Seattle, the Emerald City, is known for its breathtaking skyline, bustling waterfront, and iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Among these notable attractions is the Seattle Great Wheel, a prominent feature on the city’s western edge at Pier 57. This giant Ferris wheel has not only become a popular tourist destination but also a symbol of innovation and entertainment for the locals.
Opened in June 2012, the Seattle Great Wheel stands tall at 175 feet (53.3 meters), making it one of the highest Ferris wheels on the West Coast at the time of its inauguration. Offering unparalleled views of Elliott Bay and the surrounding city, this Ferris wheel has quickly garnered widespread recognition and praise. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride in one of the comfortable gondolas, taking in the stunning vistas while observing the intricate engineering behind this magnificent structure.
In addition to providing a unique vantage point for sightseeing, the Seattle Great Wheel is adorned with more than 500,000 LED lights, illuminating the night sky with vibrant colors and captivating light shows. This mesmerizing display can be seen on weekends and during special events such as holidays and game days, further enhancing the city’s lively atmosphere and providing a memorable experience for both residents and tourists alike.
Seattle Great Wheel
Location
The Seattle Great Wheel is located at Pier 57 on Alaskan Way, overlooking the beautiful Elliott Bay in Seattle, Washington. This giant Ferris wheel provides visitors with breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and the city’s western edge.
Height
Standing at an overall height of 175 feet (53.3 meters), the Seattle Great Wheel was the tallest Ferris wheel on the West Coast of the United States when it opened in June 2012. While not the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, it still offers an impressive ride for guests looking to experience the Seattle skyline from a unique perspective.
Gondolas
The Seattle Great Wheel features a total of 42 climate-controlled gondolas, each seating up to 4 people. These enclosed cabins provide passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable experience no matter the weather conditions.
VIP Gondola
For those looking for a more luxurious ride, the Seattle Great Wheel offers a VIP gondola that comes with:
- Leather bucket seats
- A glass floor
- A stereo system
- Space for up to 4 people
This exclusive gondola provides passengers with the best views and a memorable experience during their time at the Seattle Great Wheel.
Glass Floor
The Seattle Great Wheel features a glass floor in its VIP gondola, providing passengers with a unique and thrilling view of the city and the water below. The combination of the wheel’s height and the clear glass floor enhances the experience, allowing riders to fully appreciate the beauty of their surroundings while in motion.
Tickets and Hours
Standard Tickets
The Seattle Great Wheel offers Standard Tickets for all ages. Pricing for these tickets are as follows:
- Adults: $13
- Seniors (65+): $11
- Children (3-11): $9
- Children (0-2): Free
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket booth located at the entrance of the Ferris Wheel, or you can buy them online for added convenience.
VIP Tickets
For a more luxurious experience, consider upgrading your ride to the VIP Gondola. The VIP Gondola features red leather seats, a glass floor, and accommodates up to 4 passengers. VIP Tickets are priced at $50 per person and are available for purchase at the ticket booth or online.
Hours of Operation
The Seattle Great Wheel operates on a varied schedule. Typically, the hours of operation are:
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Friday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 11:59 pm
- Sunday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Keep in mind that operating hours may change during holidays or special events, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website or contact them at +1-206-623-8607 to confirm the hours of operation for your visit.
Attractions Nearby
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is a must-visit attraction near the Seattle Great Wheel. This bustling marketplace has been a Seattle landmark since 1907 and offers a wide range of unique shops, food stands, and artisanal goods. With over 21,800 reviews, this iconic market is located at 1st Ave & Pike St, just a 5-minute walk from the Seattle Great Wheel. Be sure to check out the fresh seafood, handmade crafts, and the famous fish-throwing tradition while you’re there.
Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium is another fantastic sight to explore, situated on the waterfront at Pier 59. Just a short stroll away from the Great Wheel, the aquarium offers exhibits showcasing the vibrant marine life of the Salish Sea, including otters, seals, and a giant Pacific octopus.
The Seattle Aquarium is also dedicated to marine conservation efforts, making it a great educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Downtown Seattle
After enjoying the views from the Seattle Great Wheel, you’ll be in the perfect location to explore the rest of downtown Seattle. The area offers a variety of attractions beyond the waterfront, including diverse shopping options, art galleries, and historical sites.
Some notable points of interest include Pioneer Square, the Seattle Art Museum, and the Central Library. As you wander the streets of downtown Seattle, you’ll be immersed in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and rich culture.
Space Needle
No trip to Seattle would be complete without visiting the iconic Space Needle. Located in the Seattle Center, the 605-foot tall observation tower provides stunning 360-degree views of the city, the surrounding mountains, and Puget Sound. The Space Needle is easily accessible from the downtown area and offers a one-of-a-kind experience, including the rotating glass floor and open-air glass walls at the observatory.
Don’t miss out on this must-see Seattle attraction.
Pier 57 Experiences
Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar
At Pier 57, one of the highlights is the Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar. The restaurant offers a delicious variety of seafood dishes and a memorable dining experience. With views of the beautiful Puget Sound and the iconic Seattle skyline, the Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar is a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike.
Carousel and Arcade
Pier 57 also houses a classic Carousel and Arcade, perfect for family outings or a fun break during a day of sightseeing. The vintage carousel adds a touch of nostalgia to your visit, while the arcade offers various exciting games and classic favorites for all ages.
LED Light Shows
The Seattle Great Wheel, located on Pier 57, is adorned with over 500,000 LED lights that create mesmerizing light shows. These shows typically occur on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, adding a spectacular visual display to your visit.
The brilliant LED lights illuminate the sky and reflect off the waters of Elliott Bay, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.
Special Events
Pier 57 hosts various special events throughout the year. These events are an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful waterfront location and take advantage of the exciting attractions. During game days, immerse yourself in the city’s energy, even amidst the ongoing pandemic. As the largest observation wheel on the West Coast, the Seattle Great Wheel continuously adds excitement and fun to the Pier 57 experience. Keep an eye on the calendar for upcoming special events and opportunities to make lasting memories.
Visitor Information
For Locals
Seattle’s Great Wheel on Pier 57 offers a fantastic experience for locals wanting to enjoy the views of downtown Seattle and Elliott Bay. The Ferris wheel has 42 climate-controlled gondolas, ensuring a comfortable ride regardless of the weather.
- Location: 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101
- Hours: Varied (check the website for current hours)
As a local, you might consider visiting the Great Wheel during off-peak hours to avoid crowds or check for special offers and discounts that may be available.
For Tourists
If you’re a tourist visiting Seattle, the Great Wheel is a must-see attraction at Pier 57. The Ferris wheel is 175 feet tall and extends 40 feet over Elliott Bay, offering unparalleled views of the city and its surroundings.
When planning your visit, consider these points:
- Cost: Check the website for current ticket prices.
- Distance from other attractions: The Great Wheel is within walking distance of other popular Seattle attractions, such as the Pike Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium.
Travel Planners
For travel planners creating Seattle itineraries for clients, the Pier 57 Ferris Wheel is a popular attraction that cannot be missed. When creating an itinerary, be sure to include:
- The Great Wheel as a must-visit attraction
- Suggested time to allot for the Great Wheel experience
- Nearby attractions such as Pike Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium
Itineraries
As you plan your Seattle visit, consider creating an itinerary that includes the Great Wheel along with other nearby attractions. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a day in the area:
- Morning: Start your day at Pike Place Market, exploring the various vendors and grabbing breakfast at one of the many eateries.
- Mid-morning: Head over to the Seattle Aquarium to learn about marine life and conservation efforts.
- Afternoon: Visit the Great Wheel at Pier 57 and experience breathtaking views of the city.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, such as The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar.
