola, which boasts plush red leather seats and a glass floor - because why not add a touch of heart-stopping terror to your sightseeing?
Million Dollar Views (Without Actually Spending a Million Dollars)
The real star of the show here are the views. From your lofty perch, you'll be treated to a 360-degree panorama of Seattle's best bits. Gaze upon the iconic Space Needle, spot the bustling Pike Place Market, and let your eyes wander over the shimmering waters of Elliott Bay. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Rainier in the distance.
But wait, there's more! The Seattle Great Wheel isn't content with just offering stunning views during the day. As twilight descends, the wheel comes alive with over 500,000 LED lights, transforming it into a dazzling spectacle. Catch one of their frequent light shows, or - if you're feeling fancy - book a custom light show for your next big event.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
So, is the Seattle Great Wheel Worth It?
Absolutely! It's a fun, unique way to see the city and capture some unforgettable memories. Whether you're a tourist or a Seattle local, the Great Wheel offers a thrilling (yet perfectly safe) adventure.
Just be sure to:
- Avoid a giant lunch beforehand if you're prone to motion sickness.
- Bring your camera - those views are Instagram gold!
- Hold on tight to your hat (especially if you're rocking the VIP gondola).
FAQ: Conquering the Seattle Great Wheel
How to get tickets?
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue.
How much does it cost?
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Ticket prices vary depending on the season and time of day, but you can expect to pay around $15-$20 for adults.
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How long is the ride?
The ride itself lasts approximately 12 minutes, but you can factor in wait times depending on how busy it is.
Is there parking available?
Tip: Pause if your attention drifts.
Yes, there is paid parking available nearby.
Is the Seattle Great Wheel accessible?
Yes, the Great Wheel is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
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